Philippians 1:6
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Being confident - There shall be nothing lacking on God's part to support you; and to make you wise, holy and happy; and bring you at last to his kingdom and glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
confident--This confidence nerves prayers and thanksgivings (Phi 1:3-4). this very thing--the very thing which he prays for (Phi 1:4) is the matter of his believing confidence (Mar 11:24; Jo1 5:14-15). Hence the result is sure. he which hath begun--God (Phi 2:13). a good work--Any work that God begins, He will surely finish (Sa1 3:12). Not even men begin a work at random. Much more the fact of His beginning the work is a pledge of its completion (Isa 26:12). So as to the particular work here meant, the perfecting of their fellowship in the Gospel (Phi 1:5; Psa 37:24; Psa 89:33; Psa 138:8; Joh 10:28-29; Rom 8:29, Rom 8:35-39; Rom 11:1-2 Heb 6:17-19; Jam 1:17; Jde 1:24). As God cast not off Israel for ever, though chastening them for a time, so He will not cast off the spiritual Israel (Deu 33:3; Isa 27:3; Pe1 1:5). perform it until--"perfect it up to" [ALFORD, ELLICOTT, and others]. the day of . . . Christ-- (Phi 1:10). The Lord's coming, designed by God in every age of the Church to be regarded as near, is to be the goal set before believers' minds rather than their own death.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Being confident of this very thing,.... The reason of his thanksgiving, and of his making request with joy continually on the behalf of this church, was the confidence and full persuasion he had of this same thing, of which he could be as much assured as of any thing in the world: that he which hath begun a good work in you, will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: by this good work is not meant the preaching of the Gospel among them, nor a Gospel church state set up in the midst of them: for though the preaching of the Gospel was a good work, and issued well in the conversion of many, in their edification and comfort, and which was still continued; and though a Gospel church state was erected among them, and was now flourishing, yet the apostle could not assure himself of the continuance of either of them, especially until the day of Christ; and both have been removed from thence many hundreds of years ago: nor is their liberal communication to the support of the Gospel intended; for though this was a good work, yet this was not wrought by God, but by themselves, and was not wrought in them, but done by them; nor their good lives and conversations. The Syriac version indeed renders it "good works", but these cannot be designed, for the same reasons as before; for though they are good things, and answer many valuable ends and purposes, yet they are external works done by men, and not internal ones wrought in them by God; wherefore by it is undoubtedly meant the work of grace upon their hearts, sometimes called the work of faith, because that is a principal part of it: this is God's work, and not man's, as may be concluded from the nature of the work itself, which is the transforming of a man by the reviewing of him, a regeneration, a resurrection, and a creation, and therefore requires almighty power; and from the condition man is in by nature, he is dead in sin, and has no power to act spiritually, and much less what is equal to such a work as this; he has no will, desire, and inclination to it, but all the reverse; and if he had, he could no more effect it, than the dry bones in Ezekiel's vision could cause themselves to live. This is the work of God. Sometimes it is ascribed to the Father, who regenerates, calls by his grace, reveals his Son, and draws souls unto him; and sometimes to the Son, who quickens whom he will, whose Spirit is given, whose image is stamped, and out of whose fulness grace is received; but more commonly it is attributed to the Spirit, who is a spirit of regeneration, sanctification, and faith: and this is a "good work", as it must needs be, since it is God's work; he is the efficient cause of it; his good will and pleasure, his grace and mercy are the moving cause of it, and not men's works; and his good word is the means of it. The matter of it is good; it is an illumination of the understanding, a subduing of the will, a taking away of the stony heart, and a giving of an heart of flesh, an infusion of spiritual life, a formation of Christ in the soul, and an implantation of all grace there: it is good in its effects; it makes a man a good man, and fits and qualifies him to perform good works, which without it he cannot do; it makes a man a proper habitation for God, and gives him meetness for the heavenly inheritance. And this is an internal work, a work begun "in" the