Philippians 1:20
Verse
Context
Paul’s Trials Advance the Gospel
19because I know that through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, my distress will turn out for my deliverance.20I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have complete boldness so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Earnest expectation - He had the most confident expectation that God would stand by him, so that he should be enabled, with the utmost liberty of speech, εν πασῃ παρῥησια, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God; and, should he have the liberty of doing so, he was utterly regardless what the issue might be relative to himself. Whether life or death, was to him perfectly equal, and perfectly indifferent, providing Christ were magnified - his person, nature, doctrine, etc., shown to be, what they really are, most noble, most excellent, most necessary, and most glorious.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
According to my earnest expectation--The Greek expresses, "expectation with uplifted head (Luk 21:28) and outstretched neck." Rom 8:19 is the only other place in the New Testament that the word occurs. TITTMANN says, in both places it implies not mere expectation, but the anxious desire of an anticipated prosperous issue in afflictive circumstances. The subject of his earnest expectation which follows, answers to "my salvation" (Phi 1:19). in nothing I shall be ashamed--in nothing have reason to be ashamed of "my work for God, or His work in me" [ALFORD]. Or, "in nothing be disappointed in my hope, but that I may fully obtain it" [ESTIUS]. So "ashamed" is used in Rom 9:33. all boldness--"all" is opposed to "in nothing," as "boldness" is the opposite to "ashamed." so now also--when "my body" is "in bonds" (Phi 1:17). Christ--not Paul, "shall be magnified." life, or by death--Whatever be the issue, I cannot lose; I must be the gainer by the event. Paul was not omniscient; in the issue of things pertaining to themselves, the apostles underwent the same probation of faith and patience as we.
John Gill Bible Commentary
According to my earnest expectation and my hope,.... These words are so placed as that they may refer both to what goes before and what follows after; and the sense be either that the apostle had earnest expectation and hope, even a strong confidence of his salvation, or deliverance from his confinement; and also of his having an interest in the prayers of the saints, and that hereby a supply of the Spirit would be given him; for as he knew and was sure that his God would supply the wants of others, he had great reason to believe he would supply his own; and especially since he had been told by Christ that his grace was sufficient for him: or as in connection with what follows; he had a full persuasion that he should not be put to shame on any account, that in nothing I shall be ashamed; not of his hope, neither the grace of hope, which makes not ashamed; nor the object of hope, Christ Jesus; nor the thing hoped for, eternal life and happiness, or any of the above things about which this grace was conversant; nor of his reproaches and sufferings for the sake of Christ and his Gospel, which he esteemed as an honour to him, as jewels in his crown, as chains of gold about his neck, and as great riches; nor of the Gospel which he preached, so as to retract and deny it, drop the whole, or conceal any part of it, lay down his profession of it, or cease to preach it: "but" his earnest desire and his firm hope and faith were, that with all boldness, as always; that as he had, so he should continue to use boldness in the exercise of faith at the throne of grace, come with freedom thither, and stand before God with intrepidity, through the blood and righteousness of his Son; and that as he had met with afflictions and sufferings for Christ's sake, with cheerfulness and an undaunted spirit, none of these things had moved him, so he believed he never should; and that as he had all along, throughout the whole course of his ministry, preached the Gospel with plainness, openness, and freedom, without any guise or reserve, and that with an holy courage and boldness in the face of all opposition, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body; for this being Christ's, his great concern was to glorify him in it; and though it was a poor, weak, and crazy body, yet rich treasure being put into this earthen vessel, Christ had been greatly magnified, extolled, and made very high in it; never was there, as the apostle, such a magnifier of Christ, by preaching him in the transcendent glories of his person as the Son of God, in the riches of his grace as Mediator, in all his offices of prophet, priest, and King; and particularly in the justification and salvation of men, where he made him to be all in all. Christ was also magnified by him, by his life and conversation, which influenced by his grace, was in obedience to his will, was directed to his glory, was as became his Gospel, and what adorned his doctrine in all things; and also by enduring such hardships and so great sufferings on his account; the power of Christ was greatly magnified in supporting him under them, and carrying him through them; and as this had been the case ever since he was in the ministry, it being the main thing he had in view, he had a well grounded hope and confidence, that it would ever be so: whether it be by life or by death; that is, should he live longer, should he be delivered from his present confinement, and be spared a little longer among men, he comfortably assured Christ would be magnified by him in his body, and as long as he was in it; for his determination was to preach him and him only, to spend his life in his service, and to seek not his own things, but the things of Christ; or should he be put to death quickly by the order of Nero, he doubted not but Christ would have some glory thereby; he should die calling upon his name with fervency, professing his constant and unshaken faith in him, and sealing the Gospel by his blood, with the greatest cheerfulness.
