Living Boldly for Christ: Life, Death, and Gain
Summary
In reflecting on the lives of William Tyndale and David MacDonald, we are reminded of the profound call to live a life fully devoted to Christ, even in the face of potential martyrdom. Tyndale's unwavering commitment to translating the Bible into English, despite the threat of death, and MacDonald's dedication to sharing the gospel in dangerous territories, exemplify a life lived with the conviction that "to live is Christ and to die is gain." These stories challenge us to consider what it means to live a life where Christ is our ultimate gain, whether in life or death.
The Apostle Paul's words in Philippians 1:18-26 serve as a powerful reminder of the courage and boldness required to honor Christ in our bodies, regardless of the circumstances. Paul, writing from prison, expresses his desire for Christ to be exalted in his life, whether through continued ministry or through death. His prayer for courage and boldness in the presence of high-ranking officials underscores the need for the Holy Spirit's empowerment in our lives.
As we reflect on these examples, we are called to examine our own lives and the work God has called us to do. We must define what is non-negotiable in our lives, understanding that true gain is found in living for Christ. This passage challenges us to be prepared for whatever God may call us to, whether it be a life of service, mission work, or even martyrdom. It also encourages us to consider how we approach death, striving to reflect Christ's love and grace even in our final moments.
Ultimately, this message is a call to live with the conviction that Christ is our gain, both in life and in death. It is a reminder to pray for the Holy Spirit's help in living boldly for Christ, ensuring that our lives and deaths honor Him.
Key Takeaways:
- Conviction and Calling: William Tyndale and David MacDonald exemplify lives lived with unwavering conviction to their calling, even at the cost of their lives. Their stories challenge us to define what God has called us to do and to hold fast to it, regardless of the consequences. [02:31]
- Courage in the Face of Adversity: The Apostle Paul's prayer for courage and boldness in Philippians 1:20 highlights the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit to speak boldly for Christ, especially in challenging situations. This serves as a reminder that we cannot do this on our own and must seek divine help. [08:34]
- Living for Christ: The phrase "to live is Christ and to die is gain" encapsulates the essence of a life fully devoted to Christ. It challenges us to view our lives as opportunities for fruitful labor and to see death as a gain because it brings us closer to Christ. [12:49]
- Defining Non-Negotiables: Understanding what is non-negotiable in our lives helps us remain steadfast in our calling, even in the face of death or suffering. This clarity allows us to live with purpose and conviction, knowing that our lives are centered on Christ. [23:52]
- Approaching Death with Grace: Reflecting on how we approach death, we are encouraged to emulate Christ's love and grace, even in our final moments. This challenges us to consider how we can honor Christ in our deaths, just as we strive to do in our lives. [25:08]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [02:31] - The Story of William Tyndale
- [03:33] - David MacDonald's Mission
- [04:53] - Embracing the Martyr's Prayer
- [07:03] - Paul's Dilemma: Life or Death
- [08:34] - The Power of Courage
- [10:36] - Paul's Boldness Before King Agrippa
- [12:49] - To Live is Christ, To Die is Gain
- [14:32] - Fruitful Labor and Joy in Faith
- [16:32] - Surprised by Joy
- [17:54] - Departing to Be with Christ
- [22:23] - Preparing for Martyrdom
- [23:52] - Defining Our Calling
- [25:08] - Dying Like Christ
- [27:50] - Praying for the Holy Spirit's Help
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Philippians 1:18-26
Observation Questions:
1. What was William Tyndale's core conviction that led to his martyrdom, and how did it conflict with the church's authority at the time? [02:31]
2. How did David MacDonald's mission work in North Africa and Iraq exemplify his commitment to sharing the gospel, even in dangerous situations? [03:33]
3. In Philippians 1:20, what does Paul express as his eager expectation and hope while he is in prison? [08:34]
4. How does Paul describe his dilemma between life and death in Philippians 1:21-23, and what does he consider as gain? [12:49]
Interpretation Questions:
1. How do the stories of William Tyndale and David MacDonald illustrate the concept of living with the conviction that "to live is Christ and to die is gain"? [04:53]
2. What role does the Holy Spirit play in empowering believers to speak boldly for Christ, according to Paul's prayer in Philippians 1:20? [08:34]
3. How does Paul's understanding of fruitful labor and joy in faith influence his perspective on life and ministry? [14:32]
4. In what ways does the sermon challenge believers to define their non-negotiables in life, and how does this relate to their calling? [23:52]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own life: What is one non-negotiable calling or conviction that you believe God has placed on your heart? How can you hold fast to it, even in the face of adversity? [23:52]
2. Consider a situation where you might need courage to speak about your faith. How can you rely on the Holy Spirit for boldness in that moment? [08:34]
3. How do you currently view death in relation to your faith? What steps can you take to approach it with the grace and love of Christ, as discussed in the sermon? [25:08]
4. Identify a specific area in your life where you can live more fully for Christ. What practical changes can you make to ensure that your life reflects the conviction that "to live is Christ"? [12:49]
5. How can you support and encourage others in your community to live out their calling with courage and conviction, as exemplified by Tyndale and MacDonald? [04:53]
6. Think about a time when you felt ashamed or hesitant to share your faith. What can you learn from Paul's prayer for courage, and how can you apply it to future situations? [08:34]
7. In what ways can you cultivate a mindset of joy and fruitful labor in your daily life, as Paul describes in Philippians 1:22-26? [14:32]
Devotional
Day 1: Unwavering Conviction in Our Calling
In the lives of William Tyndale and David MacDonald, we see a profound example of unwavering conviction to their calling, even at the cost of their lives. Tyndale's dedication to translating the Bible into English, despite the threat of death, and MacDonald's commitment to sharing the gospel in dangerous territories, challenge us to define what God has called us to do and to hold fast to it, regardless of the consequences. Their stories remind us that living a life fully devoted to Christ may require sacrifices, but it is a life of profound purpose and fulfillment. We are encouraged to reflect on our own lives and consider what God has uniquely called us to do, understanding that true gain is found in living for Christ. [02:31]
Acts 20:24 (ESV): "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God."