saints; nothing external is this work; not an outward reformation, which, when right, is the fruit of this good work; nor external humiliation for sin; nor a cessation from the grosser acts of sin; nor a conformity and submission to Gospel ordinances; all which may be where this work is not; but it is something within a man; as appears from the names by which it goes; such as spirit, so called, because it is of a spiritual nature, wrought by the Spirit of God, and has its seat in the spirit of man; it is called the inward man, which is renewed day by day; a seed that remains in him, and a root which is out of sight, and oil in the vessel, the heart, as distinct from the lamp of an outward profession: as also from the several things, which, together, make up the subject of it; it is the understanding which is enlightened; the will which is subdued; the heart and inward parts in which the laws of God are written; the mind and conscience, which are sprinkled with the blood of Christ, and cleansed; and the affections, which are set on divine objects. This is a begun work, and but a begun one. It may be said to be begun as soon as light is let into the soul by the Spirit of God; when it sees its lost state, and need of a Saviour, for as the first thing in the old creation was light, so in the new; when the fear of God is put into the heart, which is the beginning of wisdom; when love appears in the soul to God, to Christ, to his people, word, and ordinances; and when there are the seeing, venturing, and relying acts of faith on Christ, though there is a great deal of darkness, trembling, and unbelief; and when it is got thus far, and even much further, it is but a begun work; it is not yet finished and perfect: this appears from the several parts of this work, which are imperfect, as faith, hope, love, knowledge, &c. from the indwelling of sin, and corruption in the best of saints; from their various continual wants and necessities; from their disclaiming perfection in this life, and their desires after it. But the apostle was confident, and so may every good man be confident, both for himself and others, that God who has, and wherever he has begun the good work of grace, will "perform", finish it, or bring it to an end, as the word here used signifies: and this the saints may assure themselves of, from many considerations; as from the nature of the work itself, which is called living water, because it always continues, a well of it, because of its abundance, and is said to spring up to eternal life; because it is inseparably connected with it, where there is grace, there will be glory; grace is the beginning of glory, and glory the perfection of grace; this work of grace is an incorruptible seed, and which remains in the saints, and can never be lost; it is a principle of life, the root of which is hid in Christ, and that itself is maintained by him, and can never be destroyed by men or devils: and also from the concern God has in it, who is unchangeable in his nature, purposes, promises, gifts, and calling; who is a rock, and his work is perfect sooner or later; who is faithful, and will never forsake the work of his hands, and has power to accomplish it; and who has promised his people, that they shall grow stronger and stronger, that they shall not depart from him, and he will never leave them. Moreover, this may be concluded from the indwelling of the Spirit, as a spirit of sanctification, as the earnest and seal of the inheritance, and that for ever; and from the intercession and fulness of grace in Christ, and the saints' union to him, and standing in him; as well as front the impotency of any to hinder the performance of this work, as sin, Satan, or the world: to which may be added the glory of all the three Persons herein concerned; for if this work is not finished, the glory of God the Father in election, in the covenant of grace, in the contrivance of salvation, in the mission of his Son, the glory of Christ in redemption, and of the Spirit in sanctification, would be entirely lost: wherefore it may be depended on, this work will be performed wherever it is begun, and that "until the day of Jesus Christ"; meaning either the day of death, when Christ takes the souls of believers to himself, and they shall be for ever with him, when this work of grace upon the soul will be finished; for God, who is the guide of his people, will be their God and guide even unto death: or else the last day, the day of judgment, the resurrection day, when Christ shall appear and raise the dead, and free the bodies of the saints from all their bondage, corruption, vileness, and weakness, which will be putting the last and finishing hand to this good work; nor will even the bodies of the saints be quitted by the Spirit of God till this is done.
