Philippians 2:12
Verse
Context
Lights in the World
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.12Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.13For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.
Sermons
Major Ian ThomasMajor Ian ThomasMajor Ian Thomas
Jacob Prasch
J. Glyn Owen
Alan RedpathMajor Ian ThomasSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As ye have always obeyed - Continue to act on the same principles and from the same motives; having the same disposition which was in Christ; laboring so as to promote his glory. Work out your own salvation - Go on, walking by the same rule, and minding the same thing, till your salvation be completed: till, filled with love to God and man, ye walk unblamably in all his testimonies, having your fruit unto holiness, and your end everlasting life. With fear and trembling - Considering the difficulty of the work, and the danger of miscarriage. If you do not watch, pray and continually depend on God, your enemies will surprise you, and your light and life will become extinct; and then consider what an awful account you must give to Him whose Spirit ye have grieved, and of whose glory ye have come short.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore--Seeing that we have in Christ such a specimen of glory resulting from "obedience" (Phi 2:8) and humiliation, see that ye also be "obedient," and so "your salvation" shall follow your obedience. as ye have . . . obeyed--"even as ye have been obedient," namely, to God, as Jesus was "obedient" unto God (see on Phi 2:8). not as, &c.--"not as if" it were a matter to be done "in my presence only, but now (as things are) much more (with more earnestness) in my absence (because my help is withdrawn from you)" [ALFORD]. work out--carry out to its full perfection. "Salvation" is "worked in" (Phi 2:13; Eph 1:11) believers by the Spirit, who enables them through faith to be justified once for all; but it needs, as a progressive work, to be "worked out" by obedience, through the help of the same Spirit, unto perfection (Pe2 1:5-8). The sound Christian neither, like the formalist, rests in the means, without looking to the end, and to the Holy Spirit who alone can make the means effectual; nor, like the fanatic, hopes to attain the end without the means. your own--The emphasis is on this. Now that I am not present to further the work of your salvation, "work out your own salvation" yourselves the more carefully. Do not think this work cannot go on because I am absent; "for (Phi 2:13) it is God that worketh in you," &c. In this case adopt a rule different from the former (Phi 2:4), but resting on the same principle of "lowliness of mind" (Phi 2:3), namely, "look each on his own things," instead of "disputings" with others (Phi 2:14). salvation--which is in "Jesus" (Phi 2:10), as His name (meaning God-Saviour) implies. with fear and trembling--the very feeling enjoined on "servants," as to what ought to accompany their "obedience" (Eph 6:5). So here: See that, as "servants" to God, after the example of Christ, ye be so "with the fear and trembling" which becomes servants; not slavish fear, but trembling anxiety not to fall short of the goal (Co1 9:26-27; Heb 4:1, "Let us fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any should come short of it"), resulting from a sense of our human insufficiency, and from the consciousness that all depends on the power of God, "who worketh both to will and to do" (Rom 11:20). "Paul, though joyous, writes seriously" [J. J. WOLF].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, my beloved,.... This is an inference from the instance and example of Christ; that since he, who was God over all, blessed for ever, made himself so low in human nature, in which he is now so highly exalted, having done the work and business he came about with such condescension, humility, and meekness; therefore it becomes those who profess to be his followers, to do all their affairs as men and Christians, with, and among one another, in all lowliness of mind. The apostle calls the saints here, "my beloved", he having a strong affection for them, which he frequently expresses in this epistle; and he chooses to make use of such an endearing appellation, that it might be observed, that what he was about to say to them sprung from pure love to them, and a hearty desire for their welfare, and from no other end, and with no other view; and to encourage them to go on in a course of humble duty, he commends them for their former obedience, as ye have always obeyed; not "me", as the Arabic and Ethiopic versions supply; but either God, acting according to his revealed will, they had knowledge of; or Christ, by receiving him as prophet, priest, and King, by submitting to his righteousness, and the sceptre of his grace; or the Gospel, by embracing the truths of it, professing them, and abiding in them, and by subjecting to the ordinances of it, and doing all things whatsoever Christ has commanded: and this they did "always"; they were always abounding in the works of the Lord, doing his will; they abode by Christ, and continued steadfastly in his doctrines, and kept the ordinances as they were delivered to them, and walked in all the commandments of the Lord blameless, Not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence; which clause may either be referred to the foregoing, which expresses their obedience; and so signifies that that was carefully and cheerfully performed, not only while the apostle was with them, but now when he was absent from them, and much more when absent than present:, which shows, that they were not eye servants, and menpleasers, but what they did they did sincerely and heartily, as to the Lord: or to the following exhortation, that they would attend to it; not