Only walk in a manner worthy

“Only walk in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ . . . standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”

Philippians 1:27

I was convicted while reading this passage the other day.  To  truly walk in a manner worthy of the gospel is a feat that is incomprehensible in the flesh.  Indeed, even with the Spirit of God within us, we will not be sanctified to the point of completion until we see our Saviour face to face.  The entire discourse following this statement builds on it.  The Christian life that Paul lays out in this passage seems to be built on four principles (2:1).

1.  Consolation of love
2. Fellowship of the Spirit
3. Affection
4. Compassion

Now, the third and forth point may be referring to a similar idea, but I chose to list them separately.  It is interesting to note the similarities and differences between these four and the four that build on the former.  These four are those which will make Paul’s joy “complete.”  They are as follows (2:2).

1. Being of the same mind.
2. Maintaining the same love
3. United in spirit
4. Intent on one purpose

So what is the difference?  The first may to some extent may be done alone.  There is a love that comforts those in need.  There is a fellowship with the Spirit on a personal level.  There can perhaps be an affection and compassion that act similar to love.  But there is something more with the second set.  Walking in a manner worthy does not imply walking only on a personal level, but striving together with the entire body of Christ.  To love someone because you are the one actively displaying that love for all to see is not true love.  True love is a love that strives to form a bond with brethren and work for the good of others as a body and not only as individuals.  Fellowship with the spirit of God is important to our lives.  We could not live without it, but without a deep fellowship and union with the spirits of all in the body, we are not walking in a manner worthy.  If we are not intent on one purpose (the gospel, 1:27) we are not walking in a manner worthy.  Chapter 2:3-4 sums up the preceding two verses:

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.”

May that truly be our lot in life!

Paul continues through chapter 2:18 on this theme and the attitude of Christ in 2:5-12 is indeed something that we should strive for.  Many more observations could be made in this passage, but I think the reader may observe them himself.

God Bless.