The Gospel With Contention

At Philippi, Paul and his coworkers were "shamefully entreated."  Nonetheless, "we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention."  I Thessalonians 2:2.  The gospel is the announcement from God for the salvation of humanity.  The gospel has been preached since the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.  When Paul and his coworkers went to Philippi, the gospel which they preached was met with opposition.  Not everyone wants to hear the gospel.  On occasion, the gospel simply brings an attitude of indifference.  But, many times the gospel is met with contention.  The devil opposes the spread of truth.  The devil incites warfare against the gospel.  Those who choose to preach the gospel must be ready to fight.  Our only weapon against the devil is the "sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."  Ephesians 6:17.  The church which is armed with the gospel of truth must always be prepared to cast down "every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God."  II Corinthians 10:5.  Many who proclaim the gospel have been cast into prison, reviled, persecuted, and even died.  The truth of God, the gospel, brings contention.  We must be ready to stand, even against the enemies of truth.