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Book of Philippians - Chapter 1 - Verse 15

1:15
Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:

Meaning

This verse from the Bible, specifically from the book of Philippians, highlights the different motivations that can drive individuals to preach about Christ. Some people preach out of envy and strife, seeking personal gain or recognition. They may be jealous of others who are successful in their ministry, and therefore propagate the message of Christ for the wrong reasons. On the other hand, there are those who preach with good will, out of a sincere desire to share the love and salvation of Christ with others. These individuals are driven by a genuine passion for spreading the gospel and serving others selflessly. This verse serves as a reminder to Christians to examine their own motivations and ensure that they are sharing the message of Christ out of pure intentions and a heart of love.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is addressing the various motivations that can drive individuals to preach the gospel. Some preach Christ out of envy and strife, seeking to elevate themselves or tear down others in the process. On the other hand, there are those who proclaim the message of Christ out of pure goodwill, with sincerity and a desire to share the love and truth of Jesus. This contrast highlights the importance of examining our motives when sharing the gospel. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the significance of the heart behind our actions. It challenges believers to reflect on whether their intentions are in line with the selfless love and genuine goodwill that should characterize Christian ministry. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the original Greek terms used in this verse to gain a richer understanding of the nuances and implications of preaching with envy and strife versus preaching with good will.

American Standard Version

Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
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