Politeuesthe
Politeuesthe!! Here is a greek word that we really need to understand. Paul is using it here to show the phillipian christians how to live their lives.
Our passage today is Phillipians 1: 27: 30
27Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
This portion of scripture encourages us to walk in a way that is worthy of the gospel. You see Paul’s suffering for the gospel is for the sake of the gospel. To see the gospel working out in peoples lives. Even though Paul finds joy through his suffering, the purpose of suffering is to see Jesus Christ glorified. Therefore it is important to note that Paul’s encouragement in Phillipians chapter 1 is to live a life worthy of the gospel of Christ. In other words:
- To overflow with love (vs 9)
- To live pure and blameless lives (vs 10)
The encouragement is not to suffer but should this lifestyle bring suffering, then suffer in the knowledge that it is for the gospel of Christ – and this will bring you joy.
Politeuesthe means to behave as citizens worthy [of the gospel of Christ]. The keyword in this definition is ‘citizens’. A citizen is member of a town, a city, a nation and we are members of God’s kingdom.
A citizens lives by the law of the land, supports the land and it’s people and ultimately is united with the other citizens of the land to a common desire and purpose.
Our citizenship in Christ’s kingdom should lead us to live a life worthy of the gospel. A life that calls us to behave as citizens of a most holy, wonderful, glorious, mighty Lord of Lords and King of Kings.
Our citizenship approach that Paul asks of us here, would mean that we obey the law of Christ, live for the body of Christ and be focused on God’s plan rather than our own. That way we will experience joy as we see God’s plan work out and advance in the lives of people all over this world.
