It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,
(v15-18, NIV)
There are different reasons for why people preach Christ. There are some who do so out of goodwill. These people know that Paul is in chains for the gospel, and they preach the gospel out of love. Unfortunately, some preach out of rivalry or envy. These people are selfish and insincere. Out of a selfish attitude, they hope to stir up trouble for Paul. However, their selfish reasons for preaching the gospel are not a big deal for Paul. Paul is not worried or troubled by this. Instead, he rejoices because the gospel is being preached. Regardless of the reasons for why people are preaching it, he is happy that the gospel is even being preached at all.
Some may wonder whether those who are preaching out of rivalry or envy are actually preaching the correct gospel. However, if it were a distorted or incorrect gospel, Paul would have something to say about that. Paul would not be happy if an incorrect gospel was preached for selfish reasons. In fact, Paul would not be pleased either if an incorrect gospel was preached for "good" reasons. Regardless of the reasons, an incorrect gospel should not be preached.
Those preaching out of selfishness mean for harm and trouble for Paul. However, Paul only looks at the bright side. He doesn't allow these people to take away his joy.
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