Sunday
Sunday
Living a Life Worthy of the Gospel
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.
Philippians 1:27
Because he is a prisoner, Paul’s future is wholly uncertain. He knows that he may be approaching death. But “whatever happens,” whether he lives or dies, his main concern is not for himself but for the gospel and what will happen to it when he is gone. So he issues to the Philippians an eloquent fivefold summons (vv. 27–30).
Firstly, there is the call to live a life worthy of the gospel. Our conduct is to be in tune with our calling. There is to be no dichotomy between what we say and what we are, but rather a fundamental consistency.
Secondly, Paul calls us to stand firm in the gospel. Stability is important in every sphere. We talk about a stable government, economy, and building. Luke tells us that the apostles revisited the towns they had evangelized, establishing the converts. Yet stability in doctrine and ethics is in short supply today.
Thirdly, there is the call to contend for the faith of the gospel. This describes a combination of evangelism and apologetics, not only proclaiming the gospel, but also defending it and arguing for its truth.
Fourthly, we are to work together for the gospel. This is the call to unity that is much emphasized in Philippians. Paul urges the Christians in Philippi to “stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel” (v. 27). The apostle does not, of course, advocate unity at any price, even compromising fundamental truths in order to attain it, but unity in the essentials of the gospel.
Fifthly, Paul issues a call to suffer for the gospel. “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him” (v. 29). It is very striking that faith and suffering are twin Christian privileges that are given to the people of God. The Philippians had seen Paul suffer physical persecution in their city, and they will suffer too. For “suffering is the badge of the true Christian,” wrote Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
For further reading: Philippians 1:27–30