I know that many of you who are up in your years may be thinking about the movie Deliverance. Well, that’s not what we are going to talk about this week. We have been talking about the marks of a mature believer, and deliverance is the mark this week.
A mature witness possesses the assurance of a happy ending–that of deliverance. Again, remember Paul’s circumstances: he was in prison, but he was, as always, preaching Christ. No matter his circumstances, he was always preaching Christ; and because he was so faithful to his call, God was honoring his preaching. Tremendous results were occurring: unbelievers from all over were being saved, and believers were being encouraged to step forward and become bolder witnesses for Christ. The result was that everyone throughout all of Rome, believers and non-believers, were talking about Paul, esteeming and holding him ever so highly in their minds. However, some were beginning to show so much attention and support and loyalty to him that some of the local preachers were becoming nervous, jealous, and envious, so they began to speak out against Paul and his ministry.
The point of verse 19 is this: Paul is sure God will save and deliver him from their criticism and opposition. He is sure of God’s help and deliverance because of two things:
1. There was the prayer of those who supported him–both those in Rome and those around the world who were praying for him daily. Note that he was writing to the Philippians, so he knew they would begin to pray for him immediately, and God answered their prayer. Therefore, He knew that God would deliver him from such antagonistic opposition because the Philippians were praying for him even if no one else was.
What a wonderful teaching for a church–a church so strong in the Lord that the answer to its prayers are always answered.
2. The supply of the Holy Spirit would deliver him. Paul knew that the Holy Spirit would supply whatever he needed to get through his circumstances. no matter what our need is or how great our need is, the Holy Spirit will deliver us. Strauss points out why the Holy Spirit has been given to believers, and Paul knew the reasons; therefore, he knew that he would be delivered.
a. The Holy Spirit was given to be our compassion. (John 14:16)
b. The Holy Spirit was given to counsel us. (John 14:26)
c. The Holy Spirit was given to give us courage for witnessing no matter the circumstances. (John 15:26-27)
d. The Holy Spirit was given to put conviction in our lives and ministry. (John 16:7-8)
e. The Holy Spirit was given to share the deep things of God with us. (1 Corinthians 2:9-10)
f. The Holy Spirit was given to pray and intercede for us and to help us pray. (Romans 8:26)
g. The Holy Spirit was given to bear His fruit in us. (Galatians 5:22-23)
h. The Holy Spirit was given to fill us and to put a song and joy in our hearts despite circumstances.
(Ephesians 5:18-19)
i. The Holy Spirit was given to give us assurance that we are children and heirs of God. (Romans 8:16-17)
So always remember that God will never leave you alone. His Spirit is right there and you can have the assurance of Paul and know that God will deliver. You may still have to walk through the trials and problems of this life, but remember that all the trials work together for our good. Take a look at James 1 and know that God is with you in all things. Until next time have a blessed day and love all of you.
Pastor Rob
