I have been working on Philippians for the Concordia Commentary Series for many years, and in this context have considered Paul’s pandering to the Roman sensitivities of the Philippians (Phil 1:27-30). After reviewing the text, I shall present the proud history of Philippi (going back to the Battle of Philippi in 42 B.C.) and what the apostle might mean in his opening salvo that the Philippians should “conduct their citizenship in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (1:27a)—matters worthy of reflection during our own nation’s 250 th anniversary. We shall conclude the presentation by singing a hymn related to the manifestation of Paul’s martial spirit.