Matthew Henry Commentary Philippians 1:27-30

"Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ: that, whether I come and see you and be absent, I may hear of your state, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing affrighted by the adversaries: which is for them an evident token of perdition, but of your salvation, and that from God; because to you it hath been granted in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer in his behalf: having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me." — Philippians 1:27-30 (ASV)

Those who profess the gospel of Christ should live as befits those who believe gospel truths, submit to gospel laws, and depend upon gospel promises. The original word “conversation” denotes the conduct of citizens who seek the credit, safety, peace, and prosperity of their city. There is that in the faith of the gospel which is worth striving for; there is much opposition, and there is a need for striving.

A person may sleep and go to hell; but anyone who would go to heaven must be watchful and diligent. There may be oneness of heart and affection among Christians, where there is diversity of judgment about many things. Faith is God's gift on behalf of Christ; the ability and disposition to believe are from God.

And if we suffer reproach and loss for Christ, we are to count them as a gift, and prize them accordingly. Yet salvation must not be ascribed to bodily afflictions, as if afflictions and worldly persecutions deserved it; but salvation is from God alone: faith and patience are his gifts.