only as they had done when he was among them, of which he was witness, but that they would much more do so now he was absent from them, namely, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; which is to be understood not in such a sense as though men could obtain and procure for themselves spiritual and eternal salvation by their own works and doings; for such a sense is contrary to the Scriptures, which deny any part of salvation, as election, justification, and calling, and the whole of it to be of works, but ascribe it to the free grace of God; and is also repugnant to the perfections of God, as his wisdom, grace, and righteousness; for where are the wisdom and love of God, in forming a scheme of salvation, and sending his Son to effect it, and after all it is left to men to work it out for themselves? and where is the justice of God in admitting of an imperfect righteousness in the room of a perfect one, which must be the case, if salvation is obtained by men's works? for these are imperfect, even the best of them; and is another reason against this sense of the passage; and were they perfect, they could not be meritorious of salvation, for the requisites of merits are wanting in them. Moreover, was salvation to be obtained by the works of men, these consequences would follow; the death of Christ would be in vain, boasting would be encouraged in men, they would have whereof to glory, and their obligations to obedience taken from the love of God, and redemption by Christ, would be weakened and destroyed: add to all this, that the Scriptures assure us, that salvation is alone by Christ; and that it is already finished by him, and not to be wrought out now by him, or any other; and that such is the weakness and impotence of men, even of believers, to whom this exhortation is directed, that it is impossible for them ever to affect it; therefore, whatever sense these words have, we may be sure that this can never possibly be the sense of them. The words may be rendered, "work about your salvation"; employ yourselves in things which accompany salvation, and to be performed by all those that expect it, though not to be expected for the performance of them; such as hearing of the word, submission to Gospel ordinances, and a discharge of every branch of moral, spiritual, and evangelical obedience for which the apostle before commends them, and now exhorts them to continue in; to go on in a course of cheerful obedience to the close of their days, believing in Christ, obeying his Gospel, attending constantly to his word and ordinances, and discharging every duty in faith and fear, until at last they should receive the end of their faith, the salvation of their souls: agreeably the Syriac version renders the words, , "do the work", or "business of your lives"; the work you are to do in your generation, which God has prescribed and directed you to, which the grace of God teaches, and the love of Christ constrains to. Do all that "with fear and trembling"; not with a slavish fear of hell and damnation, or lest they should fall away, or finally miscarry of heaven and happiness; since this would be a distrust of the power and faithfulness of God, and so criminal in them; nor is it reasonable to suppose, that the apostle would exhort to such a fear, when he himself was so confidently assured, that the good work begun in them would be performed; and besides, the exhortation would be very oddly formed, if this was the sense, "work out your salvation with fear" of damnation: but this fear and trembling spoken of, is such as is consistent with the highest acts of faith, trust, confidence, and joy, and is opposed to pride and vain glory; see Psa 2:11; and intends modesty and humility, which is what the apostle is pressing for throughout the whole context; and here urges to a cheerful and constant obedience to Christ, with all humility of soul, without dependence on it, or vain glorying in it, but ascribing it wholly to the grace of God, for the following reason.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
I. He exhorts them to diligence and seriousness in the Christian course: Work out your own salvation. It is the salvation of our souls (Pe1 1:9), and our eternal salvation (Heb 5:9), and contains deliverance from all the evils sin had brought upon us and exposed us to, and the possession of all good and whatsoever is necessary to our complete and final happiness. Observe, It concerns us above all things to secure the welfare of our souls: whatever becomes of other things, let us take care of our best interests. It is our own salvation, the salvation of our own souls. It is not for us to judge other people; we have enough to do to look to ourselves; and, though we must promote the common salvation (Jde 1:3) as much as we can, yet we must upon no account neglect our own. We are required to work out our salvation, katergazesthe. The word signifies working thoroughly at a thing, and taking true pains. Observe, We must be diligent in the use of all the means which conduce to our salvation. We must not only work at our salvation, by doing something now and then about it; but we must work out our salvation, by doing all that is to be done, and persevering therein to the end. Salvation is the great thing we should mind, and set our hearts upon; and we cannot attain salvation without the utmost care and diligence. He adds, With fear and trembling, that is, with great care and circumspection: "Trembling for fear lest you miscarry and come short. Be careful to do every thing in religion in the best manner, and fear lest under all your advantages you should so much as seem to come short," Heb 4:1. Fear is a great guard and preservative from evil. II. He urges this from the consideration of their readiness always to obey