What does "to die is gain" in Philippians 1:21 mean? Is it to embrace death or is Paul reaching for a deeper truth that has profound implications for the human soul?
Episode Notes:
Philippians 1:21 (NIV) - “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
https://www.gotquestions.org/to-die-is-gain.html
When we think about death, our souls wrestle with the concept of fragility and finality.
We strive to avoid death. It seems in many ways that humanity for as long as history can trace has been trying to avoid it.
Within Christianity, there seems to be a hopeful view of death and life after. A historical account of early church members would demonstrate an embracing of death in the midst of their circumstances. Although the Old Testament is rather perplexing as deep mourning ensues after the loss of a loved one, which aligns with how many experience death.
The question as to why Paul seems so comfortable with death is answered in the life of Christ.
Jesus regularly talked about death, eternity, and the inheritance promised in the resurrection to those who were adopted into the family of God.
Jesus’s death and resurrection are clear evidence of bodily life after death and were the primary foundation needed for the human soul to begin processing the weakened impact death now had on humanity.
This evidence and belief was the motivator for Paul during many of the challenges he faced.
It was a recognition that while life on earth could provide joy, peace, and fulfillment, it was also full of suffering, hardship, and sacrifice
Whereas life after death seemed to dwell in a state of joy, peace, and comfort all the while enjoying the rewards set before them.
If that belief is true? Then why live?
To carry on the message of Christ.
And yet, we can also live without fear of death, as the finality and "sting" of death is no more in Christ.
Music - Wandering by Sunny Fruit