Philippians 1:6
Thanksgiving and Prayer
5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,6being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Dating Sermon
By Paul Washer23K1:34:25DatingISA 1:6MAT 6:331CO 13:11EPH 6:12PHP 1:62TI 2:22HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the issue of young men in today's society, referring to them as "mall waifs" who spend their time playing video games and hanging out at malls. The speaker emphasizes the importance of men working, striving, fighting, studying, and thinking. He also mentions the world's perspective on beauty and contrasts it with what the Bible says about beauty. The speaker then transitions to discussing the qualities of a godly husband, including laying down his life for his wife, having integrity and respect for her, and providing for her economically. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about an art exhibit the speaker visited in Lima, Peru, where he encountered a provocative image of a naked woman in a bathtub.
(Nicaragua) I Have Labored in Vain
By David Wilkerson12K44:15MinistryISA 49:1MAT 6:33ROM 8:281CO 15:58GAL 6:9PHP 1:6HEB 4:15In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of a missionary who became discouraged after five years of laboring in a certain nation without seeing any results. Despite God's promises, the missionary felt empty and dry, pretending to be happy at conferences while secretly hurting inside. Another missionary, David Livingston, also experienced a similar feeling of laboring in vain after 23 years of work in Africa. The speaker also mentions George Bowling, a missionary who gave up his wealth and comfort to serve in Bombay, India, but also felt like his work was in vain. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not losing hope and continuing to trust in God's promises, even when it seems like our efforts are fruitless.
Beatitudes/clothed in Christ 1
By Paul Washer10K48:40BeatitudesMAT 5:48MAT 11:28ROM 7:182CO 5:17GAL 3:27PHP 1:6HEB 12:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power and authority of true prophets of God. He highlights how the prophets in the Bible, including Paul, delivered strong and sometimes uncomfortable messages to Israel. However, the mark of a true prophet is that they also offer hope and redemption, inviting people to come to God for healing and restoration. The speaker then shifts to discussing the Christian life, emphasizing that true blessedness comes from experiencing the presence and glory of Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to focus on becoming more like Jesus and to prioritize character transformation over mere actions or accomplishments. The sermon concludes by examining the importance of Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the significance of Jesus opening his mouth to teach the disciples.
(True Disciple Conference) the Greatest Words in All of Scripture
By Paul Washer9.3K1:40:48SalvationMAT 6:33ROM 3:23ROM 3:25EPH 2:8PHP 1:6In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing a horrifying scenario where a person's family is violently slaughtered. He then compares this to the justice system, where the murderer is brought before a loving judge who inexplicably sets him free. The speaker uses this analogy to emphasize the true meaning of the cross and the sacrifice of Jesus. He goes on to explain the brutal physical suffering that Jesus endured, highlighting the significance of his death for the forgiveness of sins. The speaker also challenges the idea of treating Jesus' death lightly and calls for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the magnitude of his sacrifice.
The Vine and the Branches
By Paul Washer5.9K1:04:27HAB 3:17JHN 15:1JHN 15:4PHP 1:6COL 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that only God can enable us to live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in all respects. He dismisses the idea of relying on formulas or steps, stating that God will destroy all our self-made plans and leave us dependent on Christ alone. The speaker highlights Jesus' statement that He is the true vine, emphasizing that our life flows from Him and our purpose is to bear fruit and glorify the Father. He also emphasizes the importance of training and discipline in the Christian life, comparing it to the rigorous training of Olympic athletes.
(1 Samuel) How to Kill a Giant
By David Guzik3.9K44:241SA 17:311SA 17:34MAT 6:33PHP 1:6In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a boxing match to illustrate the story of David and Goliath. He emphasizes that Saul, like a boxer looking at the "tail of the tape," only saw the physical differences between David and Goliath and believed there was no way David could win. However, the preacher highlights that God's perspective, represented by the "tail of God's tape," showed that David could not lose because God was with him. The preacher encourages young people to not let others despise their youth but to be an example in their words, conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity. He concludes by discussing David's boldness in offering to fight Goliath and how it was not arrogance but rather a genuine trust in God.
