Christ - Magnified In My Body (Phil. 1:20)

by R. Hyland, Rhyl, N. Wales | Category: General | Jul 1989

The driving ambition which was so evident in Paul's life undoubtedly stemmed from the impact of his personal encounter with the Lord Jesus on the Damascus road. Writing later of the indelible effect it had on his life he says, "Christ liveth in me" (Gal. 2:20). The concept is sublime yet true; the possibility as assured for us as it was for him, but only if the love of Christ grips us as it gripped him!

In what way was Christ magnified in Paul's body? It was not, of course, that Paul's life made Christ intrinsically greater. That could never be, for He is "far above all rule and authority in this world ... and that which is to come" (Eph. 1:21,23). It could only be, we suggest, in a comparative sense, that so much of Christ was seen in his life that there was very little room for self. What if that could be truly said, as it should be, of me and you! For Paul, Christian living was not some wistful ideal to be dreamed about, although never realized, but a down to earth joyful experience, his whole life occupied with one pursuit, "the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord" (3:8); hence his commitment, contentment and fulfilment: living for Christ wholly satisfied him, "for to me to live is Christ" (1:21). Let us also "make it our aim to be well-pleasing unto Him" (2 Cor. 5:9).

R. Hyland, Rhyl, N. Wales | Jul 1989
General