the gospel: "As you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, Phi 2:12. You have been always willing to comply with every discovery of the will of God; and that in my absence as well as presence. You make it to appear that regard to Christ, and care of your souls, sway more with you than any mode of showing respect whatsoever." They were not merely awed by the apostle's presence, but did it even much more in his absence. "And because it is God who worketh in you, do you work out your salvation. Work, for he worketh." It should encourage us to do our utmost, because our labour shall not be in vain. God is ready to concur with his grace, and assist our faithful endeavours. Observe, Though we must use our utmost endeavours in working out our salvation, yet still we must go forth, and go on, in a dependence upon the grace of God. His grace works in us in a way suitable to our natures, and in concurrence with our endeavours; and the operations of God's grace in us are so far from excusing, that they are intended to quicken and engage our endeavours. "And work out our salvation with fear and trembling, for he worketh in you." All our working depends upon his working in us. "Do not trifle with God by neglects and delays, lest you provoke him to withdraw his help, and all your endeavours prove in vain. Work with fear, for he works of his good pleasure." - To will and to do: he gives the whole ability. It is the grace of God which inclines the will to that which is good: and then enables us to perform it, and to act according to our principles. Thou hast wrought all our works in us, Isa 26:12. Of his good pleasure. As there is no strength in us, so there is no merit in us. As we cannot act without God's grace, so we cannot claim it, nor pretend to deserve it. God's good will to us is the cause of his good work in us; and he is under no engagements to his creatures, but those of his gracious promise.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:12-18 Paul encourages believers to remain firm in their faith and to live faithful, obedient, and pure lives modeled after Christ. 2:12 obeying God (see John 3:36; Rom 1:5): Believers must reckon with God’s judgment like everyone else (cp. 1 Cor 3:10-13), so they must live before him obediently, with deep reverence and fear.
Philippians 2:12
Lights in the World
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.12Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.13For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Faith to Leave the Gas Station
By Major Ian Thomas12K50:13FaithROM 3:202CO 5:19PHP 2:12JAS 1:171PE 1:231PE 1:25In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of how he came to have faith in God. He emphasizes the importance of mixing the truth of God's word with faith in order to experience its transformative power. The speaker explains that teaching alone is not enough, but preaching is necessary to exhort individuals to apply their faith to the truths they have learned. Ultimately, the sermon encourages listeners to obey the truth of God's word and experience the abundant life that comes from a relationship with Him.
The Power of His Resurrection
By Major Ian Thomas8.6K42:35Resurrection1SA 16:1PSA 107:20LUK 1:30JHN 6:37EPH 2:8PHP 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of demonstrating the presence of God in every aspect of our lives. He uses the story of David and Goliath to illustrate the power of faith over physical weapons. The preacher highlights that God is not looking for worldly accomplishments or talents, but rather for individuals who have learned to live by the principle of faith. He also emphasizes the significance of God's word, particularly Jesus Christ, as the ultimate expression of God's message.
Dedicated to God Not Man
By Major Ian Thomas7.3K34:59DedicationEXO 3:1EXO 3:5ACT 7:20ACT 7:221CO 1:27PHP 2:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the essential principles of the Christian life. He begins by discussing Moses and how he was learned in the wisdom of the Egyptians and mighty in words and deeds. The speaker highlights how Moses was miraculously preserved by God and chosen to deliver the Israelites from the Egyptians. He then addresses the audience, reminding them that God is not unconcerned or incompetent, but rather the Lord of the heart and all of history. The speaker encourages the audience to learn from the examples of Hudson Taylor, A.B. Simpson, and George Miller, who were ordinary individuals who qualified in the School of Failure and discovered that apart from God, they were nothing. The sermon concludes with a reference to Moses encountering the burning bush and God reminding him that even something remarkable like a burning bush would eventually burn out, but God is eternal and unchanging.
Once Saved, Always Saved 1
By Jacob Prasch5.3K1:15:43AssuranceMAT 6:33JHN 3:36ROM 11:22PHP 2:121TI 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of active witnessing in the Christian life. He compares not actively witnessing to neglecting other essential aspects of the Christian faith, such as reading the Bible and praying. The speaker uses a metaphor of someone trying to swim across the English Channel but getting overwhelmed by the storm and drowning. In the metaphor, Jesus appears in a helicopter to save the person, but instead of simply rescuing them, Jesus gives them a white jacket and tells them to hold on. The speaker explains that this represents the tension between faith and works, highlighting the need for both trust in Jesus and active obedience in the Christian life. The sermon references the book of Philippians, specifically chapter 2 verse 12, which encourages believers to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the connection between obedience and salvation.
