As Paul shifts and begins to address the specific needs of the church at Philippi, Paul begins with a direct challenge to "walk worthy of the gospel of Jesus." The result of walking worthy is standing firm in one spirit, single minded contending for the faith of the gospel and no being intimidated by your opponents. The interconnectedness of the church body is critical to walking worthy of the gospel of Jesus. Paul assures the believers in Philippi that it is worthwhile, this is worth it and will be in eternity. Ultimately, your opponents will face the judgment and consequences of their sins. In contrast, you will be experience the salvation of God, fully and completely in glorification. Believers, we must walk worthy of the gospel because it affirms and calls others to believe. 

Philippians is a wonderful letter of hopeful encouragement for believers who are struggling with their concern about Paul and his current circumstances, struggling with their thinking about several different issues including: assurance, perseverance, the gospel and mission, partnership, fellowship and unity, and joy. Paul offers specific theological foundations for right thinking about engaging one another in the church. This foundation begins with a right understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he came to accomplish. It is also built on a right approach to the gospel and gospel ministry. This church needs to understand the importance of working together for the advance of the gospel in the church and in their community.