Philippians 1:1-5, Intro to Gospel Unity
Saints[1]: In the same way the name "Christian" identifies us with Christ, the name "holy ones" identifies us with the Holy Spirit. Our identity aligns our purpose with the work of the Holy Spirit; namely, to glorify the Son of God-Jesus Christ.[2] Only saints are enabled by the Spirit to glorify Christ, and we are commanded to do so.[3] Glorifying Christ naturally occurs when we participate with and encourage one another to live in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ (1:27).[4] Saints cultivate a community that reflects God's love and grace.
Participation[5]: Our participation with one another is defined by the Gospel. It occurs within the framework of the church, specifically in close and unified relationships.[6] When a saint excludes himself from serving others it affects the church. Yet there are times when, in our flesh, we can easily hinder this aspect of the Gospel, which is why we need each other. As partakers of the same grace, we strive to walk united-in a manner worthy of the Gospel (as we pray, as we grow in holiness, and as we encourage one another towards our heavenly home). The word of God is the catalyst for our participation with one another in this walk. When it drives our lives, we can lovingly encourage one another beyond prayer unto encouragement even to admonishment.
[1] The literal translation for saint is holy ones, from the Gk. hagios (ἅγιος). Hagios is the same term used to describe the third Person of the Trinity-the Holy (Hagios) Spirit. Ultimately, our identity is found in God.
[2] John 16:14: He [Holy Spirit] will glorify Me [Jesus Christ], for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you.
[3] 1 Pet. 1:15: but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior.
[4] Saints ought to serve one another until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature of which belongs to the fullness of Christ (Eph. 4:13).
[5] From the Gk. term koinonia (κοινωνία) which means participation or fellowship. It is derived from koino-o which means to "have in common" or "to share." The object that Christians have in common is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Consequently, we have unity with one another.
[6] The Bible has several word pictures to describe the church: body, building, vine, etc. They all imply unity.