Sunday Devotional: Philippians 2:12-13

¹² So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only as in my presence, but now much more in my absence, with fear and trembling work out your own salvation, ¹³ for it is God who is working in you both to will and to work for the sake of [His] good pleasure.

After exhorting the Philippians to unity and humility (or unity by means of humility), Paul now encourages them to “work out” their own salvation. What exactly does he mean by this, and what does this mean for us?

Although this phase is not at the beginning of the passage, let’s deal with it first since this is Paul’s main exhortation here. The verb translated “work out,” katergazethe (from katergazomai), means “to produce,” “to accomplish”–essentially to bring about some kind of result by doing something. I could have said “produce your own salvation,” or “accomplish your own salvation,” but the implication of these translations would have been difficult to reconcile with Paul’s theology of the cross. Christ has accomplished our salvation for us, and it is his work, not ours, that makes us acceptable to God. I believe what Paul is saying here is that on the basis of the salvation they have been given, they–and we–need to work that out in their lives. In other words, good works are the fruit of salvation, not the root of salvation (I think I got that from R. C. Sproul–it’s not original with me, anyway). The translation “work out” is not only a legitimate translation of the Greek verb, but it more closely gets this idea across. Salvation is ours, but it should have an effect on our lives. We should be applying the grace of this great gift to every aspect of our thoughts, words, and actions.

Paul tells the Philippians to be obedient in this especially in his absence. They were more than willing to submit to his apostolic authority when he was among them, but it is even more crucial they heed his words when he isn’t there to watch over them. This isn’t just a vain exertion of power on Paul’s part. He knows the dangers they face, especially if they are not united in humility, and striving to live out gospel-centered lives.

In verse 13 we see the flip side of the Philippians (and us) working out their salvation: it is actually God who is at work in them–His will and His effort–bringing about these works for His good pleasure. God’s glory and the fulfillment of His will is of primary importance, and He uses us to accomplish these things. Not only do we need God’s power to “work out” our salvation, but it is God’s desire to work through us to accomplish His will.

Our efforts to honor God through our thoughts, words, and actions are simply the outworking of the salvation He has given to us. Furthermore, those thoughts, words, and actions are the means God uses to fulfill His purposes in our lives and in His church. Perhaps this thought encourages you as you strive to love the Lord by obeying Him, especially in a culture that would have you live otherwise. Your efforts are not in vain; in fact, the Lord is enabling you, and working through you for His glory.

Have a great week!