4 Ways to be Invincible

It’s incredible, really. Saul becoming Paul, and then his ministry to the lost. The same ministry that involved people whom he once killed: Christians. What Christ did to Paul was effective enough to impact the whole world. Christ wants to do the same thing to us, and it would be just as impacting. Are you ready for it?

In Philippians 1:12-14, Paul makes a startling statement to several believers who thought the end of the gospel was here. Their leader, Paul, was in prison–inside the enemy’s lair. But Paul was convinced it was the best place to be.

¹² But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, ¹³ so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; ¹⁴ and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. (Biblegateway.com)

Within these few words, I see 4 things about Paul that caused him to be as inspiring and impacting as he was. If we could only adopt these same things that Paul had:

1. Realize that bad times are good times to share the gospel. The Christians in Philippi apparently thought that the spreading of the good news of Jesus Christ was finished because of Paul’s imprisonment. Paul realized that God had other plans for this spreading. To the Philippians, this was a bad situation. To Paul, it was perfect because he realized that bad times are good times to tell others about Jesus.

2. Look for opportunities even in the most unexpected places. With a Roman guard chained to each arm for multiple-hour shifts, Paul had a captive audience. And, as the text says, the whole Roman palace (about 9,000 soldiers, plus palace staff) heard the gospel. Paul realized something we should understand: there are always opportunities to share Christ with someone. Always. Look for them.

3. Understand that your boldness can ignite a powerful passion in many others. “…and most of the brethren in the Lord…are much more bold to speak the word without fear.” Fear in evangelism is normal, but when one person overcomes his fear by standing on the everlasting foundation of Jesus Christ, others will follow. You can inspire others by your lifestyle of evangelism! Yes, you. You can be the one who sparks an incredible ministry of evangelism in your church. Christ within us gives us the power to overcome fear. Everyone wants to overcome fear.

4. Know that your attitude changes everything. Paul had an attitude. The authorities told him, “Paul, if you don’t stop preaching Christ, then we are going to beat you.” His answer? “He died for me. The least I could do is take a beating for Him. You can’t stop this.” They replied, “Paul, if you don’t stop preaching this gospel, then we are going to throw you in jail.” His answer? “Fine. I’ll just witness to the guards. They aren’t going anywhere. You can’t stop this.” Finally, they said, “Paul, if you don’t stop this, then we are going to kill you.” His answer? “To me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. I will not stop.” Paul’s attitude changed everything.

Jesus did something to Paul that was contagious. Most of the brethren followed his lead. That means some didn’t. Some were cowards. But we don’t have to be! What Christ did to Paul, He can do to us–if we allow Him. Will you allow Christ to change you by following Him in obedience?

Because the Creator lives inside you, you are invincible. That means you can change the world.