Definition: According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by life, or by death.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Philippians 1:20. It's a really beautiful and encouraging message about faith and purpose! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that you should be filled with confidence and courage to share the good news of Jesus Christ. It’s not just about feeling confident, but about actively sharing that belief. Let's unpack each part: “According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope…” – This is like saying “I have a strong feeling and believe it.” "Earnest expectation" means a deep, genuine wish or desire. “Hope” means you’re looking forward to something good. “…that in nothing I shall be ashamed…” – This is the big one! It’s saying that you shouldn't feel guilty or worried about being exposed as someone who believes in Jesus. You don't want to let your faith down. It’s a deep desire to remain true to your beliefs. “…but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified…” – “Boldness” means being courageous and not afraid. “As always” is a repetition of the previous point – you’re doing this because it's your natural way of being. "Now also" is emphasizing that this isn’t just a fleeting feeling, but something that will continue to be true. It means that you should actively share your faith and the love of Christ in all situations. “…whether by life, or by death.” – This is a bit more poetic. "By life" means through your daily actions and how you live your life. “By death” refers to your ultimate fate – that you’ll ultimately return to God. It suggests that sharing your faith is important through both your earthly existence and your eventual spiritual journey. In a nutshell: Philippians 1:20 encourages us to be confident in our faith, even when facing challenges or uncertainty. It's about letting your belief shine through in everything you do, knowing it’s not just for yourself but for the glory of Jesus Christ. Why is this important? This verse speaks to a core Christian belief – that God wants us to live a life filled with purpose and truth. It encourages us to be witnesses to the Gospel (the good news about Jesus). --- Would you like me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Give an example of how this verse might apply in your daily life?