Better to be with Christ than Here
Philippians 1:23-24
For I am in a strait between two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:…


I. WHAT IS IT TO BE WITH CHRIST? It implies —

1. Our being where He is (John 14:2-4).

2. Our enjoying what He enjoys.

(1)  Clear knowledge of God (John 17:3; 1 Corinthians 13:12).

(2)  Perfect love.

(3)  Eternal joy (Philippians 4:1).

II. HOW IS IT BETTER?

1. In its immunities.

(1) From sin (1 Corinthians 15:30).

(a)  Errors in judgment (1 Corinthians 13:12).

(b)  Disorder in affections.

(c)  Infirmity in actions.

(2) From misery (Revelation 21:4).

2. In its enjoyments, which are better; because —

(1)  More real (Proverbs 23:5).

(2)  More spiritual (Matthew 11:28-29).

(3)  More satisfying (Psalm 16:11; Psalm 17:15).

(4)  More certain (Isaiah 55:3).

(5)  More lasting (2 Corinthians 5:1).

III. USES. Labour to get to Christ.

1. Means.

(1) Repent (Luke 13:3).

(2) Believe on Christ (Acts 16:31).

(3) Labour after true grace, without which you shall not (Hebrews 12:14), and you cannot enjoy God.

(4) Use the means appointed (Romans 10:17).

2. Motives.

(1) Labour after it. Consider —

(a)  It is possible.

(b)  It is desired by God (Ezekiel 33:11).

(c)  You will repent ere long unless you do.

(2) Seek it first.

(a)  It is a thing of the greatest concern (Luke 10:42).

(b)  It is the only thing needful (Luke 10:42).

(3) Labour after it now (Psalm 95:8-9). Consider —

(a)  Your time is short.

(b)  The work is great.

(c)  You know not when you will be called to account.

(Bishop Beveridge.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

WEB: But I am in a dilemma between the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.




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