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Philippians 1:27-2:4
27 Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, 28 and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. 29 For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, 30 engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have.
2 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Watch the Sermon
Summary: After Paul’s reflection on the joy he finds in Christ even amidst uncertainty, he now offers a significant exhortation to the Philippians: to live in a manner worthy of the gospel. When he speaks about our “manner of life,” he is referencing our conduct as citizens—citizens of heaven who live in the world as lights in the darkness. He provides practical examples of what this looks like: striving together in ministry and toward godliness, facing opposition without shrinking back, and conducting ourselves with humble unity, among other things.
We can see how readily this applies to our own lives. Are we locked arm-in-arm with our brothers and sisters as we seek to see the gospel go forth? How are we preparing to stand firm in the face of opposition? How much do we consider the interests of others above our own? In all of these practical applications, it is important to remember that this behavior is fueled by and aimed toward the gospel. Since Christ has given us such a great salvation, let us live in a manner that corresponds to that reality.
Review & Apply
How do you see this passage connecting to the previous verses regarding Paul's life and ministry among them?
What are some repeated themes or phrases throughout Paul's exhortations in this passage? What does that tell you about living as a citizen of heaven?
Why do you think Paul treats suffering as a privilege for the Philippians? What does that tell you about the Christian life?
How would you define humility? How does this passage encourage you to be self-forgetful?
Would you consider unity among Christians to be an essential part of our witness? How does this push against a privatized "just me and Jesus" view of Christianity?
What do you do when you face opposition for your faith? How can this passage encourage you to "stand firm"?
Who are you striving with in the gospel?
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