OUR FATHER WHO MAKES ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD 

The Apostle Paul, in chapter 1 verses 12 - 18 of his letter to the Philippians tells of the paradox of his imprisonment that had been intended as a measure to hinder the spread of the gospel but had instead propelled the gospel because it made the other Christians more bold in speaking the word.

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.

15 Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill: 16 The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains; 17 but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.

Paul notes that it was becoming so accepted to have the gospel preached that some were engaging in the preaching of the gospel to remain socially relevant and so the gospel was being preached out of envy, selfish ambition, insincerity and strife. 

For Paul, he was gratified that the gospel was being preached by whatever means was possible. 

Amen.

12