In Philippians 1:24-27 we see that while Paul was certainly tempted to want to depart life on earth to be with Christ, he understood that others still needed him; that his work was not yet done. “But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account.” So while allowing for the possibility of his martyrdom, he told the Philippians that he expects to be spared at this time. “Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.”
Paul was confident and full of faith, yet stops short of absolute certainty. His lack of absolute certainty should be a comfort to us. Even the great apostle Paul did not have certainty about the future. Knowing now what happened, Paul survived this imprisonment, was set free, and was martyred later at Rome. He did come to visit the Philippians again. Paul’s friendship with the Philippians was so close that he knew that they would be rejoicing to see him again. He planned to return to see them, and in fact that was what God allowed. But since he was imprisoned and unable to be with them as he wrote this, he gives direction on how they should act as they wait for his return.
Paul wanted the Philippians to work together for the cause of the gospel. “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ….”. The ancient Greek word translated “manner of life” means literally, “to live as a citizen.” Paul told the Philippians to be good, patriotic citizens of the kingdom of God. This is a theme he will draw on again in Philippians. And he wanted to be sure they knew he would be watching and they were accountable to him based on how they lived. He is clear that he’ll be checking up on them. “….so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you….”.
And what was his expectation? Paul wanted to know that the Philippian church stayed together as one body, without becoming fragmented and divided. “….that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel….”. Paul wanted their unity to be put to a productive purpose, so that an increasing trust and belief in the good news of Jesus Christ would be promoted among those who already believed and among those who had yet to believe. He knows that the gospel is overshadowed by division and conflict in the body, so he presses the Philippians to be one in the Spirit so the gospel could be effective.
Arlin Sorensen's Thoughts on Scripture 