“Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27 ESV)

This can also be translated:  “behave as citizens worthy of the gospel of Christ.”  This sounds similar to what Paul says in 3:20:  “but our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”  The Philippians were proud Roman citizens, as are many in America today.  There is a temptation to place one’s trust in country or government, but our citizenship is in heaven.  Our identity, hope, allegiance & affections are first and foremost upon God.  Since we are citizens of heaven, we gain our identity from the gospel which propels us to live our lives increasingly in ways that glorify God and reflect Him – whether our leaders (Paul in this case) are around or not, because Christ is our King.