The Benefits of Being in Prison
(Philippians 1:12-14)
Mike Johnson
(12) But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, (13) so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; (14) and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Many think that Paul wrote the book of Philippians during his imprisonment in Rome (Acts 28) when he was subject to house arrest. He was in chains and guarded by a Roman soldier (16, 20). Despite this adverse situation, Paul’s letter to the Philippians is full of joy. The words “joy” or “rejoice” occur seventeen times in this short book. The book’s theme is considered to be in 4:17, where he says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” With this outlook, it is not surprising to see Paul focusing on the positive and even being able to see some benefits of being in prison. Verses 12-14 show how people can do the work of God even though circumstances might be harsh. Consider some lessons.
Bad Can Be Good
In verse 12, Paul said his imprisonment furthered the gospel (“advanced” NIV). How is this possible? It seems the opposite would have happened: preaching the gospel would have been hindered. Being in Rome, however, gave Paul the chance to preach the gospel there. In verse 13, he points out that it became evident to the “whole palace guard” that he was not a criminal but was being punished for his religious beliefs. They saw that Paul was not a typical prisoner.
In 1 Peter 4:14-16, the writer points out the shame of being imprisoned for being an evildoer, a murderer, or a thief. However, there is no shame in suffering for doing what is right. Verse 16 of 1 Peter 4 says, “Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.” Paul was suffering as a Christian. The “whole palace guard” noticed this, which may indicate some conversions from their ranks. In closing this letter, he said, “All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household” (4:22). Some from Caesar’s household were converted.
Courage Can Be Contagious
A second positive from his imprisonment is in verse 14. Paul’s situation caused many saints to become bolder and speak God’s Word without fear. Again, one would think the opposite would have occurred. Seeing Paul in prison might have caused people to stop preaching God’s Word, but it did not.
Christians need to have courage. Besides being how God wants us to be, doing so encourages other Christians to be bold and do the right thing. One courageous act can inspire others. In a group situation, one person standing up for what is right is often all it takes to get others to do the same thing. 1 Corinthians 16:13 says, “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”
Paul obviously would have preferred not being in prison. But in all adversity, there are things for which to be thankful for and for which we can rejoice (1 Thess. 5:16, 18). Today, we must learn to make the best out of adversity. We must use adversity for whatever good that we can. The problem may be sickness, persecution, or loss of loved ones. Whatever the adversity may be, we can always gain from it. Also, like Paul, we should take advantage of all kinds of situations and teach others. Who would have thought that Paul could have turned his difficult situation into an opportunity for good?