The Advancement of the Gospel

Thesis: There is a general suffering that is common to all humans due to the Fall in which sin entered the world. But there is a more specific suffering associated with the advance of the Gospel that is called persecution.

1. IMPRISONED FOR GOSPEL (v. 12)

   • Even in hardship, gospel can be shared
   • every circumstane is opportunity to
     share gospel

2. IMPRISONED FOR CHRIST (v. 13)

   • Every situation is chance to trust Christ
   • Do you exude Christ in every situation

3. IMPRISONED FOR OTHERS (v. 14)

   • Paul's imprisonment didnt just effect
     those he communicated with inside prison,
     but it encouraged those outside prison
   • Others Christian convictions can embolden
     us to promote the Gospel
   • Confidence comes from the Word:
     • 2 Timothy 4:2
     • Matthew 5:18
     • Psalm 119:89
     • 1 Peter 1:24-25

CONCLUSION: Christ suffered the ultimate persecution for the Gospel - whipped, beaten, crucified; but accepted it for the joy that that Gospel message proclaimed. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Him, proclaiming the same message (2 Corinthians 5:20-21).