Philippians 2:12, 13 - Abiding in Christ and Cooperation in the Salvation Process.
Philippians 2:12, 13: Abiding in Christ and Cooperation in the
Salvation Process.
Philippians 2:12, 13 (NKJV) Therefore, my beloved, as you have
always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my
absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is
God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
Philippians 2:12, 13 (AMP) Therefore, my dear ones, as you have
always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm
you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent,
work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your
own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust,
with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against
temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit
the name of Christ). [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who
is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and
creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His
good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.
INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS
These verses must be read together for a proper understanding
A "works salvation" is not being taught. The idea is to progress
to the finish or completion in spiritual growth and maturity. This
process is what the Bible calls "sanctification." It should be noted
that v. 12 makes it clear we are to be active, not passive, in this
process. However, though we are active, we are not alone. Verse 13
reminds us again that the entire salvation process is the work of a
sovereign God and the result of His grace. "For it is God who works in
you" is the ultimate ground and basis for our salvation.
[Believers SB]
Christians allow God to work in them. The flesh cannot work
up humility or dedication; this must come from within by the power
of the Spirit. God works in us before He works through us, and He
uses the Word (1 Thes. 2:13), the Spirit (Eph. 3:16, 20-21), and
prayer. [Wiersbe Expository Outlines]
COMMENTARY
Gods great salvation is not a one-time, once-and-for-all
event for a believer. Experiencing God's salvation is actually a
dynamic, lifelong process of implementing all the power, embracing all
the love, and fulfilling all the plans He has for you.
"Work out your salvation" means to access all God has made
available to you. It is not a command to work for your salvation. It is a
call to enter into your relationship with Jesus with all that you
are.
We who are privileged to be called the children of God have a
choice. We can enjoy our status as adopted and beloved children of the
King and know abundant life in Christ, or we can live as spiritual
paupers and neglect all that is rightfully ours. It is not enough to
know in our minds that we are God's children. That truth must move
into our hearts and impact our lifestyles. Don't be like too many of
the King's children who choose to live spiritually impoverished
lives.
The process of salvation calls for us to apply energy and
effort, focus and faith. The Holy Spirit empowers, Jesus embraces us,
and God rewards us now and for eternity. [Being Still With God Every
Day by Henry Blackaby]
ILLUSTRATION
Years ago I met a man who was in the late stages of
alcoholism. I shared the simple story of Jesus and assured him that he could
be forgiven of anything and everything he had ever done. The man
responded quickly by asking Jesus to come into his life, forgive his sins,
and become his Lord and Savior. Soon after he was baptized.
That man became a good friend, and the two of us spent a lot
of time together. It was a privilege to watch him grow. But there
was one thing, one stronghold in his life, that he continued to
struggle with. He had a negative streak, and it made him unpleasant to be
around.
Then one day he came to me and said, "I complain so much I
make my own self sick." I was impressed. From that day on, my friend
worked hard to establish an attitude of gratitude. He performed every
task to the best of his ability without questioning or complaining.
Soon he became a joy to be with.
Negativity is just one of the strongholds that can cause us
to be isolated from others, just one of the issues that can impede
our spiritual growth. But God is willing to reveal our flaws to us
and help us to overcome them. Father, show me those remaining
strongholds in my life and help me to overcome them. In Jesus' name, Amen.
[Celebrate Recovery Daily Devotional by John & Johnny Baker]
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
I am the truth: the One who came to set you free. As the Holy
Spirit controls your mind and actions more fully, you become free in
Me. You are increasingly released to become the one I created you to
be. This is a work that I do in you as you yield to My Spirit. I can
do My best handiwork when you sit in the stillness of My Presence,
focusing your entire being on Me.
Let My thoughts burst freely upon your consciousness,
stimulating abundant Life. I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. As you
follow Me. I lead you along paths of newness: ways you have never
imagined. Don't worry about what is on the road up ahead. I want you to
find your security in knowing Me, the One who died to set you free.
(Joh. 8:32; Phi. 2:13; Joh. 14:6) [Jesus Calling by Sarah Young]
CLOSING THOUGHT
God made the sun. It produces more power in one second than
the human race has used throughout all of history. It has enough
energy to burn for billions of years. And it's just one of the stars
God made. That's how much power he has at his disposal.
God is the one who gives us the ability to move forward. He
has commissioned us and identified us as his own. The Spirit, not
our own power, is what equips us for God's service. This is the key
to not giving up when we get tired. The Bible says, "It is God who
works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose"
(Philippians 2:13).
When God gives you the will and the power to do something,
you'll be able to do it. He will never ask you to do something without
giving you the power to accomplish it. And his power is unlimited. He
says, "I will empower you if you trust me."
God says, "Look to me. Draw near to me. My power is
limitless, and I desire to freely give it to you." [The Daniel Plan 365-Day
Devotional re 2Co. 1:22]
LINK FOR FURTHER STUDY ON THIS PASSAGE:
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2016/20160202-1058.html
LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT
Most Important Decision in Life:
http://www.youtube.com/embed/WGnEuGwvXqU?rel=0
Seeking God Made Real: http://vimeo.com/31489782
Prayer Made Real: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tc8VdMV26VE
LINKS FOR BIBLE STUDIES AND SEMINARS
Restoring The Power by John Bradshaw:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRogO1SxoZN15Boa7BMon4BouVMdteVaq
Glow Tract Video Bible Studies: http://www.bibleresearch.info/
ABible.com: http://www.aBible.com