Great Men by the Grace of God
By Paul Washer3.2K44:53Grace Of GodPSA 51:17ISA 64:6EZK 36:22MAT 6:33JHN 3:161CO 1:26PHP 1:6In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the cultural significance of the film "What Dreams May Come" and how it portrays heaven. He emphasizes that even in our modern culture, there is a recognition of the existence of God. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about his wife's conversion and highlights the importance of true faith in God. He concludes by reminding the audience of God's sovereignty and the need to continually seek Him in prayer.
Benediction for the Zion of God
By John Alexander Dowie2.7K01:06SanctificationDivine Preservation2CO 13:14PHP 1:61TH 5:22John Alexander Dowie emphasizes the importance of abstaining from all appearances of evil and calls for complete sanctification by God. He prays for the preservation of the whole spirit, soul, and body until the return of Jesus Christ, highlighting the need for faithfulness in ensuring all is well. Dowie invokes the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, asking for blessings and guidance for all believers.
(Genesis) Genesis 42:29-38
By J. Vernon McGee2.7K04:13GenesisGEN 42:29GEN 42:35GEN 42:38PHP 1:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jacob and his sons in the land of Canaan. The brothers return to their father and tell him about their encounter with the man who is the Lord of the land. They explain that the man accused them of being spies and demanded that they leave one of their brothers behind as proof of their honesty. Jacob is distraught and fears losing his son Benjamin, as he had already lost Joseph. Reuben offers to take responsibility for Benjamin's safety, but Jacob refuses to let him go. The sermon emphasizes Jacob's deep attachment to Benjamin and his pessimistic outlook, contrasting it with the biblical teachings of faith and trust in God's plan.
Man's 2 Problems: The Condemnation & Power of Sin
By Paul Washer2.7K1:20:09MAT 11:28ROM 3:23ROM 6:232CO 5:17EPH 2:8PHP 1:61JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the meaning of holiness. He explains that holiness not only signifies being separate from sin, but also being distinct and supreme like God. The preacher uses the analogy of pigs and men to illustrate the transformation that occurs when a person becomes a Christian. Before conversion, humans are sinners by nature, loving sin and moral filth. However, through the work of God, the moment a person becomes a Christian, they begin to hate the things they once loved and love God instead. The preacher also discusses the two problems that humans face: the condemnation of sin and the power of sin. He explains that through the works of justification and regeneration, both of these problems are resolved. Prior to coming to Christ, humans are under the wrath of God and deserve eternal condemnation. However, through the justifying work of Christ, this problem is taken away. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus lived a perfect life in obedience to God, and through his sacrifice, believers are justified and their sins are forgiven. Additionally, the preacher discusses the problem of the power of sin. Before conversion, humans are under the power of sin, but through regeneration, they are transformed and given a new heart. The preacher encourages believers to reflect on their own experiences of conversion and the fundamental change that occurred in their lives through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that becoming a Christian is not simply a decision to live differently, but a genuine transformation into a new person. The sermon references verses 21 and 17, although the specific Bible translation is not mentioned.
The Nature of Conversion
By Paul Washer2.3K51:48ConversionISA 6:5EZK 36:22EZK 36:24JOL 2:28MAT 6:33ACT 1:8PHP 1:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of salvation and the power of God in transforming lives. He criticizes the prevalent blasphemous preaching and shallow understanding of conversion in evangelical Christianity in America. The preacher highlights the need for a genuine revelation of God's power in salvation, rather than reducing it to a mere decision or testimony. He emphasizes that salvation is a supernatural work of the Spirit, and that without the regenerating power of God, people remain blind to the truth of Jesus.
(Pdf Book) When We Have Failed, What Next?