(1 John #10) Ring of Reality
By J. Glyn Owen4.1K40:52ObedienceJER 31:33EZK 36:27MAT 6:33PHP 2:121JN 2:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of obedience to God's commandments as a test of genuine discipleship. He emphasizes that those who truly know God and abide in Christ will obey His commandments. The preacher refers to the parable of the sower to illustrate how the gospel is like a seed that falls on a prepared heart and brings forth fruit. He concludes that there are objective standards and indications of the reality of knowing God, and obedience to His commandments is a key factor in determining genuine discipleship.
Obedience, the Condition of Blessing
By Alan Redpath3.6K55:13ObedienceDEU 11:27ROM 5:19PHP 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's will. He highlights how Jesus' obedience to God's will led to his fullness and power. The preacher also emphasizes that obedience to God leads to further revelation of His will, while disobedience hinders spiritual growth. He uses the verse Romans 5:19 to explain how through one man's disobedience (Adam), many were made sinners, but through the obedience of Jesus, many can be made righteous. The preacher encourages Christians to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God who works in them to will and do His good pleasure.
A Word of Reconciliation, Participation, Emancipation
By Major Ian Thomas2.7K44:37ReconciliationJHN 14:62CO 5:172CO 5:19PHP 2:12HEB 4:21PE 1:231PE 1:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing and embracing the truth. He highlights that while people may argue about untruth, they cannot argue about the truth. The preacher quotes John 8:30, where Jesus declares that those who continue in his word will know the truth and be set free. He uses the analogy of a glove to illustrate how believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit and empowered to live a life that is possible through Christ. The preacher concludes by inviting the audience to receive God's forgiveness and embrace the truth through a simple prayer.
Do People Get You Down?
By Jim Cymbala2.6K43:38DiscouragementMAT 6:331CO 10:122CO 6:14PHP 2:12PHP 2:152TI 4:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of people turning away from their faith and the dangers of being influenced by the world. He uses the example of Demis, a trusted minister who abandoned Paul and the teachings of Christ. The preacher emphasizes the importance of staying focused on Jesus and not being distracted by the actions of others. He encourages the audience to be the true representatives of Christianity through their attitudes and interactions with others. The sermon concludes with a reminder that each individual is responsible for their own salvation and should not be swayed by the actions of others.
A Reverential Fear of God
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:08:101CO 2:32CO 7:1EPH 5:21PHP 2:12HEB 4:11PE 1:171PE 2:11PE 2:171PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:7
This sermon emphasizes the importance of reverent fear of God in our lives, highlighting the need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, to live in obedience and holiness, and to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. It addresses the danger of moving from legalism to a state of no covenant, where secret sins and worldliness can creep in, leading to a decline in godliness. The speaker urges a return to a healthy balance, seeking God earnestly, fasting, praying, and evaluating our lives regularly to ensure we are walking in the true grace of God.
A Prayer for Just Two Things
By Jim Cymbala1.8K17:30PrayerPSA 51:10PSA 119:11PHP 2:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a steadfast and willing spirit in our relationship with God. He acknowledges that we all make mistakes and may struggle with being faithful to God's word. However, he encourages listeners to persevere and keep plodding forward in their faith, even when faced with discouragement or temptation. The speaker also highlights the need to overcome our natural resistance to God's calling and to be willing to step out in obedience to His plans for our lives.
Christ, Our Indwelling Sanctifier
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.8K22:49SanctifierPSA 119:105PSA 139:23JHN 17:17EPH 4:1PHP 2:12HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and the power of God to transform our hearts. He highlights the concept of God's creation and how we, as humans, are meant to reflect the image of the Son of God. The preacher expresses gratitude for the meetings and the presence of Christ in them. He emphasizes the need for conviction and repentance when our hearts are rebellious. The sermon also emphasizes the authority and power of the Word of God to discern our thoughts and intentions. The preacher encourages the listeners to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to make them more like Jesus.
Pure Heart, Pure Church - Part 6
By Leonard Ravenhill1.7K08:39PSA 51:2MAT 18:20PHP 2:121TH 5:17HEB 12:14JAS 4:81PE 1:16
This sermon emphasizes the vital importance of prayer meetings in the life of a church, likening a church without a prayer meeting to a car without a motor. It highlights the discipline and sacrifice required in spiritual growth, drawing parallels to the dedication of Olympic athletes. The message stresses the need for personal holiness, repentance, and a deep relationship with God, urging believers to seek cleansing and renewal of the heart. It concludes with a call to find true joy in the Lord, recognizing that entertainment is a poor substitute for genuine spiritual fulfillment.
