A Call to Live…

tagged: Bible, Bible Study, Dave Samples, Devotions

Posted by Dave Samples in Bible & Theology

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (v21). How many times have we heard this verse quoted as an admonition to courageously embrace death? I’ve often quoted this verse at funerals in an attempt to make death seem more appealing to those of us who fear it so often. Some time back, when I was working through some dark and despairing days, this text came alive to me in a very unexpected way. An enlightening clue to Paul’s meaning is hidden in his very next statement:

“but if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me;” (v22). My Greek study revealed an amazing possibility. “Fruitful labor” translated literally would read, “fruit of my labor”. Perhaps instead of meaning that his life would continue to produce “good fruit”, Paul is saying that his continued life would produce more of this kind of fruit, which is in fact, suffering! Is it possible that Paul is writing out of an emotion of deep despair and pain, and therefore death is very appealing to him? I believe that it is likely. It doesn’t mean that Paul is suicidal but it does mean that the pressure of suffering is immense and the release of death is to be preferred.

” . . . and I do not know which to choose.” (v22). Note that Paul is not convinced in his mind which course he will choose.

“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” (v22-24). As Paul comes to grips with his decision, he declares that it would be in his best interest to go on and be with Christ. “Depart” is word picture that envisions untying a boat from the dock. It’s not only “better” to go…it is not only “much better” to go…but it is “very much better” to go! And yet, Paul recognizes the necessity of living–not for his benefit but rather for the church.

“Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again” (v25-26). Paul chooses life for two reasons: for the progress of the church, and for the joy of the church!

It is true that for many of us we need to be willing to let go of the enticements of this life and to embrace death. But it is also true that for those who are suffering and dying inside–those who despair of living–there is a call to live! “To live is Christ (suffering) and to die is, of course, much better . . . however, I will choose to remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy”.

Zach says:

January 15, 2009 at 8:28 am

Dave,

Thank you for your post. I want to ask you a question related to this post and one that I have been pondering lately and would like your input. For the follower of Jesus, is death our friend or enemy? It seems Scripture paints it as both from time to time, and would like to get your understanding of it. Thanks.

Dave Miller says:

January 15, 2009 at 10:26 am

Isn’t it interesting how we pick and choose from scripture. Philippians 3:10 says, “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection.” Great truth, but incomplete if we do not finish the sentence. “…and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.”

We want Christ, and his power, but we do not want to lay down our lives as living sacrifices or embrace suffering as Jesus did.

Powerful thoughts, Dave (you, not me)

Dave Samples says:

January 15, 2009 at 3:23 pm

Zach: Death is personified in scripture as the enemy and as the end of life in this world. People fear death because it is the unknown. Those without the hope of the resurrection may not have any concept of life beyond this world. They perceive that death is final. The Christian, of course, has no need to fear death since the resurrection power of Jesus is at work. Maybe we need to think of death in terms of effect. Death for the Christian is simply passing from this world of suffering and pain into a perfect world where there are no tears. Death for the believer is a friend since it produces a wonderful effect. Those without Christ of course experience a much different effect as death transports souls from this life into a life of eternal judgement apart from Christ. Thus, death is the enemy. I would encourage others to chime in and fill in my rather sketchy answer to your question.

Dave: Amen, brother!