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Convicted by Paul
“Some proclaim Christ from envy and rivalry but others from goodwill. These proclaim Christ out of love, knowing that I have been put here for the defense of the gospel; the others proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but intending to increase my suffering in my imprisonment. What does it matter? Just this, that Christ is proclaimed in every way whether out of false motives or true, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice."
Philippians 1:15-18
This passage from one of Paul’s letters appeared not too long ago in the readings of the Daily Office. I must admit I was struck by this passage. Is Paul saying that it does not matter how the Gospel is proclaimed or how we worship? These words grated against me as I read them the first time. Scripture can certainly challenge us when we least expect it.
As time went on and I reflected further on why Paul was giving me trouble, I realized it is because I am Episcopalian! Like many priests, I love a good rubric in the prayer book that gives us direction on what to do and when to do it – that is what makes our worship so orderly. Yet, Paul is challenging me not to worry about other churches and traditions – they are proclaiming the Gospel in their own ways. No matter how different or unorderly (I think) in comparison, if the Gospel is being proclaimed, then I should rejoice.
In this time of competition and comparison of churches, denominations and styles of worship, Paul is challenging us to do something different: rejoice. My conviction was in my own limitation of the Holy Spirit. How could I possibly know what God is doing in other places and the seeds that are planted? Judgement was replaced by joy; let all boast of the Gospel and God will see it through.
“O God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only Savior, the Prince of Peace: Give us grace seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy divisions; take away all hatred and prejudice, and whatever else may hinder us from godly union and concord; that, as there is but one Body and one Spirit, one hope of our calling, one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, one God and Father of us all, so we may be all of one heart and of one soul, united in one holy bond of truth and peace, of faith and charity, and may with one mind and one mouth glorify thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
For the Unity of the Church, Book of Common Prayer, p. 818
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