Worthy Citizens

July 6 | Donavon Hintz

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Paul’s letter to the Philippian church is deeply personal—written out of love and encouragement. In this section, Paul shifts the focus from himself to the Philippians. You can hear his heart for them and his desire for the gospel to be proclaimed through them. Paul knew their culture. He knew the cost of standing for Jesus in it. So when he writes these words, he does so clearly, specifically, lovingly, and directly. He desires what is best for their gospel witness, that Jesus would be put on display in great and mighty ways.

The Call to Worthy Citizenship

The Philippians would have seen their societal behavior and civic loyalty as one and the same. As Roman citizens in a Roman colony, they were expected to work for the betterment of Rome and the highest good of society. Paul is saying, “Yes, live as citizens—not of Rome or Philippi—but of Heaven.” Their heavenly citizenship supersedes their earthly one. He is calling them to live according to the customs, values, and culture of the heavenly Kingdom. He carefully crafts his words to speak into their context and encourage them to live a life that puts the gospel first—not to gain success, status, or praise—but to put Jesus on display.

Distinctives of Worthy Citizens

Paul continues by outlining the worthy behavior they are called to. Distinctives—traits that would set them apart from the culture around them. 

The first distinctive is: “standing firm in one Spirit.” This is a call to spiritual steadfastness. But Paul knows they can’t do this in their own strength. Their ability to stand firm comes from God, who has given them new life and incorporated them into His church. 

Paul then shifts to teamwork, using military terminology they would recognize: “with one mind striving side by side…” You can almost see the formation of soldiers, advancing together, covering each other’s weaknesses. In the same way, unity among believers is one of the most important things Jesus prayed for (John 17). Unity matters. It is central to our gospel witness. 

Paul finishes this section by calling them to be fearless in the face of opposition. Fear could come from two fronts: from Roman authorities who hated their un-Romanness, and from neighbors who felt judged by their different values. The word “frightened” used here refers to “startled horses.” Paul is saying: Don’t be startled. Don’t be jolted by opposition. Yes, opposition will come, but by the Spirit’s power, you can stand in unity without fear.

Grace Given to Worthy Citizens

Paul closes by reminding them of the gifts of grace they’ve received—not only salvation but also suffering. That is perhaps the most countercultural gift of all. Paul sees suffering as a privilege. The early church would say, “We count it all joy to suffer for His name.” Opposition doesn’t mean something is wrong—it may mean you’re doing something right. Seeing suffering as part of discipleship reframes it. 

Paul’s words to the church at Philippi echo through time to us today. We are called to live as citizens of a Kingdom that transcends borders and allegiances—a Kingdom that will push against cultural norms. We are to stand firm in the Spirit, unified, and fearless. When we live like this, the world sees something different—something holy. This kind of life doesn’t spare us from suffering, but our suffering brings us closer to Jesus.