Paul’s wish in his letter to the Phillippian church is that it would continue to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ in unity and love, in a similarity to Christ Himself.
While many among us faithfully believe in Christ and attest to the fact He in deed was sent to die for our sins on the cross, fulfilling prophecy, too few embrace the missionary lifestyle. As a result of this many believers miss out on the joy associated with mission work and more importantly, the heavenly rewards promised by God to those who contribute to spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.
In these verses Paul calls on his audience to work out their own salvation bearing God’s divine light through faith in Jesus Christ and His word.
“12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” (Philippians 2:12-13)
Here Paul acknowledges the Philippians obedience both in his presence, as he spread the gospel throughout the region as a missionary and, while he found himself in chains for christ in Rome.
The apostle invites his readers to continue working on their salvation, a process by which each believer gains favor with God through works.
Make no mistake, Paul uses the Greek words “phobos” and “tromos” meaning exceeding fear and quaking not to be misinterpreted or sugar coated. The wrath of God is to be feared, anyone believing otherwise is a fool.
“14 Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe 16 as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.” (Philippians 2:14-16)
Paul calls on his audience, one living among a crooked generation to refrain from complaining and arguing, this after the apostle had received word of the discontentment among the Phillippian church. Paul assures the church their efforts to resist the urge to rebel will be rewarded.
As believers abide by the word of God they shine like stars, pouring out God’s perfect light onto a world otherwise filled with darkness.
It is Paul’s desire that he would rejoice after the Phillippian church for their works and attitudes pleasing to God. The apostle mentions both periods of his ministry, when he ran energetically as a disciple of Jesus Christ and now labored in chains.
“17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.” (Philippians 2:17-18)
No matter the situation or phase of his ministry, Paul justifies his service as part of his mission knowing he will one day be rewarded according to God’s promise. Paul’s sacrifice was that of his life as he found himself on the eve of his own martyrdom.
We should in deed be glad and rejoice with the apostle Paul as we become familiar with the details of his mission and, that of the Phillippian church, a chosen people among a crooked generation.
Much like our world today, members of the Phillippian church found themselves under a great amount of temptation, provocation and persecution. through the pen and courage of Paul they were inspired to prevail.
It is my most sincere wish that you would use the scripture herein to better yourselves in the eyes of the Lord through service and sacrifice as you advance the gospel of Jesus Christ as a humble servant of God almighty.
With reverence, through faith, armed with the truth we are called to follow in Jesus footsteps and seek perfection until His triumphant return. Let us do so in unity and love. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
