These verses lay the foundation of the next section. The main thrust is this command to live a life worthy of the gospel, but the underlying tone that will become the main theme, all the way though Chapter 2 is unity.

The outcome of this gospel focus is a deep, radical unity in the church. A unity as we strive together. A unity rooted in what Christ accomplished in the cross. A unity that makes us shine like stars in a wicked world. And a unity that is put on display through the lives and service of Timothy and Epaphroditus, these great humble servants of the church. But first he starts with the most basic foundation of all of it; who are we? What are we about What is important in this life?