Exploring Salvation's Deposits
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K51:20SalvationMAT 28:19ROM 12:22CO 5:17EPH 2:10PHP 2:122TI 3:161PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of working out one's salvation. He uses the analogy of a person being given all the materials and plans to build a house, and emphasizes that God has provided everything we need for our spiritual growth. The speaker then highlights the power of God in raising Jesus from the dead, emphasizing that God is at work in our sanctification. He concludes by urging the audience to examine their own spiritual progress and to continue working out their salvation with fear and trembling.
Dr. Law and Dr. Grace - Part 3
By Lester Roloff1.6K09:06JHN 3:16ROM 6:23PHP 2:12
This sermon uses the illustration of a high-quality watch to emphasize the concept of grace in salvation. Just as a valuable watch is given without cost or obligation, salvation through Jesus Christ is a gift from God that cannot be earned. The speaker highlights the importance of personal responsibility in working out one's salvation while acknowledging that it is ultimately God's grace that enables and empowers believers to live righteously. The sermon emphasizes the transformative power of grace, teaching that true salvation leads to a life of service and obedience to God.
Work Out Your Salvation
By John Murray1.6K27:26SalvationROM 11:6EPH 2:8PHP 2:122TI 1:9TIT 3:5JAS 2:171PE 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the idea that our working is completely dependent on God's working in us. He explains that the manifestation of God's working in us is our own working, and if we are not actively working, it means that God is not working in us. The preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on God and working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, as it is God who works within us to fulfill His good pleasure. He also highlights that it is the fact that God works in us that provides the incentive and encouragement for us to engage in good works. The sermon emphasizes the need for obedience to God's revealed will as the standard for determining what is good.
God's Holy People
By Denny Kenaston1.4K1:20:48Holy PeoplePHP 2:12TIT 2:10TIT 2:141PE 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being ashamed of our faith in God. He encourages believers to embrace their identity as children of God and to live in a way that represents His holy name. The preacher highlights two key factors in experiencing a transformed life: a genuine desire for it and walking in God's grace. He also contrasts the values and behaviors of believers with those of the world, emphasizing the need for a different perspective on materialism and a dedicated prayer life.
Knowing the Fear of the Lord
By Al Whittinghill1.3K56:32Fear Of The LordDEU 4:10PRO 16:6ISA 66:12CO 7:1PHP 2:121PE 1:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the awe and fear that comes when we realize who we are dealing with in God. He highlights a passage from Revelation 14 where an angel is seen preaching the everlasting gospel to all people on earth. The preacher emphasizes that this is a unique occurrence as angels typically do not preach the gospel. The sermon then delves into the importance of fearing God and the significance of remembering the day we stood before Him. The preacher also emphasizes that the motive for fearing God is His forgiveness, as highlighted in Psalm 130:4. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to fear and serve God wholeheartedly, considering the great things He has done for them.
God's Choice
By Jim Cymbala1.2K32:52DecisionsMAT 6:33MAT 10:1MRK 3:14LUK 9:54JHN 1:40ACT 1:16PHP 2:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the mystery of God's sovereignty and human free will. Throughout the Bible, Jesus appeals to people to make a decision to come to him and trust him. While some people choose to have faith in Jesus, many do not. The preacher emphasizes that salvation comes to those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ, and that the church is called the body of Christ, with Christ as the head. The preacher also warns against the culture of celebrity, reminding believers that Jesus chooses nobodies and transforms them into somebody's through his grace and power.
Make It Your Aim to Fear God
By Tim Conway1.1K06:19ROM 14:122CO 5:11PHP 2:12HEB 4:13HEB 10:31
This sermon emphasizes the importance of feeling the overwhelming love of Christ, being compelled to live a holy and blameless life, and experiencing the power of the cross and resurrection in a tangible and real way. It challenges believers to not be casual with the Word of God but to recognize its significance and the accountability they will face before the judgment seat of Christ. The message urges Christians to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the seriousness of walking away from God and His truth.
(Remnant Meeting 2013) Testimonies by Lori, Patrick, Joanne, and Jared
By Brian Long98300:00ObedienceSpiritual WarfareRemnantISA 1:19PHP 2:12Brian Long shares powerful testimonies from Lori, Patrick, Joanne, and Jared, emphasizing the necessity of spending time in God's Word and prayer to combat self and engage in spiritual warfare. He reflects on the importance of being willing and obedient to God's calling, as highlighted in Isaiah 1:19, and the transformative power of working out one's salvation as stated in Philippians 2:12-13. The testimonies reveal a deep yearning for genuine fellowship and unity within the body of Christ, showcasing how personal struggles can lead to a greater reliance on God's grace and community support. The message encourages believers to actively live out their faith and seek a deeper relationship with God, recognizing that true unity comes from Him alone.
