The text is:

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 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, So that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me. (Phil 1:20-26, NIV)

From the Sermon:

St. Paul anticipates death. He’s in prison and doesn’t know what will happen to him. But he is ready for death. All that he wants is for Christ to be exalted in his death. He says, “do die is gain” and “to depart and be with Christ is better by far.” That confidence is what exults Jesus, that is makes Jesus the most important thing. Paul is confident, not because he is strong, but because of all that Jesus has done for him. Jesus life, death and resurrection give Paul to confidence to know that death isn’t the end for him.

Labels: Sermon, Worship