Why did the Philippians love Paul so much and why was he so warm toward them?
The Philippians loved Paul so much mostly because he nearly went into physical death in Philippi, and they nursed him back to strength. Paul therefore had a warm spot in his heart for them, just as they did for him.
Les explains that the Philippians had loved the apostle so much, mostly because he nearly went into physical death in Philippi and they nursed him back to strength. That is why Paul had a warm spot in his heart for them, as they did for him. He then urges them, "Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them who walk so as you have us for an example." Les notes that they had experienced God's saving grace, suffered for the sake of the gospel, and given up so much for it, so Paul says to be willing to follow him for the sake of the gospel.
Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.