Philippians 1:20
Paul’s Trials Advance the Gospel
19because I know that through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, my distress will turn out for my deliverance.20I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have complete boldness so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christ Magnified in Our Bodies
By Leonard Ravenhill22K56:35ObediencePSA 33:2ROM 6:11ROM 6:142CO 5:10GAL 2:20PHP 1:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of redeeming the time and not wasting opportunities. He highlights the urgency of spreading the gospel, as there are millions of people who have never heard the message of Christ. The speaker also discusses the passion and dedication of the apostle Paul in preaching, suffering, and praying for the sake of Christ. He emphasizes the need for believers to have the mind of God and to be guided by the Holy Spirit in their lives. The sermon concludes with a call to live a life of holiness and to be devoted to magnifying Christ in both life and death.
Are You Wasting Your Life
By John Piper7.0K45:26PHP 1:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of not wasting one's life and making every moment count for the glory of God. It delves into the significance of treasuring Jesus above all things, embracing suffering, and being willing to sacrifice for the sake of displaying Christ's worth. The unwasted life is described as one that puts Christ on display as supremely valuable in both life and death, showcasing a radical commitment to magnifying Jesus in all circumstances.
Faith Unto Enlargement Through Adversity - Part 5
By T. Austin-Sparks2.6K52:53AdversityGEN 12:1JOS 24:2MAT 6:33PHP 1:20HEB 11:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of responding to God's call and separating oneself from personal interests. The example of Abraham is used to illustrate this point, highlighting how Abraham had to leave his country and sever his personal interests in order to fully follow God. The speaker also emphasizes the significance of patience in our spiritual journey, noting that being kept waiting can reveal our impatience and the need for discipline. The sermon concludes by mentioning the covenant sign of circumcision, which became a central aspect of Abraham's life and a symbol of his faithfulness to God.
Paul's Passion, Preaching, and Praying
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K57:532CO 12:9PHP 1:20PHP 3:8PHP 4:5This sermon delves into the life and mindset of the apostle Paul, emphasizing his unwavering dedication to Christ, his sacrificial love, and his unshakable faith. Paul's example of prioritizing the glory of Christ above all else, even in the face of trials, challenges, and persecutions, serves as a powerful inspiration for believers. His prayer life, passion for souls, and willingness to suffer for the sake of the gospel are highlighted as key aspects of his extraordinary walk with God.
Christ Magnified in Our Bodies by Leonard Ravenhil
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K59:23ROM 8:9ROM 12:1GAL 2:20PHP 1:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life where Christ is magnified in every aspect, whether in our thoughts, emotions, actions, or even in the face of challenges and persecution. It calls for a deep commitment to surrendering to God, presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, and allowing the love of Christ to constrain and motivate us to serve Him wholeheartedly.
Paul's Passion and Preaching - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill1.8K08:35ACT 2:12CO 5:14PHP 1:20This sermon delves into the theme of being constrained by the love of Christ, drawing inspiration from the hymn written by Marishal, emphasizing the fire and life that comes from surrendering to God. It reflects on the passion and vision of early Salvation Army members who blazed with a holy fire, highlighting the need for a renewed Pentecost experience. The focus shifts to Philippians 1:20, where Paul expresses his desire for Christ to be magnified in his body, whether in life or death, showcasing the dedication and sacrifice required in serving God wholeheartedly.