By K.P. Yohannan2.2K00:00Hope in FailureGod's RestorationEbooksISA 61:1JER 29:11MAT 11:28LUK 23:43ROM 8:282CO 1:4PHP 1:6JAS 4:61PE 5:81JN 1:9K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of recognizing and learning from our failures rather than being held captive by them. He illustrates that God offers hope and restoration, using biblical examples of figures like Moses, David, and Peter, who experienced significant failures yet were redeemed and used by God. The sermon encourages believers to embrace the gift of today, accept God's forgiveness, and understand that their past does not define their future. Yohannan reassures that God can transform failures into opportunities for growth and service, reminding us that our stories are not over yet.
(Through the Bible) Philippians 1
By Chuck Smith2.0K59:12MAT 10:19ACT 16:6ACT 26:1PHP 1:2PHP 1:63JN 1:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the events leading up to Paul's imprisonment in Rome. Despite Paul's warning, the captain of the ship decided to set sail, resulting in a severe storm that lasted for 14 days. Eventually, the ship was destroyed and everyone on board was in danger. However, Paul remained calm and assured the Roman guard that they would all be saved if they believed in Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding contentment in one's relationship with Christ, regardless of the circumstances.
A Faith Never Forgotten
By David Roper1.9K39:25ROM 8:29EPH 1:6PHP 1:62PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher talks about the struggle between the influence of sin and the desire to follow God. He uses the metaphor of a young man being tempted by a lizard, representing sin, and a light one, representing God's truth. The young man eventually gives up his sin and experiences transformation. The preacher emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's authority and the need for self-control in order to resist temptation. He also discusses the idea that difficult experiences in life are part of God's plan to shape and mold us into the character of Jesus Christ.
The Coming Final Persecution
By Steven J. Lawson1.9K1:02:57PSA 23:4ZEC 4:6MAT 10:34MAT 24:14MRK 13:9PHP 1:6This sermon delves into the prophetic warnings of persecution and betrayal in the last days as outlined in Mark chapter 13. Jesus foretells the intense animosity believers will face, even from their own families, emphasizing the need for spiritual alertness and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Despite the escalating opposition, the message encourages believers to endure faithfully to the end, trusting in God's sustaining grace and the assurance of salvation.
World-Changer by Micheal Brown
By Micheal L. Brown1.8K05:23PSA 37:4PRO 4:18ISA 41:10MAT 5:16PHP 1:61TH 5:17HEB 12:1JAS 4:81PE 2:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of seizing the opportunity to live a life that counts for God, to let our light shine in darkness, and to seek after Him wholeheartedly. It challenges listeners to prioritize God above all else, to pursue His will, and to trust in His promises for a bright future. The message encourages a life of passion, purity, and perseverance in faith, knowing that God will bring His work to completion in us.
Too Much Riding on Eternity (Part 1 of 2)
By Paul Washer1.6K53:35MAT 7:12CO 13:5PHP 1:6JAS 2:192PE 1:20In this sermon, the speaker highlights the importance of ministers of Jesus Christ being willing to confront and address the spiritual condition of individuals in the congregation. He emphasizes that this may not be well-received in American culture, where people are often thin-skinned and sensitive to criticism. However, the speaker argues that such confrontation is an act of love and necessary for the spiritual growth and well-being of believers. The sermon also touches on the misconception that salvation is a mere label or identification as a Christian, emphasizing that true salvation is a supernatural work of God and should result in a transformed life. The speaker concludes by urging the congregation to worship God wholeheartedly and with all their strength.
The Fight (Reading)
By J.C. Ryle1.5K45:50ECC 12:6ISA 63:2JHN 6:37JHN 10:28ROM 6:14ROM 8:38ROM 16:20PHP 1:6HEB 13:5REV 21:7In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of spiritual warfare and the struggle that Christians face in their journey towards eternal rewards. He emphasizes that true Christianity is not a passive endeavor, but rather a fight and a warfare. The preacher highlights the importance of relying on God's promises and the assurance that He will fulfill them. He encourages believers to trust in God's provision, strength, and faithfulness, reminding them that sin will not have dominion over them and that God will ultimately bring victory over Satan.