Sanctification 1 of 2
By Mack Tomlinson89546:40PHP 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the work of God in our salvation and sanctification. He highlights the immense sacrifice of God giving His Son for sinners and how this should assure us that He will also change, sanctify, and deliver us from besetting sins. The ultimate goal of our salvation is sanctification, which involves being built up into the image of Jesus Christ. The preacher emphasizes that sanctification is a work that can only be accomplished by God Himself, as He empowers our will, renews our mind, and pours out His Spirit upon us.
Chosen Vessel - Calvary Chapel's Method of Teaching
By Chuck Smith88242:05LeadershipPSA 119:105MAT 7:7ROM 8:9EPH 2:6PHP 2:122TI 3:16JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sitting and learning before walking in the Christian faith. He explains that believers are seated together with Christ and have been given the Holy Spirit, which provides them with power and blessings. The speaker encourages a systematic approach to studying the Bible, suggesting that churches should have a congregational plan of Bible reading and that sermons should be based on the portion of the Bible read that week. He warns against the temptation to focus on attractive sermons that deal with popular topics, instead emphasizing the need for a well-balanced spiritual diet.
Press Into Christ While We Can
By Robert B. Thompson6361:15:53MAT 6:33JHN 14:15EPH 5:15PHP 2:12REV 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of being prepared for the future and not being consumed by the distractions of the American way of life. He warns that those who do not make the most of their opportunities and talents will face an angry Christ. The preacher discusses the significance of technology and the United Nations, highlighting the scheming and lack of transparency in the world. He urges listeners to pray and seek God's guidance in navigating these challenging times and to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly pursuits.
Understanding Spiritual Growth
By Charles Leiter58943:57EZK 36:26JHN 15:5PHP 2:12COL 1:6REV 14:15
This sermon delves into the concept of growth in the Kingdom of God, emphasizing the partnership between human responsibility and God's supernatural work within believers. It explores the process of growth as a gradual, mysterious, and miraculous journey orchestrated by God, leading to a certain outcome of harvest time where every true believer will be gathered. The sermon highlights the necessity of patience, trust in God's work, and the assurance of a bountiful harvest in the end.
Since God Is for Us, We Will Always Overcome (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen5891:01:57ISA 30:18MAT 8:16ROM 7:4ROM 8:28PHP 2:12HEB 8:10HEB 10:51JN 4:4
This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the full scope of salvation, beyond just being saved from judgment, to include deliverance from the sinful nature inherited from Adam and ultimately from the presence of sin itself. It highlights the three tenses of salvation - past, present, and future - and the need to continuously work out one's salvation with fear and trembling. The sermon also stresses the role of the Holy Spirit in sanctification, giving believers the desire and strength to do God's will, leading to a transformed life marked by victory over sin and a deep relationship with Jesus.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As ye have always obeyed - Continue to act on the same principles and from the same motives; having the same disposition which was in Christ; laboring so as to promote his glory. Work out your own salvation - Go on, walking by the same rule, and minding the same thing, till your salvation be completed: till, filled with love to God and man, ye walk unblamably in all his testimonies, having your fruit unto holiness, and your end everlasting life. With fear and trembling - Considering the difficulty of the work, and the danger of miscarriage. If you do not watch, pray and continually depend on God, your enemies will surprise you, and your light and life will become extinct; and then consider what an awful account you must give to Him whose Spirit ye have grieved, and of whose glory ye have come short.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore--Seeing that we have in Christ such a specimen of glory resulting from "obedience" (Phi 2:8) and humiliation, see that ye also be "obedient," and so "your salvation" shall follow your obedience. as ye have . . . obeyed--"even as ye have been obedient," namely, to God, as Jesus was "obedient" unto God (see on Phi 2:8). not as, &c.--"not as if" it were a matter to be done "in my presence only, but now (as things are) much more (with more earnestness) in my absence (because my help is withdrawn from you)" [ALFORD]. work out--carry out to its full perfection. "Salvation" is "worked in" (Phi 2:13; Eph 1:11) believers by the Spirit, who enables them through faith to be justified once for all; but it needs, as a progressive work, to be "worked out" by obedience, through the help of the same Spirit, unto perfection (Pe2 1:5-8). The sound Christian neither, like the formalist, rests in the means, without looking to the end, and to the Holy Spirit who alone can make the means effectual; nor, like the fanatic, hopes to attain the end without the means. your own--The emphasis is on this. Now that I am not present to further the work of your salvation, "work out your own salvation" yourselves the more carefully. Do not think this work cannot go on because I am absent; "for (Phi 2:13) it is God that worketh in you," &c. In