First Concern

By Kevin Baird

Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.
Philippians 1:15-16

It is easy to get confused with all the complexities of life. Paul keeps the main concern for the Christian life in clear focus. In this case it is the defense of the good news. His first concern is that the truth about Jesus is clearly shared, preached, and proclaimed.
He is even content to let people disparage him, as long as they are teaching the truth. Those who love and support him are an encouragement because they affirm that God has him right where he wants him and for the same purpose, to preach and defend the gospel.

Keeping the first concerns of the core truth of the gospel must be what we always return to as Christians. We can work through more peripheral theological, personality, and structural issues in the church, but we must be steadfast in the defense of the gospel and the regular proclamation of Christ. This is job one. This is of first concern for all us.  

Father of Grace,
Help us to understand that we are put here to share the good news about Jesus that all need to hear. Help us to return again and again to the wonder and power of this message as our first concern. Let your peace reign among us as we hold to this truth. For the glory of Christ, by the power of the Spirit, so that you receive all our praise. Amen