To Live Is Christ

• If to live is money, then to die is to leave it behind.
• If to live is popularity, then to die is to be forgotten.
• If to live is power, then to die is to lose it all.

The world says “To live is happiness.” “I deserve to be happy.”
But you won’t find that promise in Scripture. Living for this world always leads to emptiness. Jesus said the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy—but He came to give us abundant life.

So how could Paul, sitting in prison and facing death, say:

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Philippians 1:21

Paul’s confidence wasn’t in his circumstances. It was in Christ.

1) Confidence That Christ Will Be Magnified

Paul begins with: “I know.”

“I eagerly expect and hope… that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”

Philippians 1:20

Paul’s hope wasn’t wishful thinking. It was assurance. Even in suffering, he believed Christ would be lifted high through his life.

And he points to two things that release God’s power:
The prayers of God’s people + the Spirit of God.

“Brothers and sisters, pray for us.”

1 Thessalonians 5:25

Prayer and power go together. Human intercession brings divine intervention.

Paul also refused to live ashamed. He wanted his life to preach Jesus everywhere, at home, at work, in public, and in pressure.

“Do all things without complaining… among whom you shine as lights in the world.”

Philippians 2:14–15

 

2) Conviction About Life and Death

Paul wasn’t living for comfort, applause, or control.

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Philippians 1:21

Death wasn’t a loss to him, it was gain. The word means profit, like a reward from an investment.

And Paul says he’s torn:

“I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far.”

Philippians 1:23

For the believer, death isn’t the end. It’s the doorway into God’s presence.
Paul’s mindset was simple: I can’t lose.
To live is Christ. To die is more of Christ.

3) Commitment to Growth and Joy

Even though Paul longed for heaven, he stayed focused on helping others grow:

“I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith.”

Philippians 1:25

That word progress carries the idea of blazing a trail, clearing the way for others to follow. Paul was willing to postpone what he wanted so others could become what God wanted.

And that brings it home:
What are you willing to do to see your family and friends come to Jesus?

That’s why days like our One Day Revival matter. We bring people. We sit with them. We walk with them to the altar. We celebrate when they say yes to Christ, because that’s the most joy-filled moment there is.

The Question We All Have to Answer

To live is _________.

If Christ isn’t your everything, life will always feel fragile, because it can all be taken away. But when Christ is your life, you can face anything.

“Let not your heart be troubled… In My Father’s house are many mansions.”

John 14:1–2

To live is Christ.
And that’s the only life you can’t lose.

If you’re ready to take your next step, fill out a Connection Card or visit one of our campus locations. We would love to pray with you, baptize you, or help you get connected.