Introduction:   There is a growing problem among many Churches across America. Some Churches have let too much of the world in and left God out! There was a serious problem facing the Church in Philippi. The hearers were eager to hear God's truth, but not so eager to apply it to their-selves. So Paul in v27 calls on the Church to, "Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ..." "Conversation" = “manner of life.” The word "becometh" means “fitting.”  Only let your manner of life be as it is fitting to The Gospel of Christ.  How can we do that? By hearing the Word of God and applying it to our lives (James 1:22). Here, in our text, are 3 calls to the Church. WHAT ARE THEY?

I.           A CALL TO STAND (V.27a)

·         The basis for this plea is that the war is on! 

Ephesians 6:11, says, "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."

·         V28 tells us the battle is with our adversaries (1 Peter 5:8).

·         We must be united in this effort.  Paul, told the Church at Corinth,

(2 Cor. 13:11) “Finally, brethren…be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.”

II.        A CALL TO STRIVE (VV.27b – 28)

·          “Striving” means “contending.” 

It suggests a team effort against the forces of Satan.

·         Contending for what?

"For the faith of the gospel" The whole body of inspired and revealed Truth (Jude 1:3) "Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints."

·         Such a task calls for boldness, courage, and fearlessness. Paul continues his plea in v28.

(1 John 4:4) "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."

·         Never fear the enemies of the Gospel!

But rather let us heed the words of 1 Cor. 15:58 "My beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in the LORD."

III.       A CALL TO SUFFER (V.29) 

(2 Tim. 3:12) “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”

1 Peter 4:12-19

Conclusion:     Will you answer God's calls to stand, to strive, and even suffer for the faith of the Gospel as a Church of the Living God? We must maintain a united front against Satan and his forces. Will you serve faithfully in this place where God has placed you?  This Church or any Church is only as strong as its least committed member!