Philippians Bible Study - More videos by me, Jim Gatton, at http://UnderstandScripture.org and also my YouTube channel: http://VideoDailyDevotions.org. Consider sharing on Facebook and elsewhere.
Early on I said Joseph was accused of rape. I was wrong. Maybe we'd call it attempted rape. He was only accused and not guilty.
27 Only one thing concerns me, whatever happens, be sure that you conduct yourselves well, live as citizens of heaven, in a way that brings honor to, or is worthy of, the good news of the gospel of Christ. Then whether I come and visit, you or I am away from you, I would choose to hear that you are standing strong with one purpose, with one spirit, that you work together as one, with one mind/soul for the faith and the good news,
again
27 Only be sure as citizens to conduct yourselves that your manner of life will be worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I do come and see you or am forever absent, I may know this of you: that you are standing firm in united spirit and purpose, striving side by side and contending with a single mind for the faith of the Gospel.

Only one thing concerns me...
Only be sure as citizens...
"Only" somewhat stern - As in "you better..." conduct yourselves...worthy of Christ" As opposed to many of today's sermons...emphasis not Grandfather in Heaven but Father...God expects...

but no list of do's and don'ts: more a heart check. More concerned with rights and privileges or honoring Christ with your life.
In chapter 3 we'll see a more obvious warning
They must not compromise their church life or their responsibilities as citizens...
Ephesians 4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.
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Christian life
1. not obviously constantly worrying

1.
1. not frequently complaining about everything
2. refined; not party hard
3. property inside and out not embarrasement to your neighbors


Live According to your Spiritual Birthright

1. saved. Child of God
1. king of kings adopted you into His family!!!!



28 do not be frightened or intimidated in anyway by those who are against you, your opponents. All of this is proof, evidence, a sign, that your enemies will be destroyed but that you will be saved. And this salvation, or this proof, this evidence, that this is from God.

28 and do not for a moment be frightened or intimidated in anything by your opponents and adversaries, for such fearlessness on your part will be a clear sign, proof and seal, to them of their impending destruction, but a sure token and evidence of your deliverance and salvation from from God.

heart of his immediate message? Do not be frightened by opposition to Christ; bold; brave
Use in the Greek is fear as in the stampede of horses or cattle
Don't be scared into a stampede
Two major principles Paul has established:

1. Faithfulness of God in preserving His church in every age so that even the forces of hell can not destroy it.
2. The judgment of God which He ultimately executes against all who oppose the church.
29 God gave you the honor for it has been given to you not only of believing in Christ but also suffering for him.
29 for you have been granted the privilege for Christ's sake not only to believe in, but to adhere to, to rely on, and trust in him, and also to suffer in his behalf.
"God gave you" privilege of suffering for Christ. Privilege so rejoice in it!
difficult for some encountering poverty or illness to rejoice in Christ but you are ordered to do so.
Difficult? Daily prayer include for His strength and guidance.
there is no accident involved in suffering for Christ
Greatly simplified; suffering of Joseph in OT.
brothers came to hate him, threw into hole, sold into slavery; jailed on false charge, learned so much/so faithful to God, Pharaoh made 2nd in command of entire nation!
30 You yourselves are having the same kind of struggles that you saw I had when I was with you, and you hear that I am still having now.
30 so you are engaged in the same conflict which you saw me wage in which you now hear to be mine even now.
Christians in Philippi and Christians today encouraged by example of Paul
your sufferings cannot compare to those of Paul but we are called to be encouraged by him;
he kept the faith
not only in regular prayer and the routine stuff
but actively living the Christian life AND WITNESSING AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY
Are you saved? Repent and believe.