(1 Corinthians) Introduction to 1st Corinthians
By Brian Brodersen1.5K59:29MAT 6:331CO 1:2PHP 1:62TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker criticizes preachers who prioritize their own ego over effectively communicating the word of God. He shares an example of a preacher who uses complex words to appear intelligent, but fails to connect with his audience. The speaker then addresses the issue of division within the church, emphasizing the importance of unity and speaking the same message. He warns against compromising with the world and encourages believers to hold fast to God's truth, even if it goes against societal norms. The sermon concludes with the reminder that true wisdom and salvation come through the message of the crucified Christ, rather than worldly knowledge or achievements.
Part 1, Tues (Toronto Spiritual Life Convention 1993)
By Eric J. Alexander1.5K39:43PSA 73:1ROM 8:28PHP 1:6In this sermon, the speaker addresses the insecurity and uncertainty that exists in the world today. He gives an example of a planned evangelistic visitation in Glasgow, where teams were going to reach out to new residents in the city center. The speaker emphasizes that despite the challenges and mysteries of life, God is good and works for the eternal good of his people. He encourages believers to have confidence in God's providence and to trust that he can turn even the actions of evil men into something glorious. The sermon also includes a personal anecdote about reading fairy stories to a child.
He Who Began a Good Work
By Gareth Evans1.4K28:00God's GraceJHN 20:22ACT 16:25ROM 8:28PHP 1:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man who crashes his plane in the Sahara Desert and embarks on a journey for water. Along the way, he encounters a gatekeeper who denies him entry to a swimming pool without ties. The speaker uses this story as a metaphor to illustrate that God always provides us with what we need for our spiritual journey. He emphasizes that God gives us everything necessary to become like Christ and encourages the audience to see Jesus in one another and love and follow one another. The sermon also references the Titanic and the false promises of the world.
Keep Your Heart With All Diligence
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.3K27:47Keeping YourselfPRO 4:23ISA 26:3MAT 24:44ACT 17:30ROM 5:10ROM 7:182CO 6:17PHP 1:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our thoughts and words, as they are recorded and will be proclaimed in eternity. The preacher highlights the need to surrender our hearts to God, who is the keeper of our hearts and can bring perfect peace. The sermon also emphasizes the power of God's word and the importance of guarding our hearts against impure thoughts. The preacher uses the analogy of a garden to illustrate the need for careful attention to the condition of our hearts, as they can be filled with negative influences that lead to death.
Responsibility in the Work
By Stephen Kaung1.3K1:19:53ResponsibilityEPH 4:12PHP 1:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of putting oneself fully into God's work. He uses the parable of the householder hiring workers for his vineyard to illustrate this point. The speaker highlights that God's work requires many workers and that everyone should be engaged in it. He also emphasizes that the attitude and willingness to work diligently are what make a difference in God's work. The sermon concludes with an invitation for the audience to ask any questions they may have about responsibility in God's work.
(Genesis) 35 - the Patriarch Practicing Deceit
By S. Lewis Johnson1.3K49:00DeceitGEN 20:1MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 4:5EPH 2:8PHP 1:6REV 20:15In this sermon, Mr. Newell focuses on the importance of faith and belief in God's justification of the ungodly. He refers to Romans chapter 4, verse 5, which states that salvation is not achieved through works, but through faith in God. The sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to acknowledge and seek deliverance from their besetting sins, which hinder their usefulness in the Christian life. Additionally, Mr. Newell highlights the urgency for those who have not believed in Jesus Christ to recognize their lost state and the necessity of salvation through Christ's sacrifice on the cross. The sermon also touches on the story of Abraham in Genesis chapter 20, highlighting his failure to lay aside his besetting sin and follow God's will.
