**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. To start off, can you share with us a significant perspective from your life and ministry that you recorded in your letter to the Philippians, particularly in 1:29?

**Paul:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. In that particular verse, I expressed something quite profound about the experiences of believers. I said, “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him.”

**Interviewer:** That’s a powerful statement. Can you elaborate on what you meant by “granted” in relation to belief and suffering?

**Paul:** Certainly. The word “granted” conveys a sense of gift or privilege. It implies that both faith in Christ and the experience of suffering for His sake are bestowed upon believers. It’s not merely a burden we carry; rather, it’s an honor to share in Christ’s sufferings. Our belief is a gift from God, and alongside that, the privilege of enduring hardship for the sake of the Gospel is also entrusted to us.

**Interviewer:** So, you see suffering as an integral part of the Christian journey?

**Paul:** Exactly! Suffering, while challenging, can deepen our faith and strengthen our witness to others. It aligns us more closely with Christ, who suffered tremendously. In facing trials, believers can showcase the transformative power of faith, demonstrating resilience and hope even in adversity.

**Interviewer:** How do you think this perspective resonated with the Philippians, given their context in that early church?

**Paul:** The Philippians were facing their own trials and persecution, so this message was incredibly relevant. I wanted to encourage them to remain steadfast in their faith, assuring them that their struggles were not in vain, but part of a larger narrative of redemption and purpose in Christ. It was essential for them to know that they were not alone — their suffering was a shared experience in the body of Christ.

**Interviewer:** That’s very insightful. What do you hope readers today take away from your words in that verse?

**Paul:** I hope they understand that faith and suffering can coexist in a meaningful way. Believing in Christ is a profound gift, and facing hardship for Him is a unique honor. I want them to find strength and courage in their journey, realizing that in their trials, they can lean into their relationship with Him and be sources of hope for others.