Your Conduct. Philippians 1:27. “Only let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent; I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind, striving together of the faith of the gospel;” Our “conversation” or “manner of life” can refer to our obligations as citizens. The citizens of Philippi understood that they were a privileged colony of the Roman Empire, and they had to conduct their lives in a way that was consistent with that earthly citizenship. Paul explained that they were now to live in a manner that honored their heavenly citizenship. This was a completely new perspective for them, calling for a righteous way of life that honored God.
It is expected of us that we obey the “powers that be,” but we must remember that our true citizenship is in heaven. To this citizenship and its genuine, lasting obligations, we are called to live righteously and holy. The Gospel sets appropriate standards and goals that we need to follow. To conduct ourselves “worthy of the Gospel of Christ” involves maintaining true unity among believers in a church community. This unity is only sustainable through the guidance and leadership of the Holy Spirit. Our attitude toward God and each other as believers is very important, especially when the Gospel faces opposition. Believers must stand together and work together for the faith of the Gospel.
I am being observed, though I may never realize that each daily action and act I do reveals what truly matters to me in some way. My behavior and my choices show what is real and meaningful to me. That makes it impossible for me to hide what I genuinely believe. The faith of the Gospel has never lost its appeal to me, not just to me but to the gathered community who meet in fellowship each Sunday. There, we declare what is important to us with a clear and united voice, for He alone is central in the Gospel of Christ.
The Spirit of God encourages us through the words of the apostle Paul to stand firm in our spirits and our convictions that come from God. This way, we can unite in the work of the Gospel with our minds focused on what is of eternal significance, without being distracted. The faith of the Gospel includes the doctrine of salvation—how a person can be saved and what it means to be saved. Baptism, which identifies a person with the Lord Jesus Christ and obeys the commands given in the Great Commission, is also part of the faith of the Gospel.
Some believe hearing the Gospel preached is unnecessary because they feel secure in their salvation. They find it enough to enjoy the journey to heaven, comfortable to let others come to them with questions. Then, they think they’ll be able to explain why they are different. However, few people actually approach them asking how to be saved when they blend in with the world. The power of believers acting with one spirit and unity, through their spoken words, enhances the message of the Gospel. This is demonstrated through the behavior and lifestyle of more than one Christian. The value of a soul, their love for God, and the cost of redemption—when Christ gave His life on the cross so that those enslaved by sin can be forever free—is not a casual or relaxed topic. The message we communicate through words, actions, and what we live for is of eternal significance.
My behavior when I am alone might not have much impact. When I am with my family, it can teach my children how to act and show that what I believe and practice should matter to them. To my wife, it clearly shows how I truly feel, and she can tell when I am faking it and when I am genuine. When I am around unsaved people, they will see what I think about God. Other believers know whether I truly honor Jesus as Lord. If my actions are one way, but my attitude is different, my heavenly Father knows my pretense. Therefore, a lesson in conduct is to constantly live in a way that others can see the Gospel.
It is crucial that we resist anything that could divide God's people. Some efforts to cause division originate from outside, but most that divide the saints come from within the fellowship of the assembly. It is not right for us to insist that everything be done our way. We should consider the judgment of others, and maintain cooperation as long as the truth is not compromised or overlooked. A strong, unified testimony is built on scriptural, settled, and solemn convictions. A humble, united attitude among each believer helps the evangelist preach the Gospel confidently. It also enables the teacher, shepherd, minister, and every believer to participate effectively in the local fellowship.