Some might have expected Paul to tone down his fearless heralding of the gospel, since it was that preaching that enraged his enemies and thus jeopardized his life. Being less combative would have diminished the threat he faced. But the more the hostility and persecution escalated, the bolder Paul became. He never wavered in courageously proclaiming the truth. Because he faced death confidently, even gladly, that triumphant perspective caused him to write, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.” (Philippians 1:21-24)