Selfish Ambition?

Good Morning,

Philippians 1:15-18 (NIV)
It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

First, I have to admit what may very well be a fault in me. There have been many times when I've flipped through the channels on TV and have seen various "Evangelists" preaching, singing, and presenting what looks like a variety show. They are dressed "to the nines" as the old saw goes, and wear a great deal of gold, diamonds, and other jewelry. And, all the while, there is an 800 number going across the screen asking for "donations" to keep the ministry going. Now, here's my fault, when I see this, the first thing that crosses my mind is, "Why don't these folks sell off some of their clothes, jewelry, cars, and mansions in order to help fund their evangelistic efforts?" You see, I'm being critical and that is probably a fault. But, my human mind just cannot grasp the fact that there are those getting wealthy...and then wealthier...at the cost of believers who are not so fortunate.

Then, this morning, Paul reminds me of a very important fact. "But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached." So, if I'm to believe that Paul is being truthful in what he wrote (and I do) then, I should be as he was and be joyful in this fact. After all, he knew...as many of us do...that there are those who preach the Gospel message for their own gain. HOWEVER, he was able to say, "And because of this I rejoice," that the message is being put out there.

So, I would say to all of us, especially those who feel, well, angry I guess, at those who preach the Gospel for gain, I would say, let us rejoice at the fact that there are those who will hear the message and come to know Jesus Christ. That doesn't mean that we have to support those folks who are getting ridiculously wealthy, of course, but we should rejoice in the fact that the Gospel is being preached. In the final analysis, these folks will have to face the Lord at the judgement and answer for their actions. It's hard for me, but I've got to let how I feel go and just leave it to God.

And, I've got to learn to simply rejoice at the fact that God's salvation message is being put out there, no matter by whom.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David