Working Out Our Salvation with Fear and Trembling: A Call to Obedience

Introduction

In the book of Philippians, the apostle Paul exhorts the believers in Philippi to work out their salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). This command may seem perplexing at first, as we are saved by grace through faith and our salvation is secure in Christ. However, Paul's intention is not to instill fear of losing our salvation, but rather to emphasize the importance of a healthy reverence and awe for God. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this command, the practical implications of working out our salvation, and the impact it can have on our lives and the world around us.

The Why: A Proper Fear of the Lord

Fear can be both good and bad. We have good fears that protect us from danger and guide us in making wise choices. However, there are also unnecessary and bad fears that hinder us from experiencing the fullness of life. In the Bible, we are instructed to fear God, not in a negative sense, but in a way that acknowledges His greatness and power. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Prov. 9:10) and a sign of our humility before Him. It is a proper response to who God is and what He has done for us.

The How: God's Work in Us

Working out our salvation with fear and trembling is not a work that we do on our own. It is a work that God does in us. See Philipppians 2:13, "for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." God is the one who works in us to will and to work for His good pleasure. Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, God writes His law on our hearts (Jer. 31:33) and enables us to live in obedience to Him. Our desire to love, obey, and serve God comes from Him. It is a result of His work in us, transforming us from the inside out.

Practical Implications: Avoiding Grumbling and Disputing

As we work out our salvation with fear and trembling, we are called to do all things without grumbling or disputing. Grumbling refers to whispering complaints and making negative comments about others behind their backs. Disputing, on the other hand, involves outward quarreling and debating in ways that are divisive. These behaviors can be destructive to ourselves and the community of believers. God takes grumbling and disputing seriously, as they can lead to division within the Church.

The Result: Shining as Lights in the World

When we work out our salvation with fear and trembling, we become blameless and innocent children of God, shining as lights in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation (Phil. 2:15). Our obedience and devotion to God draw attention from both believers and non-believers. People are drawn to the light of Christ in us, and it can lead them to a deeper understanding of the gospel. Our lives demonstrate what is truly important to us, and when we live in obedience to God, our actions speak louder than words.

The Impact: Encouragement and Joy

Working out our salvation with fear and trembling not only impacts the world around us but also encourages our leaders and fellow believers. Our obedience brings joy to those who have poured into our lives and invested in our spiritual growth. As we live out our faith, we become a testament to the transformative power of the gospel. Our lives become a source of encouragement and inspiration to others, and we share in the joy of seeing God's work in and through us.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Working out our salvation with fear and trembling is a lifelong journey of obedience and devotion to God. It is a call to live in awe and reverence of who He is and what He has done for us. As we walk in obedience, we shine as lights in a dark world, drawing others to the love and grace of Christ. Our lives have the power to impact the world around us and bring joy to those who have invested in our spiritual growth. Let us continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God who works in us to will and to work for His good pleasure.

Listen to the entire sermon from Philippians 2:12-18 that this article is based on by clicking here.