this case adopt a rule different from the former (Phi 2:4), but resting on the same principle of "lowliness of mind" (Phi 2:3), namely, "look each on his own things," instead of "disputings" with others (Phi 2:14). salvation--which is in "Jesus" (Phi 2:10), as His name (meaning God-Saviour) implies. with fear and trembling--the very feeling enjoined on "servants," as to what ought to accompany their "obedience" (Eph 6:5). So here: See that, as "servants" to God, after the example of Christ, ye be so "with the fear and trembling" which becomes servants; not slavish fear, but trembling anxiety not to fall short of the goal (Co1 9:26-27; Heb 4:1, "Let us fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any should come short of it"), resulting from a sense of our human insufficiency, and from the consciousness that all depends on the power of God, "who worketh both to will and to do" (Rom 11:20). "Paul, though joyous, writes seriously" [J. J. WOLF].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, my beloved,.... This is an inference from the instance and example of Christ; that since he, who was God over all, blessed for ever, made himself so low in human nature, in which he is now so highly exalted, having done the work and business he came about with such condescension, humility, and meekness; therefore it becomes those who profess to be his followers, to do all their affairs as men and Christians, with, and among one another, in all lowliness of mind. The apostle calls the saints here, "my beloved", he having a strong affection for them, which he frequently expresses in this epistle; and he chooses to make use of such an endearing appellation, that it might be observed, that what he was about to say to them sprung from pure love to them, and a hearty desire for their welfare, and from no other end, and with no other view; and to encourage them to go on in a course of humble duty, he commends them for their former obedience, as ye have always obeyed; not "me", as the Arabic and Ethiopic versions supply; but either God, acting according to his revealed will, they had knowledge of; or Christ, by receiving him as prophet, priest, and King, by submitting to his righteousness, and the sceptre of his grace; or the Gospel, by embracing the truths of it, professing them, and abiding in them, and by subjecting to the ordinances of it, and doing all things whatsoever Christ has commanded: and this they did "always"; they were always abounding in the works of the Lord, doing his will; they abode by Christ, and continued steadfastly in his doctrines, and kept the ordinances as they were delivered to them, and walked in all the commandments of the Lord blameless, Not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence; which clause may either be referred to the foregoing, which expresses their obedience; and so signifies that that was carefully and cheerfully performed, not only while the apostle was with them, but now when he was absent from them, and much more when absent than present:, which shows, that they were not eye servants, and menpleasers, but what they did they did sincerely and heartily, as to the Lord: or to the following exhortation, that they would attend to it; not only as they had done when he was among them, of which he was witness, but that they would much more do so now he was absent from them, namely, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; which is to be understood not in such a sense as though men could obtain and procure for themselves spiritual and eternal salvation by their own works and doings; for such a sense is contrary to the Scriptures, which deny any part of salvation, as election, justification, and calling, and the whole of it to be of works, but ascribe it to the free grace of God; and is also repugnant to the perfections of God, as his wisdom, grace, and righteousness; for where are the wisdom and love of God, in forming a scheme of salvation, and sending his Son to effect it, and after all it is left to men to work it out for themselves? and where is the justice of God in admitting of an imperfect righteousness in the room of a perfect one, which must be the case, if salvation is obtained by men's works? for these are imperfect, even the best of them; and is another reason against this sense of the passage; and were they perfect, they could not be meritorious of salvation, for the requisites of merits are wanting in them. Moreover, was salvation to be obtained by the works of men, these consequences would follow; the death of Christ would be in vain, boasting would be encouraged in men, they would have whereof to glory, and their obligations to obedience taken from the love of God, and redemption by Christ, would be weakened and destroyed: add to all this, that the Scriptures assure us, that salvation is alone by Christ; and that it is already finished by him, and not to be wrought out now by him, or any other; and that such is the weakness and impotence of men, even of believers, to whom this exhortation is directed, that it is impossible for them ever to affect it; therefore, whatever sense these words have, we may be sure that this can never possibly be the sense of them. The words may be rendered, "work about your salvation"; employ yourselves in things which accompany salvation, and to be performed by all those that expect it, though not to be expected for the performance of them; such as hearing of the word, submission to Gospel ordinances, and a discharge of every branch of moral, spiritual, and evangelical obedience for which the apostle before commends them, and now exhorts them to continue in; to go on in a course of