In Philippians 1:27, Paul demands a life that is significantly different from the norm. This demand is not placed upon just the more “spiritual” believers but upon every believer. This is a call for every believer to live out his true citizenship of heaven while yet on the earth.
Paul begins with a statement giving the utmost importance to what he is about to say. It is as if he is saying, “If you don’t get anything else, at least get this!” This is clearly at the core of Paul’s message to the Philippians.
Paul says that a believers life should be found worthy of the gospel that has transformed it. If the gospel has effected a person it is impossible for them to say the same. No man can be impacted personally by the Creator of the universe and remain the same. Even unsaved people would understand this. A believer must have a way of life that worthy to represent the precious gospel of Christ.
In the latter part of the verse Paul becomes more specific on how to do this. His focus is immediately turned towards a unity among believers. “One spirit,” “One mind,” “Working together,” – this is what a life worthy of the gospel looks like. It is a mindset among believers that is so absolutely centered around the gospel that believers become consumed with the mission to further that gospel by working together and doing whatever may be necessary to make the message go forth.
