27 Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 28 in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God.
Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ
Paul begins with a command; something that he’s telling them they MUST DO.
Paul is calling them to remember that as Christians they’re representing Christ
Paul’s prayer for the Philippians was first for love super-abounding more and more. The increase in their love was to produce a Godly knowledge and profound insight so that they may choose the best course, being sincere, not deceptive with each other so that they’re blameless when they stand before Christ.
When God does a work in our hearts, there’s a reason: it is for us in bringing us closer to Him and for others that we may serve them better!
standing firm
Philippians, keep your standing in Christ.
Remember who you are in Christ! ACT LIKE CHRISTIANS!
HOW God instructs us to fight these spiritual battles: Ephesians 6:11-17
The emphasis is on what we allow GOD to do within us to prepare us, & the choices we make.
The main enemies are pride and fear.
in one spirit
Paul is encouraging them to keep their standing in Christ TOGETHER in one spirit.
with one mind
As Christians we’re to have the mind of Christ.
striving together for the faith of the gospel
Our striving is not to be with each other, but striving together for the faith of the gospel.
28 in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God.
Fear is the enemy of faith.
Sign of destruction
Coming against the gospel
Sign of salvation
Standing firm in defense of the gospel