I Press On
By Bob Jennings1.2K00:00Pressing On1KI 14:112CH 14:11MAT 6:33PHP 1:6PHP 3:12PHP 3:14PHP 4:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the past dedication and fervor of believers in their pursuit of God's kingdom. They emphasize the importance of constantly seeking God through prayer and studying His Word. The speaker also highlights the need to maintain childlike faith and make sacrificial decisions for the sake of the kingdom. They urge believers to continue pressing forward, acknowledging that there is still much to learn and experience in their relationship with God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Being confident - There shall be nothing lacking on God's part to support you; and to make you wise, holy and happy; and bring you at last to his kingdom and glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
confident--This confidence nerves prayers and thanksgivings (Phi 1:3-4). this very thing--the very thing which he prays for (Phi 1:4) is the matter of his believing confidence (Mar 11:24; Jo1 5:14-15). Hence the result is sure. he which hath begun--God (Phi 2:13). a good work--Any work that God begins, He will surely finish (Sa1 3:12). Not even men begin a work at random. Much more the fact of His beginning the work is a pledge of its completion (Isa 26:12). So as to the particular work here meant, the perfecting of their fellowship in the Gospel (Phi 1:5; Psa 37:24; Psa 89:33; Psa 138:8; Joh 10:28-29; Rom 8:29, Rom 8:35-39; Rom 11:1-2 Heb 6:17-19; Jam 1:17; Jde 1:24). As God cast not off Israel for ever, though chastening them for a time, so He will not cast off the spiritual Israel (Deu 33:3; Isa 27:3; Pe1 1:5). perform it until--"perfect it up to" [ALFORD, ELLICOTT, and others]. the day of . . . Christ-- (Phi 1:10). The Lord's coming, designed by God in every age of the Church to be regarded as near, is to be the goal set before believers' minds rather than their own death.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Being confident of this very thing,.... The reason of his thanksgiving, and of his making request with joy continually on the behalf of this church, was the confidence and full persuasion he had of this same thing, of which he could be as much assured as of any thing in the world: that he which hath begun a good work in you, will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: by this good work is not meant the preaching of the Gospel among them, nor a Gospel church state set up in the midst of them: for though the preaching of the Gospel was a good work, and issued well in the conversion of many, in their edification and comfort, and which was still continued; and though a Gospel church state was erected among them, and was now flourishing, yet the apostle could not assure himself of the continuance of either of them, especially until the day of Christ; and both have been removed from thence many hundreds of years ago: nor is their liberal communication to the support of the Gospel intended; for though this was a good work, yet this was not wrought by God, but by themselves, and was not wrought in them, but done by them; nor their good lives and conversations. The Syriac version indeed renders it "good works", but these cannot be designed, for the same reasons as before; for though they are good things, and answer many valuable ends and purposes, yet they are external works done by men, and not internal ones wrought in them by God; wherefore by it is undoubtedly meant the work of grace upon their hearts, sometimes called the work of faith, because that is a principal part of it: this is God's work, and not man's, as may be concluded from the nature of the work itself, which is the transforming of a man by the reviewing of him, a regeneration, a resurrection, and a creation, and therefore requires almighty power; and from the condition man is in by nature, he is dead in sin, and has no power to act spiritually, and much less what is equal to such a work as this; he has no will, desire, and inclination to it, but all the reverse; and if he had, he could no more effect it, than the dry bones in Ezekiel's vision could cause themselves to live. This is the work of God. Sometimes it is ascribed to the Father, who regenerates, calls by his grace, reveals his Son, and draws souls unto him; and sometimes to the Son, who quickens whom he will, whose Spirit is given, whose image is stamped, and out of whose fulness grace is received; but more commonly it is attributed to the Spirit, who is a spirit of regeneration, sanctification, and faith: and this is a "good work", as it must needs be, since it is God's work; he is the efficient cause of it; his good will and pleasure, his grace and mercy are the moving cause of it, and not men's works; and his good word is the means of it. The matter of it is good; it is an illumination of the understanding, a subduing of the will, a taking away of the stony heart, and a giving of an heart of flesh, an infusion of spiritual life, a formation of Christ in the soul, and an implantation of all grace there: