Section 5
mistreatment. Under those circumstances, we would expect him to long to be with Christ. Any believer in Paul's situation would have the same desire.
We have indicated that to be with Christ is a matter of degree, not of place. No doubt, Paul was with Christ in prison. The fact that he was al ready with Christ indicates that being with Christ is not a matter of place. But although Paul was with Christ to a certain degree, he desired to be with Him in a higher degree. Paul knew that as a result of physical death he would be with Christ to a greater extent than in his earthly life. For this reason, he could desire to depart and to be with Christ, regarding this as much better.
REMAINING FOR THE SAINTS'
PROGRESS AND JOY
In verse 24 Paul continues, "But to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake." The words "your sake" mean for the sake of the church. The apostle's consideration was not selfish, but was for the sake of the saints. He was absolutely occupied by the Lord with the church. Paul real ized that the churches needed more of the min istry of Christ. For their sake, he would remain in order to minister Christ to them.