Maintain the Connection - Part 2
By Hans Peter Royer1.7K46:20MAT 6:33JHN 12:25ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 6:15PHP 1:201JN 4:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of hearing the voice of God and being connected with Christ. He emphasizes the need to renew our thinking patterns and let go of our old ways of life. The speaker highlights how Jesus motivated people with love rather than threats, and challenges the audience to examine their own behavior towards their spouses and children. He also mentions the misconception of thinking that selfishness and greed will bring happiness, when in reality, losing our lives for Christ's sake leads to true fulfillment. The sermon concludes with the reminder that although we are born of God, we still need to continually cleanse ourselves in order to remain receptive to God's voice.
Paul's Passion and Preaching - Part 4
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K07:51JHN 14:26ACT 7:22ROM 1:141CO 2:4EPH 5:18PHP 1:20JAS 1:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience over achievements or years lived. It discusses the need for constant spiritual growth and being filled with the Holy Spirit to overflow with His presence. The preacher highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as a gracious guest in our lives, guiding and influencing our thoughts and actions. The sermon also touches on the passion and dedication required in preaching the Gospel, with examples from biblical figures like Moses and John the Baptist.
Expect Conference 2010
By Gary Wilkerson1.0K59:40ConferenceROM 1:16PHP 1:202TH 3:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a strong work ethic and not being idle. He references 2 Thessalonians chapter 3, verses 11-15, which speaks against idleness and encourages believers to work quietly and earn their living. The preacher also addresses the tendency to compare oneself to others and feel ashamed or unqualified for ministry. He reminds listeners that the hope lies in the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the only way of ministering and preaching. The sermon concludes with a reminder that preaching the gospel and operating in its power is the ultimate calling for believers.
Paul Before Agrippa - Part 7
By Joshua Daniel97408:55MAT 10:28MAT 16:24MRK 8:35LUK 9:23ACT 1:8PHP 1:202TI 1:7HEB 12:2REV 12:11This sermon emphasizes the call to radical discipleship and unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel, even in the face of persecution and discomfort. It challenges believers to step out of their comfort zones, be willing to endure hardships for the sake of Christ, and to prioritize the proclamation of the Gospel above personal preferences and safety. The message underscores the need for unconditional discipleship, a strong faith that shakes the powers of the world, and a willingness to follow Christ wholeheartedly, even unto death.
Feel
By John Piper7901:04:51Christian LifeDEU 28:47PSA 37:4PSA 100:22CO 1:24PHP 1:20PHP 4:41TH 5:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prioritizing emotions and affections in the pursuit of maximum joy in God. He acknowledges that he may not have suffered as much as others, but believes his message is biblical. The implications for pastors are to encourage their congregations to pursue joy in God as a lifelong vocation. The speaker also highlights the importance of not lording over the congregation, but working with them for their joy.
For Me to Live Is Christ
By Harold Wildish59538:30ChristPSA 42:1PSA 119:105MAT 6:33ROM 8:28ROM 12:2PHP 1:20JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker begins by recounting a story of a man on a sports field attempting to run a four-minute mile. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of understanding that God sent his son Jesus into the world out of love. The speaker shares a story of a tribe and how a little girl was the one who asked about the messengers of the great spirit. The speaker emphasizes that if one desires a deeper understanding of God, this week could be transformative and provide the secrets found in the Bible to become a strong and beautiful Christian.
Of Meditating on the Future Life
By John Calvin0PSA 73:3ROM 8:362CO 5:2PHP 1:202TH 1:62TI 4:18John Calvin preaches about the three divisions of the chapter, emphasizing the use of the cross to train believers to despise the present life and aspire to the future, describing believers' infirmity in dreading death, and highlighting the importance of longing for eternal life. He stresses the need for believers to maintain gratitude towards God for the present life, recognizing it as a divine blessing designed to promote their salvation. Calvin urges believers to eagerly desire death and the final resurrection, looking forward with joy to being delivered from the evils of this world and entering into the blessed inheritance of eternal life and glory.
