Philippians 2:13 FOR IT IS GOD WHO IS AT WORK IN YOU...

DevotiontoBible · Mar 4, 2018

In James 2:24, James is not using the word "justified" here to mean "accounted as righteous" but is "shown to be righteous." James is discussing the proof/evidence of faith (says-claims to have faith but has no works/I will show you my faith by my works - James 2:14-18), not the initial act of being accounted as righteous with God (Romans 4:2-3). *Works bear out the justification that already came by faith.

The harmony of Romans 4:2-3 and James 2:24 is seen in the differing ways that Paul and James use the term "justified." Paul, when he uses the term, refers to the legal (judicial) act of God by which He accounts the sinner as righteous. James, however is using the term to describe those who would show or prove the genuineness of their faith by the works that they do.

The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon

Strong's Number: 1344 Browse Lexicon
Original Word Word Origin
dikaioo from (1342)
Transliterated Word TDNT Entry
Dikaioo 2:211,168
Phonetic Spelling Parts of Speech
dik-ah-yo'-o Verb

Definition
to render righteous or such he ought to be
to show, exhibit, evince, one to be righteous, such as he is and wishes himself to be considered
to declare, pronounce, one to be just, righteous, or such as he ought to be

In Matthew 12:37, we read - "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." This is because our words (and our works) reveal the condition of our hearts. Words/works will appear to be evidences for, or against a man's being in a state of righteousness.

God is said to have been justified by those who were baptized by John the Baptist (Luke 7:29). This act pronounced or declared God to be righteous. It did not make him righteous. The basis or ground for the pronouncement was the fact that God IS righteous. Notice that the NIV reads, "acknowledged that God's way was right.." The ESV reads, "they declared God just.." This is the "sense" in which God was justified. He was "shown to be righteous".

Matthew 11:19 "The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Behold, a gluttonous man and a drunkard, a friend of tax-gatherers and sinners!' Yet wisdom is justified/vindicated/shown to be right by her deeds."

Man is saved through faith and not by works (Ephesians 2:8,9; Titus 3:5; 2 Timothy 1:9); yet genuine faith is vindicated, substantiated, evidenced by works (James 2:14-26).

*Christ saves us through faith based on the merits of His finished work of redemption "alone" and not based on the merits of our works.*

*It is through faith "in Christ alone" (and not by the merits of our works) that we are justified on account of Christ (Romans 3:24; 5:1; 5:9); yet the faith that justifies is never alone (solitary, unfruitful, barren) if it is genuine (James 2:14-26). *Perfect Harmony*

James most certainly is saying works makes you righteous before God.

You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.
James 2:24 NIV
https://bible.com/bible/111/jas.2.24.NIV

garee · Mar 4, 2018

Yes His grace comes from His work of faith .As new creatures having passed from death to new spirit life we have the authority or power of God in us. But are never to assume it could be of us and not a imputed righteousness in respect to Christ’s work of faith as a three day labor of His love as a work of His faith. As that working in us to both will and perform his good pleasure.It is Christ who does make our hearts soft. In that way he is of one mind and always does whatsoever His soul pleases.

Some would hope in some sort of righteousness of their own. But we are told not to murmur, Christ will not forget the love we show towards him as we humbling confess we will not be found with a righteousness of our own self.. But one faith that worked in Abraham and Rehab to both will and do His good pleasure..

And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, anditwas imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.Ye see then how that by works a man (Son of man)is justified, and not by faith only.Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? Jam 2:23

mailmandan · Mar 4, 2018

DevotiontoBible said:

A person is considered or "shown to be righteous" by what they do (works--James 2:24) but a person is NOT "accounted as righteous/saved" based on their works (Romans 4:2-6).

In James 2:21, notice closely that James does not say that Abraham's work of offering up Isaac resulted in God's accounting Abraham as righteous. The accounting of Abraham's faith as righteousness was made in Genesis 15:6, many years before his work of offering up Isaac recorded in Genesis 22. The work of Abraham did not have some kind of intrinsic merit to account him as righteous, but it showed or manifested the genuineness of his faith. This is the "sense" in which Abraham was justified by works. He was "shown to be righteous."

Romans 4:2 - For if Abraham was justified by works, (in this sense, "accounted as righteous"--no contradiction with James 2:21--"shown to be righteous") he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it (faith, not works) was accounted to him for righteousness." 4 Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. 5 But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness, 6 just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works.

Your argument is with scripture not with me and unfortunately, I can see that everything I explained to you in post #20 just went right over your head.

