Paul wrote to the Philippians to show how you can handle trials/persecution and still rejoice and spread the gospel. There were 2 groups of evangelists; those that preach out of a heart of love, and those that saw Paul as a competitor (not as an ally). The second group may have agreed on gospel issues but they spoke out against Paul and his ministry (be aware of attitudes of rivalry, envy, selfish ambition, criticism).
Motives do matter to God (those who preach solely for money, power, respect, or prestige). Despite this, Paul rejoiced because he believed in God's power, wisdom and sovereignty that will overcome all situations. We can rejoice because if our priority is the gospel then our intentions will be aligned with God's will.
Motives matter less than the content of the message (Paul's thoughts were that someone can be insincere as long as they speak the truth; the power of the gospel is greater than man).
A leader should focus on that which is good instead of obsessing on the bad. Paul is able to see the good even in "bad" actions because God will accomplish His will over ours.
Be aware of having a spirit of being judgmental (comparing everything/everyone to a standard of perfection). Keep things in perspective (spiritual maturity), God speaks through imperfect people.
Verse 18 reminds that it doesn't matter what they say about you personally. We are called to defend the gospel not ourselves (if we choose Jesus we "die" to ourselves and are tasked to be obedient and faithful to Jesus).
Learn to rise above trials with Jesus' power. Don't put evangelism on hold to purify the church - better to preach with wrong motives than to not preach at all. It's the message that matters.
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