The Shadow of Martyrdom
By William MacDonald0Sacrifice for ChristDiscipleshipMAT 10:39MAT 16:25MAT 16:27MRK 8:35LUK 9:24JHN 12:242CO 6:9PHP 1:20William MacDonald emphasizes the profound commitment of true discipleship to Jesus Christ, where life and death become secondary to glorifying the Lord. He reflects on the lives of martyrs like John and Betty Stam and Jim Elliot, who willingly surrendered their lives for the sake of Christ, embodying the principle that losing one's life for Jesus leads to true fulfillment. MacDonald argues that our lives do not belong to us, as they were bought with Christ's blood, and thus we should not cling to them selfishly. He encourages believers to adopt a martyr spirit, living fully for Christ, which ultimately leads to joy and eternal rewards. The sermon concludes with a call to prioritize eternal matters over worldly concerns, echoing the teachings of Jesus on the value of self-sacrifice.
Christ Magnified in My Body 1
By Leonard Ravenhill0Living SacrificeMagnifying ChristPSA 150:4JHN 15:5ROM 6:11ROM 8:1ROM 12:12CO 5:10GAL 2:20PHP 1:20PHP 4:61TH 5:23Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the profound truth that Christ should be magnified in our bodies, regardless of our circumstances, as illustrated by Paul's unwavering faith and joy even in prison. He reflects on the importance of presenting our entire selves as living sacrifices to God, highlighting that true motivation comes from the love of Christ. Ravenhill encourages believers to live in a way that showcases Christ's glory through their actions and attitudes, regardless of trials or tribulations. He asserts that the Christian life is marked by joy and the power of the Spirit, which enables us to overcome sin and live victoriously. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper commitment to allowing Christ to be magnified in every aspect of our lives.
No Cause to Blush
By C.H. Spurgeon0HopeFaithLovePSA 34:5ISA 54:4JHN 15:13ROM 10:11PHP 1:202TI 1:12HEB 11:261PE 3:151JN 4:18REV 21:4C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that believers have no cause to blush for their faith, hope, and love in Christ. He reassures that despite criticism, the Scriptures are without error and that simple faith in Jesus is a mark of honor. Spurgeon highlights the certainty of hope in the Lord's promises, which will culminate in joy and glory when He returns. He also affirms that love for Jesus is never shameful, as true devotion will be recognized and honored, especially in the face of persecution. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, hope, and love without shame.
Allow Me to Fall a Prey to the Wild Beasts
By Ignatius of Antioch0JHN 12:24ROM 12:1GAL 5:13PHP 1:201PE 2:16Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes his willingness to die for God and urges the Churches not to hinder him, desiring to become food for wild beasts to attain God. He sees himself as the wheat of God, being ground by the teeth of wild beasts to be the pure bread of God, wishing for the beasts to become his tomb. Ignatius longs to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ, seeking to be a sacrifice to God through his suffering and eventual freedom in Christ, learning not to desire anything worldly while in bonds for Him.
Leonard Sheldrake
By John Bjorlie0ACT 9:261CO 15:58PHP 1:201TH 5:161TI 3:13HEB 10:23John Bjorlie shares the inspiring life story of Leonard Sheldrake (1885-1952), who faced early hardships losing both parents to tuberculosis at a young age. Despite his religious inclinations and immersion baptism, Leonard struggled with doubts about his conversion until a profound realization of Christ's sacrifice for him. He dedicated his life to serving the Lord, spreading the gospel in various places, and eventually becoming a bold preacher, unafraid to share the message of God's love. Leonard's unwavering faith, prayer life, and commitment to the Lord's work led him to impact many lives and establish a legacy of service and dedication to Christ.
For Our People and for the Cities of Our God
By John Piper02SA 10:11DAN 3:161CO 12:4GAL 1:10EPH 4:1EPH 6:10PHP 1:20John Piper delivers a sermon on the importance of teamwork in ministry, drawing inspiration from the relationship between Joab and Abishai in 2 Samuel 10. He emphasizes six key characteristics of effective team ministry: humility, diversification, mutual helpfulness, strength, benefit to God's people, and surrender to God's sovereign guidance. Piper highlights the need for humility to foster unity, the value of diverse gifts in ministry, the importance of supporting one another, the necessity of drawing strength from God, the goal of benefiting God's people, and the ultimate surrender to God's will in all endeavors.
