Christ shall be Magnified. Philippians 1:20. “According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.” I imagine being in prison where daily life is reduced to a few basic activities; a person might be tempted not to care much about anyone else or anything else except what they are doing. Oppression and suffering, both mentally and physically, tend to discourage someone and make them more self-centered than ever.
Life or death wasn’t the main concern for the apostle Paul. He cared most that Christ would be magnified and made larger in the minds of those guarding him and observing him speak. He wanted Christ to stand out more in his own life than ever before. He was focused on expecting results and hoped that his daily life and testimony would bring glory to his Lord before everyone he encountered.
When the Holy Spirit works in and through a servant of God, the attention of those around him or her is directed toward our Lord Jesus Christ. Holy boldness means caring about God's glory through what we do or say. Disregard for our comfort, especially when life and death are at stake, can only be genuine as the Spirit of God grants us boldness and insight into the larger picture of God’s dealings in the world, giving purpose to our lives. When that is true in us, we will have confidence that God is in control, and we can live with joy and praise even in the most difficult circumstances. That is when the Holy Spirit can magnify Christ in His servant.
In many places around the world, the Lord Jesus is recognized and revealed as truly God. People hear the Gospel, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and give glory to God. Souls are saved by grace, and Christ is exalted! Then those whom God saves live for Him despite opposition, are sanctified, set apart to serve the living and true God, and await His Son from heaven. His plans begin to be revealed to those around him. Before their skeptical eyes, a noticeable change occurs, and Christ is honored by the faithfulness of those who have been justified freely by God’s grace. New believers learn God's ways and how to live as Christians in a sinful world, growing in grace themselves—and Christ is magnified!
No matter what others say or do, don’t let those who mock, ignore, or reject you because of your faith in Christ and dedication to Him intimidate you. Faithful saints, stay loyal to God. You might face persecution and opposition, but don’t be ashamed of your Lord. Walk before the Lord with dignity, loyalty, and trust in Him, not in man. A consecrated, committed, and brave believer in Christ will remain consistent in their life as the years go by and Christ is magnified!
While others remain silent, this one speaks for God even in tough times. Others may fear disapproval, but this one lives boldly, witnessing for the Lord. They do not compromise; they stay true to God’s Word. As old age nears, a faithful witness remains dependable, and Christ is magnified! So, in my body, day by day, may Christ be magnified! In my motivation and purpose for living—may Christ be magnified! When my death comes and final words are spoken—may Christ be magnified! From birth heritage to the Rapture—may Christ be magnified!