Reflection: What is one specific calling or purpose you feel God has placed on your heart? How can you take a step today to pursue it with unwavering conviction, even if it requires sacrifice?
Day 2: Courage Empowered by the Holy Spirit
The Apostle Paul's prayer for courage and boldness in Philippians 1:20 highlights the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit to speak boldly for Christ, especially in challenging situations. Paul, writing from prison, expresses his desire for Christ to be exalted in his life, whether through continued ministry or through death. His example serves as a reminder that we cannot do this on our own and must seek divine help. The courage to honor Christ in our bodies, regardless of the circumstances, is a gift from the Holy Spirit, empowering us to stand firm in our faith and witness. [08:34]
2 Timothy 1:7-8 (ESV): "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's courage to speak boldly for Christ? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to empower you in this area today?
Day 3: Living with Christ as Our Ultimate Gain
The phrase "to live is Christ and to die is gain" encapsulates the essence of a life fully devoted to Christ. It challenges us to view our lives as opportunities for fruitful labor and to see death as a gain because it brings us closer to Christ. This perspective shifts our focus from earthly concerns to eternal significance, encouraging us to live with purpose and joy in our faith. By embracing this mindset, we can find contentment and fulfillment in both life and death, knowing that our ultimate gain is found in Christ alone. [12:49]
Colossians 3:3-4 (ESV): "For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory."
Reflection: How can you shift your perspective today to see your life as an opportunity for fruitful labor for Christ? What practical steps can you take to live with the mindset that "to live is Christ and to die is gain"?
Day 4: Defining Our Non-Negotiables
Understanding what is non-negotiable in our lives helps us remain steadfast in our calling, even in the face of death or suffering. This clarity allows us to live with purpose and conviction, knowing that our lives are centered on Christ. By defining our non-negotiables, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence, holding fast to our faith and values. This process requires introspection and prayer, seeking God's guidance to discern what truly matters and aligning our lives accordingly. [23:52]
Hebrews 10:23 (ESV): "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful."
Reflection: What are the non-negotiables in your life that you are committed to upholding, regardless of the circumstances? How can you ensure that these core values are reflected in your daily decisions and actions?
Day 5: Approaching Death with Grace
Reflecting on how we approach death, we are encouraged to emulate Christ's love and grace, even in our final moments. This challenges us to consider how we can honor Christ in our deaths, just as we strive to do in our lives. By approaching death with grace, we bear witness to the hope and peace found in Christ, leaving a lasting legacy of faith for those around us. This perspective invites us to live each day with the end in mind, ensuring that our lives and deaths reflect the love and grace of Christ. [25:08]
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV): "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen."
Reflection: How can you begin to approach the concept of death with grace and peace, trusting in the hope of Christ? What steps can you take today to ensure that your life and eventual death reflect Christ's love and grace?
Quotes
David was less afraid of dying than he was of not living his life, and life he lived was the life of Christ. [00:04:22] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
The definition of martyr is a person who willingly suffers death rather than renounce their religion. Or from Todd's dictionary, a martyr is a person who could easily avoid death if they just stopped doing what they knew God had called them to do. [00:05:24] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is by by eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage, now as always, Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death, for to me to live is Christ and to die is gain. [00:07:03] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Another way that this text challenges us is it just challenges us in how we die. Again, a few of us in this room may be called to be martyrs, but every one of us in the room is going to die. And Paul and Stephen and others, they wanted to be like Christ in their death. [00:25:08] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
I'm struck by the fact that the Apostle Paul prays for this. I mean, this is the guy who took three mission trips, started churches all across the region. You read those stories. He was beaten, stoned, run out of town, all the stuff. He's constantly in prison. He's constantly before high -ranking officials and having to give an account. You would think that Paul would be able to do this without a second breath, right? This is just who he is. He's courageous. He's bold. [00:27:20] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
What a great prayer to say, Lord, when the moment comes by the power of your Holy Spirit, I want to honor Christ in my body. I don't want to be ashamed at how I handled that moment. I want to boldly speak. I want to clearly speak about Jesus, and it doesn't matter if it's before a high -ranking official or a stranger or a family member, but in that moment, I want to handle that moment. [00:28:53] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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