Read: Philippians 1:19-26
For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. . . . My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. (vv. 21, 23)
As Paul thought through his circumstances and the possible results of his trial, his perspective was not restricted to time-bound outcomes. Paul’s reading glasses may have been looking at the door of his prison house, but his distance lenses were looking at the door of heaven.
When he writes of his “deliverance” (v. 19), the Greek word he used is soterian, which is most often translated as “salvation.” Paul understood his personal salvation as “deliverance”—deliverance from sin and its consequences through forgiveness in Christ, deliverance from a life that is constrained and narrow to one that is “abundant and free” in Christ, and deliverance from this temporary life on earth to eternal life in heaven.
He even speaks of heaven as “gain,” an accounting term that indicates a profit made. Paul’s ultimate stock split is to be with Christ in heaven. By the way, Paul expected upon his death to be consciously present with Christ. No soul-sleep or interplanetary soul travel until you find the perfect eternal vacation home. Nor does he mention any intermediate stop or second chance to believe in Christ. No, his assurance is that immediately upon his death and because of his trusting faith in the work of Christ he will be in heaven with Christ. Do you share Paul’s hope?
As you pray, ask God to help you to keep looking forward to your hope in heaven.
About the Author
David Walls is a pastor and writer who has served in ministry for more than 40 years.
