In prior verses, Paul explained how his suffering was for the sake of Christ and encouraged his readers with a hope of reunion. In verse 27, Paul gives the Philippian believers one assignment: live a life worthy of the gospel before his hoped-for visit. This is similar to Paul's teaching in Ephesians 4:1: "I, therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called." He says something similar in Colossians 1:10, encouraging others to live out the truth they proclaim.
Paul desires these Christians to show unity to the world. This echoes the teachings of Christ (John 17:11, 22), who emphasized the importance of love in living out the gospel (John 13:34–35). Paul calls on his readers to live out unity, in one spirit and mind, working together "for the faith of the gospel." His goal continually remained on the gospel and its spread.