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NASB | Philippians 1:23 But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Philippians 1:23 But I am hard-pressed between the two. I have the desire to leave [this world] and be with Christ, for that is far, far better; |
Bible Question:
1 Matt 11:28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. Matt 19:29 "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name's sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. Matt 22:39 "The second is like it, 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' Do not the above verses show that the Gospel appeals to self-interest, and that there is a place for self-interest? What's the difference between self-interest and selfishness? Was Paul's desire to be with the Lord out of selfishness or self-interest? Isn't saying Paul's desire was not in Christ the same as saying it was sinful? How can a desire that is out of Christ be right? And did Paul say that his service on earth for Christ was BETTER or necessary? Phil 1:24 yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. And if it's a matter of serving the Lord, can the Lord be served on earth only? And what is the place of altruism in the Christian life? Thanks charis and Hank for your answers and comments. I'm not trying to be mean or smart, but the selflessness in your answers sound more Kantian than Christian. But I'm grateful for your responses. This is a real question for me; I did not ask my question to engage in an intellectual exercise, although I do enjoy the give and take in our discussions. |
Bible Answer: Addendum: I did not clearly state that self-interest (awareness) is fine, but selfishness (self-focus) is sinful. Also, WTE posted while I was writing. In addition to RC Sproul, Francis Schaeffer writes of Christian philosophy very well. Blessings, dear Lionstrong, in Christ Jesus, charis |