A. “To die is gain”? (21-26)

21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.

1. “Life” that continues beyond our physical death

2. “Death” that we should truly fear

3. The joy of being with Jesus

B. Are we truly rejoicing over Jesus?

(Matthew 13:44-46, Luke 9:23-25)

Matthew 13:44-46
44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. 45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46 When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.

Luke 9:23-25
23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. 25 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?

Summary

“Life living with Jesus is full of joy!” Are we truly experiencing it at first hand? The joy of being with Jesus is greater than any joy and pleasure that this world can offer us. It will never be erased either in any sufferings that this world may give us, even the fear of death.

For Discussion

1. What is your greatest joy (treasure) in your present life?
2. What can we do when we don’t feel joy of living?