Philippians 1:27 - Meaning and Application

The apostle ends this chapter with two strong appeals.

First, he urges them to live in a way that matches the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27). Those who profess Christ should have conduct that fits the truth they believe, the commands they obey, and the promises they trust. Their lives should show faith, holiness, and comfort in a way that honors their place in God’s kingdom. When our daily walk matches our profession, it brings beauty to our faith.

He adds that whether he comes to see them or remains absent, he wants to hear good news about them. Earlier he had spoken of coming to them again, but he does not want them depending on his presence. Our religion must not rest on ministers alone. Whether a minister is near or far, Christ is always present, and the Lord’s coming draws near (James 5:8). Paul wants to hear that they stand firm, united in spirit, and striving together for the faith of the gospel.

That includes three things. First, Christians must strive for the gospel, using holy effort to enter God’s kingdom. The faith of the gospel, meaning the Christian message and way of life, is worth fighting for. If religion is worth anything, it is worth everything. There is real opposition, so believers must be watchful and diligent.

Second, Christians should strive together, not against one another. The gospel calls for unity of heart and purpose. There is one Lord, one faith, and one baptism, so believers should stand together against the common enemy. Christians may differ on many questions and still have real love and unity of spirit.

Third, steadfastness fits the gospel. They are to stand firm in one spirit and one mind, not shifting with every pressure. It is a shame when believers are unstable and easily moved. Those who want to contend for the faith must also remain fixed in it.

Second, Paul urges courage and endurance in suffering. They are not to be frightened by their opponents (Philippians 1:28). From the beginning, the followers of Christ have faced enemies, especially when the Christian faith was first spreading. Their main duty is to keep close to their calling and stay faithful, no matter what trouble comes.

He says that opposition is a sign of destruction for persecutors, but a sign of salvation for the persecuted. This does not mean every sufferer is truly saved, since hypocrites can suffer too. But when believers are able to suffer rightly for Christ, it is a good sign that they are serious about the faith and meant for salvation. Those who attack the gospel and hurt its followers are heading toward ruin.

Paul then says that believing in Christ and suffering for Christ are both gifts given on Christ’s behalf (Philippians 1:29). Faith itself is God’s gift. Christ purchased not only the blessings faith receives, but also the grace that enables us to believe. Even the ability and desire to trust God come from him.

Suffering for Christ is also a precious gift. It is an honor, and it can serve God’s glory and strengthen the faith of others. It also carries great reward. Jesus said that those who are persecuted are blessed, because their reward in heaven is great (Matthew 5:11-12). If we suffer with him, we will also reign with him (2 Timothy 2:12). So if we lose comfort, honor, or possessions for Christ, we should count it a great privilege.

Still, that only holds if we suffer with the right spirit, like true martyrs and confessors (Philippians 1:30). Paul tells them they are having the same struggle they saw in him, and now hear that he still bears. It is not suffering by itself that makes a martyr, but the cause and the spirit in which a person suffers. Someone may suffer for a bad cause, and then the suffering is deserved. Or someone may suffer for a good cause with the wrong heart, and then the suffering loses its worth.