“Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of goodwill.” — Philippians 1:15

In a bustling city stood two great preachers. One was Pastor James, a humble servant of God who preached out of love, led by the Holy Spirit. The other was Pastor Victor, a charismatic man who saw ministry as a means of gaining wealth and influence. While Pastor James spent time in prayer, fasting, and serving the needy, Pastor Victor focused on prosperity, urging his followers to give excessively, promising them miracles in return.

Both had large congregations, but the fruits of their ministries were vastly different. James’ followers grew in the Spirit, exhibiting love, humility, and a hunger for God’s Word. Victor’s followers, however, became obsessed with worldly success, status, and material wealth. They sought blessings but not the Blesser, miracles but not the Miracle Worker. They were caught in the trap of selfish ambition, unknowingly being led astray.

The danger of preaching for selfish gain.

The world is full of selfish ambition. Many use the name of Christ not to glorify Him but to enrich themselves. They twist the Gospel for personal gain, leading many astray. The Bible warns against such people in 2 Corinthians 11:13: “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.” These individuals seek their own interests rather than Christ’s mission, deceiving those who do not discern through the Spirit.

Preaching the Gospel should never be for personal gain or recognition but out of love and obedience to God. 1 Peter 5:2-3 says: “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.”

The natural man cannot please God

Those who preach for selfish reasons are natural men, driven by the flesh and not by the Spirit. They build congregations filled with worldly desires—people who seek comfort rather than holiness, prosperity rather than salvation, and entertainment rather than truth. Romans 8:5-6 warns: “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”

Such people lack the true transformation that comes from being born of God. Matthew 7:15-16 cautions: “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits.” If the fruit of a ministry is greed, division, and pride, then it is not of Christ.

The Call to Preach with Love and Integrity

As believers, we are called to preach Christ out of love, led by the Holy Spirit, and not for selfish gain. 2 Timothy 4:2 instructs: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” Our goal is to win souls for Christ, not to amass wealth or personal influence. The Holy Spirit in us compels us to preach with sincerity, truth, and humility.

Those who misuse the Gospel will face judgment. Matthew 7:21-23 gives a stern warning: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

A heart aligned with God.

Let us examine our motives. Are we serving God for His glory or for our personal gain? The true servants of Christ are not those with the biggest congregations or the most fame but those who walk in humility, obedience, and truth.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, purify my heart. Let me serve you with sincerity and love, not for selfish gain. Fill me with the Holy Spirit so that I may preach Christ in truth. Help me discern false teachings and remain steadfast in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection:

• Have I been seeking God or merely His blessings?
• Do I discern teachings that focus on personal gain rather than Christ?
• How can I ensure my heart remains aligned with God’s will?

Final Encouragement: Be a true follower of Christ, preaching and living out the Gospel with love. Those who seek first the kingdom of God will be rewarded with eternal riches that far outweigh anything this world can offer (Matthew 6:33). Stay steadfast in the faith, and let Christ be the center of all you do. Amen.

Related Bible Verses:

• Titus 1:11
• Galatians 1:10
• Jeremiah 23:16
• 1 Timothy 6:10