I remember as a child learning the Pledge of Allegiance. In first grade, we would stand every morning as good citizens of the United States of America, and repeat words that showed our allegiance to our country. Countries all around the world have some sort of creed, pledge, or song that declares their citizenship. In Philippians 1:27-30. Paul is exhorting the church at Philippi to conduct themselves as citizens of the Kingdom of God.
In Philippians 1:27, he tells them to live faithfully, steadfastly, and in a unified manner. As citizens of Heaven, they are to live this way no matter who they are around. If he is with them, or if he remains in prison, he wants to find them faithful. His heartfelt desire is to find them unwavering in their lifestyle that is fitting for a Christian. He encourages them to strive together for the gospel. There will be much persecution from without, therefore it is vital to their success to experience no strife within the church. He knows how tough it will be to face opposition and remain true to Christ. Yet, his own life testifies that it is possible. In verse 28 he tells them not to fear the suffering that may come. They were not to be alarmed at anything that came against them. He wants them to maintain their Christian integrity, to look forward to the prize of eternity they will receive, and rest assured in the end their enemies will be destroyed and they will be saved.
Philippians 1:27-28 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
The next two verses are not ones anyone wants to hear because it involves suffering. We all do our best to avoid pain. Many run from situations that involve any discomfort. Yet Paul says, “for unto you is given.” This statement means it is a favor granted to Christians to suffer for the cause of Christ. It is a privilege to align with Christ and stand against the odds for one who died for us. He suffered far greater than anything we can imagine. We should not be silent because we desire comfort. In verse 30, he reminds them they are not alone. He’s been there, done it, and is still in it!
Philippians 1:29-30 “For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.”
What does it take to stop you? Are you fearful of speaking about Christ to those at work, for fear of losing your job, or being ridiculed for your faith? Do you desire to fit in, rather than stand out? Are you satisfied with going to church, reading your bible, and being quiet about your faith, except when you are with Christians? If you answered yes to any of these questions you are not fulfilling the great commission that Christ gave us when He went back to Heaven. You are not following Paul’s instructions to the church at Philippi. These words from Paul were included in the scripture to teach us and give us an example of how we should live our lives as a follower of Jesus Christ. The longer we stay quiet and remain comfortable the more people will die and perish in Hell forever. Where do you stand as a believer to bring others to Christ? Are you being a loyal, bold, loving, citizen of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ?
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