Why did the Philippians love Paul so much?
The Philippians loved Paul deeply because he had nearly died physically while in Philippi, and they personally nursed him back to health. This shared suffering and care created a strong mutual affection, with Paul holding 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. As a result, Paul had a warm spot in his heart for them, just as they did for him. Les also notes that they had experienced God's saving grace, suffered for the sake of the gospel, and given up much for the gospel, which is why Paul could urge them to follow his example for the sake of the gospel.