Thursday 8 August 2024

Psalm 39

Background
Today's Bible passage follows on from yesterday's, and Paul’s rejoicing continues unabated. Having outlined his trust that God is at work despite (or even because of) apparent adversity, he now shares more deeply his understanding of the way in which God is at work through him and his attitude to that.

The Greek word translated by the NRSV as ‘deliverance’ (sōtērian) in verse 19, is more often rendered ‘salvation’ in the New Testament, so Paul may not be expecting physical release from imprisonment. Throughout this passage it is very striking that Christ, and the exaltation of Christ, come first. Whether this happens through Paul’s death or through his continued life seems immaterial to the apostle. 

In the Hebrew scriptures, the phrase ‘be put to shame’ (v. 20) can be associated with death and that may have been the understanding of parts of the Early Church. Here Paul seems to be saying that neither his death nor his continued life need bring shame, both can bring about exaltation for Christ. So he airs both sides of a debate he is having with himself: is it better for him to die or to live? He can see advantages on both sides; the advantage in favour of living being chiefly for the Philippians, rather than for himself. We might smile ruefully at Paul’s apparent lack of humility here, but perhaps this is simply his utter conviction that he has been called by God to bring a message to the Gentiles, and fulfilling that is more important than his own desire to be fully united with Christ through death. It is clear from the way in which Paul writes that he has no fear of death – it too is a means of exalting Christ.

If that is Paul’s side of the commitment, the Philippians must recognise and live up to their part. They must live in a manner that is worthy of the gospel, by standing firm in unity and solidarity with each other.

Such integrity and zeal may well lead to suffering – Paul knows that for himself and wants these young Christians to understand it too. To suffer for Christ, he repeats, is not a shame or a punishment, but evidence of true faith and a privilege.

To Ponder:

• Reflect on Paul’s claim that the exaltation of Christ comes first in his life (or death). Can you join him in that sentiment?
• Do you feel, like Paul, that you have a clear mission or purpose in life? How would you describe it?
• What is your response to adversity or suffering as a Christian? How does Paul’s writing here help you to put that into context in your own life?

Prayer
Lord, let me know my end, and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. And now, O Lord, what do I wait for? My hope is in you. (Psalm 39:4, 7)

Bible notes author: Jill Baker
Jill is glad to be part of the small Methodist Church in Scotland. She is a local preacher and tutor in the Strathclyde Circuit, and lives in Glasgow.