A Forgotten Instruction to the Church

During my daily Study of the Word, I stumbled across two verses that I, at first glance, could not grasp the meaning of it. So I began to search deeper and truly see what Paul was trying to teach.

The verses are Philippians 2:12-13.

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, ¹³for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

As I read this passage, I began to wonder what "working out your salvation" means. The first thought that came to mind was salvation by works. I know what you're thinking "This guy is crazy". It was my first thought, but I knew it was not correct... That is why I further investigated. I believe Paul was telling the believers, that we must obey in front of our pastors, church members, etc. and away from our pastors, church members, etc. I viewed it as, studying God's word, growing in Christ during your alone time. Many Christians, especially in America, grow on Sunday's and Wednesdays and thats it. They believe church is the place where I do God. But it is quite the contrary. He is saying to prove yourselves you are no longer baby Christians. Prove it, by growing outside of church. Have diligence in your salvation. Being your own self-motivator!

Working out our salvation simply means we need to have God's grace work in every area of our lives. We must take what we have received and apply it. For example, it is not what we eat, but what we digest that makes us strong. We have received salvation, not we must let it do its work in us. And it takes diligence to do so. We can read all day, but its what we remember that counts. Its applying it! Thats working out salvation.

Now I also got caught up on "fear and trembling". Does it mean I am supposed to be so scared I am shivering? No, it is a reverent fear. Many commentaries point that it is the reverent fear showing that you know how important this salvation is. You treat it as a sacred gift, not something you can use and not use whenever you want. We ought to be aware at all times that we are living a life that is called to be imitators of Christ. We need to be consistent in the Word, and daily strive to not be those "Christians" who read it once a week. We ought to daily recognize that the Devil has come to tempt us and take us out of our game. Preparing ourselves is key, which comes from trembling and fear. And always be aware of every decision we make, will affect ourselves and others for bad or for good.

Remember, v 13 says it is God who works through us. We are called to be aware, but not to do it on our own. Giving it to God, and letting Him be the power is how we as Christians can be successful in our daily walk.

This is just what God has spoken to me about today, theologians are more depth in this passage than I am, but I felt compelled because we often overlook this passage!!! America needs to hear this scripture being preached throughout the churches of America and throughout the world today!