Sunday: Paul, the Prisoner of Jesus Christ
Daily Lesson for Sunday 28th of December 2025
Philippians and Colossians are called Prison Epistles because they were written while Paul was in prison (the others are Ephesians and Philemon). Most commentators think they were written while Paul was in Rome, about a.d. 60–62 (see Acts 28:16).
Read Ephesians 3:1 and Philemon 1:1-25. What is the significance of how Paul characterizes his imprisonment?
Image © Review & Herald Publishing at Goodsalt.com
Paul has given his life in service to Jesus Christ. If that service includes being a prisoner, he is ready. Paul describes himself as “an ambassador in chains” (Ephesians 6:20, NKJV). He had been on missionary journeys, raising up churches and training workers for the Lord. He may have asked, “Why am I here when I could be doing so much more without these chains?” Paul was also imprisoned later, when he wrote 2 Timothy, which is considered a Pastoral Epistle. So at least five books of the New Testament were written while he was in prison.
In none of the prison epistles does Paul mention exactly where he was imprisoned; thus, some have suggested either Ephesus or Caesarea. But there is no biblical evidence that Paul was ever imprisoned in Ephesus. Caesarea might seem a more likely possibility, except there is no apparent threat to Paul’s life in this city. There definitely is that threat, however, by the time Philippians was written (see Philippians 1:20, Philippians 2:17).
This epistle gives us some other clues as to where Paul was at the time of his imprisonment. First, there was a praetorium. This can refer to a provincial governor’s official residence, like the one in Jerusalem, where Jesus was examined by Pilate (Matthew 27:27, John 18:33), and in Caesarea, where Paul was imprisoned (Acts 23:35). But Paul clearly uses this term not of a place but in reference to people. He says “the whole palace guard” became familiar with the gospel (Philippians 1:13, NKJV). In Rome, these were elite soldiers, about fourteen thousand, who protected the emperor and guarded his prisoners.
Second, Paul also sends greetings from the believers in “Caesar’s household” (Philippians 4:22). This indicates that Paul was a prisoner in Rome and in contact with those who served the imperial household.
|
How do we learn to make the best of whatever tough situation we find ourselves in? Why is that not always easy to do? |
I have sometimes wondered what I would do if I was a prisoner. I guess I would spend a lot of time thinking and trying to solve problems. I would like access to my computer of course, But that idea reminded me that some of the best computing ideas were developed by people who did not have access to computers. While Charles Babbage’s difference engine was still largely a dream and a heap of drawings about what could be, his accomplice, the brilliant intelligent Ada King, Countess of Lovelace, developed the whole idea of programming. Even though she was imprisoned by sickness and the 19th century social convention of not educating women, she used her mind brilliantly and came up with ideas that are at the basis of machine automation today.
Paul was in prison several times during his recorded life and from the little glimpses his letters give us, he led a fruitful life, not only interacting with people around him, but also taking time to write letters to others. So, I ask the rhetorical question: Would we spend our time in prison complaining about the circumstances of our arrest, or doing something to spread the good news about Jesus? It is a reminder too that often our circumstances imprison us in some way, sickness, social anxiety, old age, isolation in the country, or whatever and we make it an excuse for not sharing God’s love. We have a saying for this: “Think outside the box!”
I guess; I would ask God to show me the purpose in this situation and to change my outlook realizing that our outlook or prespective will determine the outcome. I would find scriptures that address what I’m going through, and remind myself that where God has me at the present time, is my mission field. He has some task for me or perhaps some lesson to teach me or both.
“I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles…”(Ephesians 3:1).
It is profoundly important to note how Paul reframes the imprisonment. He deliberately refuses to call himself a prisoner of Caesar, even though he was physically imprisoned in Rome. By calling himself a “prisoner of Christ,”, he is declaring that it is Christ who has ultimate authority over his life and not Rome. Paul wants to declare that his imprisonment has a divine purpose and not an accident (Romans 8:28). Paul chooses to be a prisoner of conscience rather than an imposed one. That is to say, even though he was physically imprisoned, he chose to imprison himself in Christ by obedience. He chose to be anchored in Christ by love and obedience, and not coercion. Believers might not be physically confined, but morally and spiritually are constrained. This is not a loss of freedom but freedom of whom to serve. “You are slaves of the one you obey.” (Romans 6:16). Therefore, freedom is not the absence of physical confinement but the master we choose to serve. True freedom is when we choose to abide to do the will of God.
“If you remain in my word… you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31–32).
The Apostle, Paul has his way with words, which praises and worships God by extension. I think I – and probably many others like me – have seeing this introduction so very many times: and then without a qualm or even pausing to ask why, we continue reading through the rest of the message. It’s turning out we are missing out on Paul’s worship experience.
In fact, for most of us, the 13 letters of Paul have been more about “punchlines” or “arsenals” to use during spiritually-laced conversations (no ill will or pun intended), but then today, “prisoner or bondservant” has been brought to a highlight. I ran a search of the word “bondservant” and the definition is very telling:
Wow! This is very awakening, and just sets one off into more study. Paul’s choice of words is heavily inclined towards profession to God. There is much to study and learn this quarter from these two epistles.
