The impact of Paul's leadership did not cease just because he was in a difficult situation. His prison experience only fueled his passion for the success of those still engaged in battle. Rather than expecting them to feel sorry for him he desired that their resolve would be strengthened. His guidelines in Philippians 1:27-30 for their success need to be well noted by us as we daily resist the enemy.
Paul was concerned that believers would be like soldiers staying at their post as the battle raged on. He tells us to "stand fast in one spirit and with one mind." Paul knew that if our heart and resolve are worn down the enemy would have victory. He also understood the importance of relationships. No doubt he longed for the presence of fellow believers as he sat alone in prison. He reminds us who are still in the battle to be "striving together for the faith of the gospel." John Donne's assertion that "No man is an island" fully applies. We need one another.
Paul gave two strategies to help believers experience victory. First, he advises that we should not be "in any way terrified by your adversaries." According to John MacArthur such fearlessness confirms in the heart of the enemy that he faces defeat at God's hand. To us believers it is confirmation of "salvation, and that from God." Secondly, Paul reminds us that our calling in Christ includes "not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake." No one is willing to suffer uselessly, but when their is a good cause suffering is empowering.
While Paul's name is not listed in the hall of faith in Hebrews 11, he is one of the "great cloud of witnesses" of Hebrews 12:1. We must run the race enduring whatever may come just as Christ endured the cross for us. The battle has been passed on to us. Let us respond as Paul did and in so doing motivate still others who will follow us.
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