Now a word as to Philippians. Paul is writing to the saints at Philippi from prison an ambassador bound with a chain. He, as we all know, had moved in service amongst the saints in the fullest way, more than any other servant or apostle of his day. Now he is in prison, the bondman of Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, he may have reflected in prison over the Spirit’s voice to him when moving up to Jerusalem, also the known feelings of the brethren as to it. But the Scripture read is full of the greatest encouragement that, even in these restricted circumstances Paul says, “But, I would have you know brethren, that the circumstances in which I am have turned out rather to the furtherance of the glad tidings.” Again in 2 Timothy 2: 9 he says, ”in which I suffer even unto bonds as an evil-doer but the word of God is not bound.” Therefore, we are to recognize with Paul that no external limitation can hamper or hinder the development and prosperity of the work of God.
At the end of the book of the Acts it is stated that Paul remained two whole years in Rome “in his own hired lodging, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ, with all freedom unhinderedly.” We may feel very concerned that those who may be specially used of the Lord are not now able to move about as heretofore, but any movement on our side to interfere with the limitations the Lord is permitting may have very serious consequences.
(Arthur House, Auckland, N.Z., 1941 “Words of Grace and Comfort” Suggested by an American subscriber)
Golden Nugget Number 295
Golden Nuggets are published by Saville Street Distribution, Venture, Princes Esplanade, Walton-on-the-Naze, CO14 8QD UK