We must always have an attitude of humility and gratitude, knowing that our lives are in God’s hands, and He determines the paths that we walk, directly, or indirectly.
Sometimes, what we are going through might be hard to bear, but we can gain strength, and fortitude through prayer. Knowing that He’s always with us is very comforting, and a source of great joy, whatever may be the experience that we are going through.
We can’t do it in our own strength, but He is able to carry us through if we constantly look to Him.
When we take our eyes off of Him, like Peter did, we will start sinking, and discouragement could overcome us, but as we cry out, He reaches out and pulls us up again and gives us what we need to continue.
Beautifully written Jennylind. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
Making the best of difficult circumstances does not mean pretending that nothing has been lost. We cannot simply go through the motions as if all is well when we are hurting or overwhelmed by the troubles around us. Embracing hardship and honestly accepting our reality allows us to acknowledge what we are facing, so that we can move forward through Christ Jesus. When we release our self-protection and surrender our concerns to God, we live authentically—becoming genuine Christians and a true witness to those who are seeking real faith in action.
I had the thought after reading “He had been on missionary journeys raising up churches and training workers for the Lord
why am I here”.
Paul was successful so It’s not always about numbers with God. It’s something else? What do you think that is?
I agree with you, Brother Bud; I agree with everything in your short message. “Why am I here?” and “it’s not always about numbers with God”.
For many years now, I have been thinking about starting a Discipleship class at my church; but I don’t know how to go about starting it. I feel that every Believer needs someone to walk through this Christian journey with them; someone to pray with; someone that we can talk to when no one else will listen and understand. It would be sort of a Mentorship program.
Unfortunately, when I was serving the church as an Elder, the church did not embrace this type of program (although, they would never admit it). But I still have a Dream of doing this, some day. In the recent past, I have taken several of the General Conference’s Mentorship classes, in preparation for the day when God decides that it is my time (my season) to start this program. Please pray for me that I continue to listen to God the Holy Spirit to lead me into that path.
God’s blessings to everyone and your families. Happy New Year!!
I was once director of discipleship at my church and soon realized what an amazing blessing it was not only for the class but also for me and my spiritual walk. Everyone needs nurturing especially the newly baptized. I highly recommend you moving forward with this impression. You can simply start by inviting people home after service for a meal and short study. Speak to your church leaders such as personal ministries for example; and if they do not see the vision, I would suggest that you start a small study/mentorship group on zoom or in your home.
Having a personal relationship with God,his love in us will compel us to work for the master trusting in his promise
Trust and Obey
I struggle to understand much of Paul’s writings. But I cannot escape the fact that he had a deep devotion towards God and an earnest longing to see even those who held him captive come to know Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:13 refers. When we find ourselves in difficult situations, it is easy to get carried away by our emotions and begin to think rash towards those who wrong us. We completely forget that we are to let our “light so shine” even in unfavourable circumstances, but here Paul reminds us of our calling to be faithful witnesses, and be always willing to suffer persecution for the cause of Christ.
Me too, Donnette. Paul was so deep in his letters to the churches, but I continue to struggle to understand all of his what he is saying. So, I’m glad to hear that someone else is struggling too, that I’m not the only one. And I decided that this quarter I would read Paul’s writings with the help of other Bible translations, such as The Message and the New American Standard Bible translation, and others. I’m hoping that it will help me.
God’s blessings to you and your family! Happy New Year!!
Reflecting Christ no matter the circunstances. That’s the natural output in the life of those who surrender to Jesus when He calls. I was once kept in jail, unfairly, for about 6 to 7 hours. Even being afraid for my life, I was able to witness the police agents and to the chief of the police station. One of the agents bought Bible from me. God used me to reach this policeman. I Felt ill one day. This day I has to stay a whole day in a health Care unit. After tão sets of medical tests I was found to have nothing. I couldn’t figure out what happened, notwithstanding, I had a chance to help a Lot of sick people I met in this health Care unit. Circunstances kept changing and I as Paul in prisions, but I never stopped witnessing of my Sweet Lord Jesus Christ.
Reflecting Christ no matter the circunstances. That’s the natural output in the life of those who surrender to Jesus when He calls. I was once kept in jail, unfairly, for about 6 to 7 hours. Even being afraid for my life, I was able to witness the police agents and to the chief of the police station. One of the agents bought Bible from me. God used me to reach this policeman. I Felt ill one day. This day I has to stay a whole day in a health Care unit. After tão sets of medical tests I was found to have nothing. I couldn’t figure out what happened, notwithstanding, I had a chance to help a Lot of sick people I met in this health Care unit. Circunstances kept changing and I as Paul in prisions, never stopped witnessing of my Sweet Lord Jesus Christ.
Everyone can serve Christ.You can be a servant of Christ in many ways:prayer, helping others or sharing your faith.
