From day one, the Philippians partnered with Paul in the work of the gospel (Philippians 1:5). They did so financially (Philippians 4:14–20) and presumably prayerfully (Philippians 4:14–20). What a joy this was for Paul! There is nothing more discouraging than to have to pull the saints' hair out in order to get them involved in the ministry and life of the church. And there is nothing more uplifting and encouraging than when the saints are itching to be partners in the gospel, eager to serve the saints, eager to exercise their prophetic office by sharing the good news to a world that is hurting, lost, and confused, separated from Christ, strangers to God’s promises, without hope and without God in this world (Ephesians 2:12). May it be so among us! God has given each of us, each of you unique gifts and The body of Christ is duty-bound to use his gifts readily and cheerfully for the benefit and well-being of one another. And the church also has a prophetic duty to win neighbours for Christ.
5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.