To Declare Myself a Friend of Christ
By C.H. Spurgeon0Testimony for ChristBoldness in FaithMAT 5:16MAT 10:32MRK 8:38LUK 12:8JHN 15:15ACT 4:20ROM 1:16PHP 1:202TI 1:81PE 3:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of boldly declaring oneself as a friend of Christ, urging Christians to stand firm in their faith even when faced with challenging questions or scrutiny. He reflects on the example of a man who, despite being questioned by the Pharisees, confidently affirmed his relationship with Jesus without hesitation. Spurgeon encourages believers to be unashamed in owning their faith and to respond promptly when challenged about their allegiance to Christ. He calls for a clear and distinct testimony from every Christian, reinforcing the idea that Jesus should be acknowledged as our Savior and Friend.
Objections Answered
By George Cutting02CH 26:16JER 15:19PHP 1:202TI 2:192TI 3:15George Cutting preaches about the importance of aligning our lives with God's Word, emphasizing the need for personal responsibility in correcting our ways according to Scripture. He highlights the necessity of fleeing from sinful desires and pursuing righteousness, faith, love, and peace in fellowship with other believers. Cutting uses examples from the lives of biblical figures like Jeremiah and Saul of Tarsus to illustrate the principle of following God's will above personal preferences or human traditions.
A Wonderful Example of Faith in Adversity
By David Wilkerson0Joy in TrialsFaith in AdversityPHP 1:17PHP 1:20David Wilkerson emphasizes the remarkable faith of Paul while imprisoned in Rome, highlighting how Paul, despite his dire circumstances, chose to focus on magnifying Christ rather than lamenting his situation. Instead of questioning why he was suffering, Paul sought to understand how he could respond in a way that honored God, demonstrating that true joy and purpose can be found even in adversity. His determination to rejoice and proclaim the gospel, regardless of his chains, serves as a powerful example for believers facing their own trials. Wilkerson encourages listeners to adopt a similar attitude of faith and joy, reminding them that their circumstances do not define their ability to glorify God.
How Then Shall We Live?
By Anton Bosch0PSA 8:1PSA 24:7ISA 43:7ROM 2:231CO 6:201CO 10:31PHP 1:201PE 2:12Anton Bosch preaches on the importance of aligning our goals and ambitions with God's purpose, which is to bring glory to Himself. Many Christians are misled into believing that personal happiness should be their highest goal, but this conflicts with God's will. The highest calling for every believer is to glorify God in every aspect of their lives, not just through spiritual activities. Living a life that brings glory to God is crucial, as even unbelievers should be able to see God's glory through our actions.
How to Befriend Strangers
By Ray Comfort0MAT 28:19ACT 1:8PHP 1:202TI 1:71PE 3:15Ray Comfort shares a challenging and intense experience of trying to approach strangers with the Gospel using tracts, highlighting the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones to share our faith, even in the midst of tense and potentially dangerous situations. Despite facing hostility and misunderstanding, Ray remains steadfast in his mission to spread the message of Christ's love and salvation to those who may not have encountered it before.
In His Letter to the Philippians
By T. Austin-Sparks0Joy in ChristThe GospelPHP 1:3PHP 1:7PHP 1:12PHP 1:16PHP 1:20PHP 2:22PHP 4:1PHP 4:3PHP 4:13T. Austin-Sparks explores the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians, emphasizing that even in his imprisonment, Paul remains deeply connected to the gospel, viewing it as a source of immense joy and triumph. The sermon highlights the threefold triumph of Christ, Paul, and the Philippian Christians, showcasing how the gospel transforms lives and fosters a community of love and support. Sparks illustrates that true joy comes from being captivated by Christ, which leads to a life of victory and purpose, transcending personal struggles and sacrifices. He encourages believers to embrace this captivating relationship with Christ, as it is the key to experiencing the fullness of the gospel. Ultimately, the message is a call to recognize the gospel's power in our lives today.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Earnest expectation - He had the most confident expectation that God would stand by him, so that he should be enabled, with the utmost liberty of speech, εν πασῃ παρῥησια, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God; and, should he have the liberty of doing so, he was utterly regardless what the issue might be relative to himself. Whether life or death, was to him perfectly equal, and perfectly indifferent, providing Christ were magnified - his person, nature, doctrine, etc., shown to be, what they really are, most noble, most excellent, most necessary, and most glorious.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
According to my earnest expectation--The Greek expresses, "expectation with uplifted head (Luk 21:28) and outstretched neck." Rom 8:19 is the only other place in the New Testament that the word occurs. TITTMANN says, in both places it implies not mere expectation, but the anxious desire of an anticipated prosperous issue in afflictive circumstances. The subject of his earnest expectation which follows, answers to "my salvation" (Phi 1:19). in nothing I shall be ashamed--in nothing have reason to be ashamed of "my work for God, or His work in me" [ALFORD]. Or, "in nothing be disappointed in my hope, but that I may fully obtain it" [ESTIUS]. So "ashamed" is used in Rom 9:33. all boldness--"all" is opposed to "in nothing," as "boldness" is the opposite to "ashamed." so now also--when "my body" is "in bonds" (Phi 1:17). Christ--not Paul, "shall be magnified." life, or by death--Whatever be the issue, I cannot lose; I must be the gainer by the event. Paul was not omniscient; in the issue of things pertaining to themselves, the apostles underwent the same probation of faith and patience as we.
