Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians, “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel”  (Philippians 1:27)

What does Paul mean by, “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ”?  A truer translation would actually read, “Only/Solely live as citizens worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ…” Philippians knew the value of Roman citizenship. Those who were citizens of Rome were proud of it and knew the privileges that accompanied such an honor.  They also knew that Roman citizenship brought with it great responsibility.  Paul is telling the Philippians that they possess a citizenship that is greatly more important and is to be valued more than being a Roman citizen, or for us, a citizen of any nation, state or municipality.  Philippian Christians, as well as ourselves ought to cherish our citizenship in Jesus’ kingdom.

What does it mean to live as citizens worthy of the Gospel?

Having been granted this great gift of citizenship in Jesus’ Kingdom by God’s grace we are to live our lives proud of such a status and exhibiting to the world what it means to be saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.

Paul also tells us in Colossians 1:10-12:

“to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him:

bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;

12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.”

Paul not only wants us to have knowledge of the Gospel, he desires for us to be transformed by it. Having been transformed we are able to constantly strive to please God in every way by living in harmony with His will.  We are able to bear the fruits of faith by having thoughts, speaking words, and doing deeds that are pleasing to God.  As we grow in the knowledge of God, we grow in the knowledge of the salvation He has granted us which results in growth of our love for Him and a desire to live a holy life.

There is a saying, “Knowledge is power.” As we grow in our knowledge of our Lord through His Word the Holy Spirit fills us with spiritual strength and power so that we are able to endure all things with patience and live our lives confident in Him with great joy.

Sometimes I wonder if we truly grasp the great value of our spiritual citizenship.  I wonder if we understand and appreciate the privileges and honor that accompanies such a status.  God has qualified us “to share in the inheritance of the saints of light.” That’s amazing!  We do not deserve it; we are not qualified; yet God has done it!  May we always rejoice in this and constantly give thanks to God for what He has done.  May we also by His grace and power strive to live as responsible citizens of His Kingdom that has no end.

~ Pastor Webb