it is good in its effects; it makes a man a good man, and fits and qualifies him to perform good works, which without it he cannot do; it makes a man a proper habitation for God, and gives him meetness for the heavenly inheritance. And this is an internal work, a work begun "in" the saints; nothing external is this work; not an outward reformation, which, when right, is the fruit of this good work; nor external humiliation for sin; nor a cessation from the grosser acts of sin; nor a conformity and submission to Gospel ordinances; all which may be where this work is not; but it is something within a man; as appears from the names by which it goes; such as spirit, so called, because it is of a spiritual nature, wrought by the Spirit of God, and has its seat in the spirit of man; it is called the inward man, which is renewed day by day; a seed that remains in him, and a root which is out of sight, and oil in the vessel, the heart, as distinct from the lamp of an outward profession: as also from the several things, which, together, make up the subject of it; it is the understanding which is enlightened; the will which is subdued; the heart and inward parts in which the laws of God are written; the mind and conscience, which are sprinkled with the blood of Christ, and cleansed; and the affections, which are set on divine objects. This is a begun work, and but a begun one. It may be said to be begun as soon as light is let into the soul by the Spirit of God; when it sees its lost state, and need of a Saviour, for as the first thing in the old creation was light, so in the new; when the fear of God is put into the heart, which is the beginning of wisdom; when love appears in the soul to God, to Christ, to his people, word, and ordinances; and when there are the seeing, venturing, and relying acts of faith on Christ, though there is a great deal of darkness, trembling, and unbelief; and when it is got thus far, and even much further, it is but a begun work; it is not yet finished and perfect: this appears from the several parts of this work, which are imperfect, as faith, hope, love, knowledge, &c. from the indwelling of sin, and corruption in the best of saints; from their various continual wants and necessities; from their disclaiming perfection in this life, and their desires after it. But the apostle was confident, and so may every good man be confident, both for himself and others, that God who has, and wherever he has begun the good work of grace, will "perform", finish it, or bring it to an end, as the word here used signifies: and this the saints may assure themselves of, from many considerations; as from the nature of the work itself, which is called living water, because it always continues, a well of it, because of its abundance, and is said to spring up to eternal life; because it is inseparably connected with it, where there is grace, there will be glory; grace is the beginning of glory, and glory the perfection of grace; this work of grace is an incorruptible seed, and which remains in the saints, and can never be lost; it is a principle of life, the root of which is hid in Christ, and that itself is maintained by him, and can never be destroyed by men or devils: and also from the concern God has in it, who is unchangeable in his nature, purposes, promises, gifts, and calling; who is a rock, and his work is perfect sooner or later; who is faithful, and will never forsake the work of his hands, and has power to accomplish it; and who has promised his people, that they shall grow stronger and stronger, that they shall not depart from him, and he will never leave them. Moreover, this may be concluded from the indwelling of the Spirit, as a spirit of sanctification, as the earnest and seal of the inheritance, and that for ever; and from the intercession and fulness of grace in Christ, and the saints' union to him, and standing in him; as well as front the impotency of any to hinder the performance of this work, as sin, Satan, or the world: to which may be added the glory of all the three Persons herein concerned; for if this work is not finished, the glory of God the Father in election, in the covenant of grace, in the contrivance of salvation, in the mission of his Son, the glory of Christ in redemption, and of the Spirit in sanctification, would be entirely lost: wherefore it may be depended on, this work will be performed wherever it is begun, and that "until the day of Jesus Christ"; meaning either the day of death, when Christ takes the souls of believers to himself, and they shall be for ever with him, when this work of grace upon the soul will be finished; for God, who is the guide of his people, will be their God and guide even unto death: or else the last day, the day of judgment, the resurrection day, when Christ shall appear and raise the dead, and free the bodies of the saints from all their bondage, corruption, vileness, and weakness, which will be putting the last and finishing hand to this good work; nor will even the bodies of the saints be quitted by the Spirit of God till this is done.