Conduct That Is Worthy of the Gospel
by Jeffrey W. Hamilton
Text: Philippians 1:25-30
I. The church at Philippi had long had a close relationship with Paul.
A. This is where Lydia and the Philippian jailor had been converted (Acts 16)
B. Philippi had frequently supported Paul, even when others did not - Philippians 4:15-17
C. Paul wrote to them about his imprisonment - Philippians 1:12-14
1. What he reveals is a man who remains joyful and confident - Philippians 1:3-8
2. Though it was possible that he might die, he trusts that he will remain - Philippians 1:24-26
II. Conduct yourselves
A. The sentence begins with “Only.” The Greek word means “above all else,” “whatever may happen,” or “at all costs.” This is a matter of importance to Paul.
B. The Greek word politeuesthe refers to live as citizens. Our conduct should reflect who we are and what we represent
C. Not everyone in the Roman Empire was a citizen
1. Only certain people had the status of being a Roman citizen
2. Only certain cities were considered Roman colonies. Philippi was one - Acts 16:12
3. Knowing you had these privileges, you acted accordingly
D. Our citizenship is in heaven - Philippians 3:20
1. Do we act like a citizen of heaven or act like we are a part of the world?
E. The priorities of God’s kingdom comes first - Matthew 6:33
III. Our behavior is to be worthy of the gospel
A. Remember that we are traveling in a foreign land - I Peter 2:11-12
B. Our behavior is to be consistent with the law of Christ’s kingdom - I John 2:3-6
C. We have been given much as citizens of heaven
1. We have true freedom - John 8:31-32
2. But we still serve a master, but this one loves us - Romans 6:17-18, 22
3. So much has been given to us - I Peter 1:3-9
D. But it also means much is required of us - Luke 12:48
1. We are here to please the Lord - Colossians 1:9-12
E. That behavior is to be consistent whether someone is watching or not
1. Some change depending on where they are at
2. They behave one way when they are with Christians but behave differently when they are at work
a. Does you language change?
b. Do you pray when there are Christians around but skip praying when there aren’t any Christians to see you?
c. Do you study at church but you don’t open your Bible at home?
IV. What kind of behavior is important?
A. Standing fast in one spirit - Philippians 4:1
1. Again, the emphasis is on consistency - I Corinthians 15:58
2. We don’t compromise with the world
3. We are not standing alone. We are standing in unity of spirit with our fellow believers - Psalms 133:1
B. With one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel
1. Standing for what is right - I Timothy 6:12
2. Working together as a team - Jeremiah 32:39; John 17:20-21
3. Promoting the spread of the faith - Jude 3
C. In no way alarmed by your opponents
1. We are on the side of right
2. Courage is evidence of our salvation - Matthew 5:10-12
3. This is why Jeremiah was told to be courageous before those who would oppose him - Jeremiah 1:16-19
4. Ezekiel was told the same thing - Ezekiel 2:3-7; 3:5-11
5. It doesn’t mean we are rude or condescending, but when we are not to apologize for mentioning that God opposes sin and wants people to repent
6. And if we suffer, then be like the apostles - Acts 5:41-42
7. We follow the example of Christ - I Peter 2:21-24
8. Enduring persecution strengthens the individual and the team - I Peter 5:8-10
V. Notice how much conduct that is worthy of the gospel involves united efforts with your brothers and sisters
A. You can’t have the proper conduct by church-hopping and never joining with brethren in a congregation