Unless we trust and believe in the presence of God in every situation (good or bad) of our lives, it will be hard to make the best of the tough moments we encounter.
Let’s also believe and trust His will for our lives.
Just a comment on Paul saying “Why am I here?” I don’t actually think he would have said this. He knew exactly why he was where he was because he orchestrated it by appealing to Caesar. Acts 26:32 actually tells us that he could have been set free if he hadn’t appealed to Caesar.
For sure the idea that we can make the best of circumstances is important. But Paul’s situation was somewhat different as he was quite in control of the situation. Obviously some elements, like how long he had to wait to see the emperor, were out of his control.
I have always admired the Apostle Paul because of His unwavering faith and his honesty in sharing his personal struggles. “I do what I do not desire to do.” As a nurse, I cared for patients who suffered immensely. Still, in 2023, when I suffered from a debilitating illness that almost took my life, I discovered that my intellectual knowledge of the Scriptures and my nursing knowledge and experience were inadequate to nurture my weakened faith. We must live a faith-based, Christ-centered life totally depending on God. Unless we awaken and use our faith to surrender ourselves daily, Lord, what do You want me to do? We have redirected our faith to ourselves. In times of immense suffering, we cannot remain steadfast using our knowledge or strength. Every day, we have the opportunity to be led by the Holy Spirit, God, not my will, but Your will be done. From humbling myself, the Holy Spirit is strengthening my faith, and when I suffered health challenges from October 3rd until December 25th, my prayer of faith to Jesus was, I trust You, my life is in Your hands. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Peace and Blessing
Paul says that if he be alive, that’s in Christ and if he dies, it’s a gain. This is so powerful a lesson that we should struggle to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice to the Lord so that we are not scared of death for dying in Christ is a gain. I know death is coming but it’s my prayer that I die in gain not loss. Paul erected churches and made many converts to Jesus, in our daily works how many have we converted? It’s my prayer that God may touch us those who know Him and enable us to do His will just like Paul🙏
How do we learn to make the best of whatever tough situation we find ourselves in? Why is that not always easy to do?
I can only appeal to God, because He knows me and the future. There is always something from the fruits of the Spirit I need to acquire. I pray for mercy so I can learn faster.
Ephesians 3:1 Paul says his imprisonment is “for you Gentiles”. Which I believe shows he views his suffering as service for others, not personal tragedy.
And Paul calling himself a prisoner of Christ, I feel is aligning himself with Christ’s own suffering and obedience. Which reflects Philippians 3:10 “That I may know him…and the fellowship of his sufferings…”KJV
It is amazing how God works. Joseph was in a similar situation, yet God use their imprisonment to bless others and bring glory to His name. So I guess the question is how can God use me in all situations and not why me?
So true, Brother Dwayne. But I want to learn how to “Bless others” without being in a physical prison.
For our Women’s Ministry Christmas party last week, our leader told us to buy a small gift (dollar gifts) for each of the women that was expected to be in attendance; so, everyone left the Christmas party with 12 small gifts.
Anyway, along with my gift, I put a small suggestion on each bag, little things that we can do to share God’s love. Such as “Smile at 5 people each week”, or “Call an old friend at least once a month”, etc, etc. We don’t always have to do something BIG to show Jesus’ love to others; we just need to be willing to be “used by Him”, as others have already said, to reflect Jesus to others.
But if I am ever in Prison, physically or circumstantially, I pray that I will take advantage of the opportunity to share God’s love with others.
God’s blessing to you and your family! Happy New Year!!
I think the best way for one to make the best of whatever situation one may find himself/herself in is to guide one’s intuitions with the commandment. It might not seem to be a usual habit for us to commit ourselves to, knowing that a moment could require one to act without reflecting on the commandment to decide. However, if we could explore the possibilities to make amends for our hasty decisions, we could find the best practice to deal with our misguided vexation. The scripture offers solutions for us to deal with our impromptu decision to purify ourselves from sins of all sorts and to renew our commitment to the LORD’s commandment. Because the commandment is the lamp, the law is the light, and the reproofs of instruction are the ways of life (Proverbs 6:23), we are eligible to convert our sins to get saved.
God offered us a chance to deal with our sins because He knew for certain that we lived in a sinful world and the only way we could prune ourselves to be righteous is to repent from our sins. If one becomes aware of what might be a hindrance to being righteous before God, one will learn to adapt to the LORD’s commandment to maintain consistency in righteousness.
It’s very true, just as Satan will be bound by circumstances in the end, we are bound by circumstances now. We may not have bars around us but we are bound. And Satan uses these bonds to access our emotions. Think our emotions are usually what get us into trouble, saying too much or the wrong thing, doing too much. We all need to learn to control our emotions, that is a big weakness; and we need to learn to be temperate in all things.
Also, I like the idea of mentorship. There are a lot of lonely people in our church and no one talks to them, except to say “Happy Sabbath”. I think we need to look around and see who isn’t visiting with others or who is widowed or divorced or new, whatever the case may be, and do something about it. And after taking care of the church, we need to do the same thing in our communities.