cheerful obedience to the close of their days, believing in Christ, obeying his Gospel, attending constantly to his word and ordinances, and discharging every duty in faith and fear, until at last they should receive the end of their faith, the salvation of their souls: agreeably the Syriac version renders the words, , "do the work", or "business of your lives"; the work you are to do in your generation, which God has prescribed and directed you to, which the grace of God teaches, and the love of Christ constrains to. Do all that "with fear and trembling"; not with a slavish fear of hell and damnation, or lest they should fall away, or finally miscarry of heaven and happiness; since this would be a distrust of the power and faithfulness of God, and so criminal in them; nor is it reasonable to suppose, that the apostle would exhort to such a fear, when he himself was so confidently assured, that the good work begun in them would be performed; and besides, the exhortation would be very oddly formed, if this was the sense, "work out your salvation with fear" of damnation: but this fear and trembling spoken of, is such as is consistent with the highest acts of faith, trust, confidence, and joy, and is opposed to pride and vain glory; see Psa 2:11; and intends modesty and humility, which is what the apostle is pressing for throughout the whole context; and here urges to a cheerful and constant obedience to Christ, with all humility of soul, without dependence on it, or vain glorying in it, but ascribing it wholly to the grace of God, for the following reason.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
I. He exhorts them to diligence and seriousness in the Christian course: Work out your own salvation. It is the salvation of our souls (Pe1 1:9), and our eternal salvation (Heb 5:9), and contains deliverance from all the evils sin had brought upon us and exposed us to, and the possession of all good and whatsoever is necessary to our complete and final happiness. Observe, It concerns us above all things to secure the welfare of our souls: whatever becomes of other things, let us take care of our best interests. It is our own salvation, the salvation of our own souls. It is not for us to judge other people; we have enough to do to look to ourselves; and, though we must promote the common salvation (Jde 1:3) as much as we can, yet we must upon no account neglect our own. We are required to work out our salvation, katergazesthe. The word signifies working thoroughly at a thing, and taking true pains. Observe, We must be diligent in the use of all the means which conduce to our salvation. We must not only work at our salvation, by doing something now and then about it; but we must work out our salvation, by doing all that is to be done, and persevering therein to the end. Salvation is the great thing we should mind, and set our hearts upon; and we cannot attain salvation without the utmost care and diligence. He adds, With fear and trembling, that is, with great care and circumspection: "Trembling for fear lest you miscarry and come short. Be careful to do every thing in religion in the best manner, and fear lest under all your advantages you should so much as seem to come short," Heb 4:1. Fear is a great guard and preservative from evil. II. He urges this from the consideration of their readiness always to obey the gospel: "As you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, Phi 2:12. You have been always willing to comply with every discovery of the will of God; and that in my absence as well as presence. You make it to appear that regard to Christ, and care of your souls, sway more with you than any mode of showing respect whatsoever." They were not merely awed by the apostle's presence, but did it even much more in his absence. "And because it is God who worketh in you, do you work out your salvation. Work, for he worketh." It should encourage us to do our utmost, because our labour shall not be in vain. God is ready to concur with his grace, and assist our faithful endeavours. Observe, Though we must use our utmost endeavours in working out our salvation, yet still we must go forth, and go on, in a dependence upon the grace of God. His grace works in us in a way suitable to our natures, and in concurrence with our endeavours; and the operations of God's grace in us are so far from excusing, that they are intended to quicken and engage our endeavours. "And work out our salvation with fear and trembling, for he worketh in you." All our working depends upon his working in us. "Do not trifle with God by neglects and delays, lest you provoke him to withdraw his help, and all your endeavours prove in vain. Work with fear, for he works of his good pleasure." - To will and to do: he gives the whole ability. It is the grace of God which inclines the will to that which is good: and then enables us to perform it, and to act according to our principles. Thou hast wrought all our works in us, Isa 26:12. Of his good pleasure. As there is no strength in us, so there is no merit in us. As we cannot act without God's grace, so we cannot claim it, nor pretend to deserve it. God's good will to us is the cause of his good work in us; and he is under no engagements to his creatures, but those of his gracious promise.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:12-18 Paul encourages believers to remain firm in their faith and to live faithful, obedient, and pure lives modeled after Christ. 2:12 obeying God (see John 3:36; Rom 1:5): Believers must reckon with God’s judgment like everyone else (cp. 1 Cor 3:10-13), so they must live before him obediently, with deep reverence and fear.