“But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith,”-{Phil 1:23-25}
The word “DEPART” was used of an army “to break up camp,” by pulling up the pens, of a tent so they could begin their march. Also, of a ship that had its ropes “loosed to untie,…unloose” so the ship was loosed from that which held it back, be it ropes or anchor and free to set sail and fulfill its purpose! It was also used as a political word to release a “prisoner.” Paul’s “DESIRE” was to “Depart” and be with Christ and he was caught in between that “desire” and his desire to remain and be a help to others! What a beautiful picture of his heart from a difficult place where he was imprisoned, “shut in” but his heart’s desire was to be with Christ but also his desire to remain in order to Serve and benefit OTHERS, specifically!
The word “BETTER” means The highest rank. We often use words such as “good, better, the best” to describe the ascension of something. So here, the words speaks of that which is better than all else. It is THE Best, the Most Prominent, Superior…- to Be WITH The Lord Jesus Christ!
1- This is the Christian’s – DESIRE– “To Depart…” 2- This is the Christian’s– DESTINATION– “To Be WITH Christ.” 3- This is The Christian’s – DILEMMA– “I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary FOR YOU that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,”-{Phil 1:23-25}… His desire to be WITH the LORD Jesus…AND YET his desire to remain “For” the benefit of the believers spiritual “progress.” He was OTHERS conscious and even in the hard and difficult place he found himself in, his concern was OTHERS. 4- This Is The Christian’s – DEPOSIT – Their Life spent on and for Others Spiritual Growth. “It is more Vital for YOUR SAKE That I Remain in the body…For YOUR Progress of Joy In The Faith.” He was selfless, he was a servant, seeking the spiritual welfare of other. He was concerned and cared for them and their spiritual development in their faith and joy. Where faith is growing so too does joy. He was depositing his life into them specifically for heir faith to grow and also their joy!
Helping them in Growing in their dependence, devotion and delight in the LORD!
He was specific in knowing what his purpose was for his life in regards helping the believers. May you and I also, spend our lives for Jesus sake depositing, investing our lives for the spiritual growth, “progress” of other believers faith and joy!