What does the Apostle Paul mean when he says "to die is gain"? In this powerful message from our series, An Invitation to Joy, we explore how understanding death biblically transforms the way we live today. Paul, writing from a Roman prison and facing possible execution, declares that death isn't the final word. Instead, he claims it's a doorway to gaining Christ's presence, permanence, and perfect fulfillment. We unpack why grief isn't a lack of faith but a sign of love, why the Bible calls death an enemy, and how Paul's shocking confidence in the face of death reveals what it means to live with real purpose. If you've ever wrestled with loss, grief, or wondered what makes Christianity more than just good advice, this message is for you.

00:00 Welcome & Introduction
00:32 The Quest for "Gains"
03:14 To Die Is Gain — Paul's Shocking Statement
04:25 More Than Good Advice — The Heart of the Gospel
06:31 Why Death Feels So Wrong
07:57 The Three Pains of Death
09:08 Jesus Wept — Tears Don't Cancel Faith
11:58 What Do We Actually Gain? Paul in a Roman Prison
13:22 Gain #1: We Gain Christ
16:09 Gain #2: We Gain Permanence
21:24 Gain #3: We Gain Fulfillment
25:04 So What? Why Paul Chose to Stay
28:55 Joy Is Found in a Meaningful Life
30:59 Closing Prayer

Support the show

Made a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766

Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.