Philippians 1:27

¶ 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;

Only {G3440} let your conversation be {G4176} as it becometh {G516} the gospel {G2098} of Christ {G5547}: that {G2443} whether {G1535} I come {G2064} and {G2532} see {G1492} you {G5209}, or {G1535} else be absent {G548}, I may hear {G191} of your {G5216} affairs {G4012}, that {G3754} ye stand fast {G4739} in {G1722} one {G1520} spirit {G4151}, with one {G3391} mind {G5590} striving together {G4866} for the faith {G4102} of the gospel {G2098};

Only conduct your lives in a way worthy of the Good News of the Messiah; so that whether I come and see you or I hear about you from a distance, you stand firm, united in spirit, fighting with one accord for the faith of the Good News,

Nevertheless, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending side by side for the faith of the gospel,

Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ: that, whether I come and see you or be absent, I may hear of your state, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of the gospel;

Commentary

Commentary on Philippians 1:27 (KJV)

Philippians 1:27 is a powerful exhortation from the Apostle Paul, urging believers in Philippi to live lives that are consistent with the gospel they profess. This verse serves as a cornerstone for understanding Christian conduct, unity, and dedication to the mission of Christ.

Context

The Epistle to the Philippians is a letter of joy, encouragement, and partnership written by Paul during his imprisonment (likely in Rome). Despite his chains, Paul rejoices in the Philippians' steadfastness and their generous support for his ministry. In this chapter, he expresses his dilemma between living and dying for Christ, ultimately concluding that his presence is more needful for their progress and joy in the faith (Philippians 1:25). Against this backdrop, verse 27 pivots to what their conduct should be, regardless of his physical presence.

Key Themes

  • Worthy Conduct and Christian Citizenship: The KJV phrase "let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ" is crucial. The Greek word here is politeuomai (πολιτεύομαι), which means "to live as a citizen," "to conduct oneself," or "to behave." Paul is calling the Philippians, who were proud citizens of a Roman colony, to remember their true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). Their manner of life, their entire conduct, must be worthy of the good news of Jesus Christ. This means reflecting Christ's character and values in every aspect of life, whether Paul is present or absent. This call for a life "worthy of the calling" is a recurring theme in Paul's letters.
  • Unity and Steadfastness: Paul longs to hear "that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind." This emphasizes the importance of unity among believers. "Standing fast" signifies spiritual resilience and unwavering commitment, especially in the face of opposition. The "one spirit" refers to the Holy Spirit uniting them, and "one mind" speaks to a shared purpose and outlook, preventing divisions and internal strife. Paul frequently stresses the importance of this unity, as seen in his later plea for them to be "likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind" in Philippians 2:2.
  • Striving Together for the Faith: The phrase "striving together for the faith of the gospel" uses the Greek word sunathleō (συναθλέω), which means "to strive together" or "to contend together," like athletes in a joint contest. This highlights the collective effort required to advance and defend the Christian faith. It implies a shared struggle, a united front against spiritual opposition, and a collaborative effort in spreading the good news. The "faith of the gospel" can refer both to the objective body of Christian truth and the subjective faith by which one believes it.

Linguistic Insights

  • The KJV's "conversation" for the Greek politeuomai (πολιτεύομαι) is an older English usage referring to one's entire conduct, lifestyle, or citizenship, not just speech. It powerfully evokes the idea of living as a citizen of God's kingdom.
  • The term "striving together" (sunathleō - συναθλέω) paints a vivid picture of a team engaged in an athletic contest, emphasizing joint effort, perseverance, and a common goal. This highlights the active and collaborative nature of Christian discipleship and evangelism.

Practical Application

Philippians 1:27 remains profoundly relevant today. It calls believers to:

  • Live Authentically: Our daily lives should genuinely reflect the transformative power of the gospel, whether in private or public. Our actions, attitudes, and choices should be consistent with our profession of faith in Christ.
  • Prioritize Unity: In a world often marked by division, Christians are called to actively pursue unity in spirit and purpose, recognizing that our collective strength is vital for the gospel's advance.
  • Engage Actively: We are not passive recipients of the gospel but active participants in its mission. This means standing firm in our beliefs and working together to share and defend the truth of Christ in our communities and beyond.
This verse encourages us to maintain a consistent and unified witness for Christ, regardless of external circumstances or the presence of spiritual leaders.

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Cross-References

  • Ephesians 4:1 (33 votes)

    ¶ I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

  • 1 Corinthians 16:13 (19 votes)

    ¶ Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:14 (19 votes)

    Let all your things be done with charity.

  • 1 Corinthians 1:10 (17 votes)

    ¶ Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and [that] there be no divisions among you; but [that] ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

  • Philippians 2:1 (16 votes)

    ¶ If [there be] therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,

  • Philippians 2:2 (16 votes)

    Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, [being] of one accord, of one mind.

  • 2 Peter 3:14 (15 votes)

    Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.