John Gill Bible Commentary
According to my earnest expectation and my hope,.... These words are so placed as that they may refer both to what goes before and what follows after; and the sense be either that the apostle had earnest expectation and hope, even a strong confidence of his salvation, or deliverance from his confinement; and also of his having an interest in the prayers of the saints, and that hereby a supply of the Spirit would be given him; for as he knew and was sure that his God would supply the wants of others, he had great reason to believe he would supply his own; and especially since he had been told by Christ that his grace was sufficient for him: or as in connection with what follows; he had a full persuasion that he should not be put to shame on any account, that in nothing I shall be ashamed; not of his hope, neither the grace of hope, which makes not ashamed; nor the object of hope, Christ Jesus; nor the thing hoped for, eternal life and happiness, or any of the above things about which this grace was conversant; nor of his reproaches and sufferings for the sake of Christ and his Gospel, which he esteemed as an honour to him, as jewels in his crown, as chains of gold about his neck, and as great riches; nor of the Gospel which he preached, so as to retract and deny it, drop the whole, or conceal any part of it, lay down his profession of it, or cease to preach it: "but" his earnest desire and his firm hope and faith were, that with all boldness, as always; that as he had, so he should continue to use boldness in the exercise of faith at the throne of grace, come with freedom thither, and stand before God with intrepidity, through the blood and righteousness of his Son; and that as he had met with afflictions and sufferings for Christ's sake, with cheerfulness and an undaunted spirit, none of these things had moved him, so he believed he never should; and that as he had all along, throughout the whole course of his ministry, preached the Gospel with plainness, openness, and freedom, without any guise or reserve, and that with an holy courage and boldness in the face of all opposition, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body; for this being Christ's, his great concern was to glorify him in it; and though it was a poor, weak, and crazy body, yet rich treasure being put into this earthen vessel, Christ had been greatly magnified, extolled, and made very high in it; never was there, as the apostle, such a magnifier of Christ, by preaching him in the transcendent glories of his person as the Son of God, in the riches of his grace as Mediator, in all his offices of prophet, priest, and King; and particularly in the justification and salvation of men, where he made him to be all in all. Christ was also magnified by him, by his life and conversation, which influenced by his grace, was in obedience to his will, was directed to his glory, was as became his Gospel, and what adorned his doctrine in all things; and also by enduring such hardships and so great sufferings on his account; the power of Christ was greatly magnified in supporting him under them, and carrying him through them; and as this had been the case ever since he was in the ministry, it being the main thing he had in view, he had a well grounded hope and confidence, that it would ever be so: whether it be by life or by death; that is, should he live longer, should he be delivered from his present confinement, and be spared a little longer among men, he comfortably assured Christ would be magnified by him in his body, and as long as he was in it; for his determination was to preach him and him only, to spend his life in his service, and to seek not his own things, but the things of Christ; or should he be put to death quickly by the order of Nero, he doubted not but Christ would have some glory thereby; he should die calling upon his name with fervency, professing his constant and unshaken faith in him, and sealing the Gospel by his blood, with the greatest cheerfulness.