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Can You Cheer On People With Bad Motives? (Philippians 1:15-21)
Episode 1364 • 29th September 2026 • Daily Bible Refresh • Rev. Dr. Brad Miller
00:00:00 00:07:03

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In this episode of The Daily Bible Refresh, Dr. Brad Miller reflects on Philippians 1:15–21, where Paul writes from prison about preachers who are seeking attention for selfish reasons. Rather than dwell on their motives, Paul rejoices that Christ is being proclaimed. Dr. Miller explores what this passage can teach us about grace working through imperfect people, choosing where to spend our limited energy, and finding purpose even amid hardship. He closes with a practical challenge to let good work stand on its own—and a prayer for freedom from the urge to police everyone’s motives.

Key takeaways

  • Paul distinguishes between the message being shared and the motives of the people sharing it.
  • Good can still come through people whose intentions are mixed or imperfect.
  • Paul chooses to celebrate that Christ is being proclaimed rather than resent his competitors.
  • His confidence in life or death is not denial of danger, but clarity about what matters most to him.
  • We can practice letting someone’s good work stand on its own without needing to resolve the question of their character.
  • Grudges and rivalry can consume energy that may be better spent on what matters most.

Links referenced in this episode:

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is presented each day by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller who has a goal of speaking a bit of the bible into two million ears (one million people) in three years (2025-2028).

He is the author of "The A, B, C-1,2,3 Bible Study Guide" Free to you by clicking HERE.

Brad served as a local church pastor for forty years and has a background in radio and podcasting. Moreover, he is a life-long student of The Bible.

He believes in the words of Jesus that “scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21)

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is available seven days a week by 6:00 am ET. The episodes are no longer than ten minutes long and are...

  • Understandable: A reading from the New Testament (usually the Gospel) selected from the Revised Common Lectionary using "The Message" translation.
  • Relatable: You will have a couple of "points to ponder" from the text which will relate to your life
  • Applicable: Every episode includes a way you can take action based on the reading
  • A recommended resource to help you go deeper in biblical study and spiritual direction.
  • A prayer for your day.
A companion resource to the Voice of God Daily Podcast is the “ABC Bible Study Guide” available by clicking HERE.

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is available every day at VoiceofGodDaily.com on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all major podcast directories.

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Remember… “All scripture is God-breathed and useful”(2 Timothy 3:16)

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