1:27
Paul has been speaking about how his imprisonment has served for the spreading of the gospel, and how he approaches the possibility of his dying. This verse encapsulates the way we should live in all circumstances, “whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ”. This should be our goal at all times, and our response in all situations. It is our natural response to be concerned about ourselves, sometimes to be fearful of what might happen to us. Part of the antidote to this is to put our focus on serving Christ. This is like Jesus’ teaching about seeking first the kingdom of heaven (Matt 6:33). It is a different way of living.
The letter started dealing with the concern and worry that the Philippians had for Paul. Now it turns to Paul’s concern for the Philippians, and his concerns are rather different. Paul could not be certain whether or not he would get to see them. Whatever the case, his prime concern is that they are “standing firm in one spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel”. “spirit” could also be “Spirit”, but it doesn’t really matter. If a church is standing firm together working for the gospel, then it is certain that the Holy Spirit is at work in that church.
1:28
The Philippians were facing opposition, and the threat of more opposition, and we have the first mention of that here. Paul’s hope is that they will work for the gospel without being in fear of the opposition that they would inevitably face. Our natural reaction is usually to want the opposition to go away. The Bible presents a different solution. We continue to work for the gospel in the face of the opposition, and do so without being afraid (John 16:33).
Doing this, serving Christ without fear, is a sign to those who oppose. It is a sign that they will be destroyed, but that we will be saved by God. Hopefully some of those who oppose will repent and receive the same salvation.
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