DevotiontoBible · Mar 4, 2018

mailmandan said:

A person is considered or "shown to be righteous" by what they do (works--James 2:24) but a person is NOT "accounted as righteous/saved" based on their works (Romans 4:2-6).

In James 2:21, notice closely that James does not say that Abraham's work of offering up Isaac resulted in God's accounting Abraham as righteous. The accounting of Abraham's faith as righteousness was made in Genesis 15:6, many years before his work of offering up Isaac recorded in Genesis 22. The work of Abraham did not have some kind of intrinsic merit to account him as righteous, but it showed or manifested the genuineness of his faith. This is the "sense" in which Abraham was justified by works. He was "shown to be righteous."

Romans 4:2 - For if Abraham was justified by works, (in this sense, "accounted as righteous"--no contradiction with James 2:21--"shown to be righteous") he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it (faith, not works) was accounted to him for righteousness." 4 Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. 5 But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness, 6 just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works.

Your argument is with scripture not with me and unfortunately, I can see that everything I explained to you in post #20 just went right over your head.

What Bible translation are you using that renders James 2:24 the way you are?

mailmandan · Mar 4, 2018

DevotiontoBible said:

You don't seem to understand that depending on the CONTEXT the word "justified" can mean "accounted as righteous" or "shown to be righteous" as I thoroughly explained to you in post #20.

You error by giving the word "justified" a broad brushed definition of "accounted as righteous." The NIV says "considered" righteous, not accounted as righteous.

Certain paraphrased translations spell it out.

James 2:24 - You see that a man (believer) is justified by works and not by faith alone [that is, by acts of obedience a born-again believer reveals his faith]. (AMP)

James 2:24 - So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone. (NLT)

James 2:24 - So you see that a person is shown to be righteous through faithful actions and not through faith alone. (CEB)

*Notice how I properly harmonized scripture with scripture in post #23 in order to reach the proper conclusion on doctrine.*

Now show me how you harmonize James 2:21 with Romans 4:2-6.

Depleted · Mar 4, 2018

joaniemarie said:

Yay, yet another -- trust your heart over trusting God, because, yo, people are so much more important than God. After all, we're destined to reign, so watch out, God!

(Another counter against the WoF heresy being preached as Christianity.)

Speak2Me · Mar 4, 2018

mailmandan said:

So according to you, "work out" does mean "work for?" Roman Catholics interpret Philippians 2:12 the same way you do and they also teach NOSAS, along with salvation by works. hmm...

Amen! Again, this is in regards to ongoing sanctification, not justification and what I explained in post #4 still stands.

How do your "work out" your salvation that you have not yet obtained? In Hebrews 12:15 (ESV) we read - See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God.. The NASB says ..comes short of the grace of God. In that regard, you cannot "work out" what you have not yet obtained.

Philippians 2:12 - So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ].

Gee, nothing there about obtaining or maintaining your salvation by works. Nice try though.

Yes, this is all involved and it's in regards to ongoing sanctification.

Godly fear of offending God and a righteous awe and respect for Him (Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 34:9; Isaiah 66:2). Prior to my conversion, while still attending the Roman Catholic church, I basically saw God as a tyrant who couldn't wait to punish me every time I messed up or look for any excuse to cast me into hell. That is an unhealthy fear! I didn't see the words "staying saved" in the text anywhere, but just like Roman Catholics and other works-salvationists, you read that into the text.

Fear and bondage to IN-security is no way to live the Christian life.

As we read on in verse 13 - for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. In Philippians 1:6, we read - being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. Praise God!

From beginning "have been saved through faith" (Ephesians 2:8) to end "receiving the end of your faith--the salvation of your souls" (1 Peter 1:9) salvation is by grace through faith and is NOT BY WORKS.

There are 3 tenses to salvation that often get mixed up by works-salvationists. 1. We have been saved from the PENALTY of sin (justification) 2. We are being saved from the POWER of sin (ongoing sanctification) 3. We will be saved from the PRESENCE of sin (glorification) Romans 8:30 - Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. *ALL of them. If you are not glorified in the future it's because you were NEVER justified and if you are not "working out" your salvation it's because you have not yet obtained salvation.

This is the way he explains it away.

Claim it's sanctification & then post sanctification scriptures.

Nice way to steer away from the truth.

mailmandan · Mar 4, 2018

Speak2Me said:

It’s actually you who is refusing to hear the truth. You also need to learn how to rightly divide the word of truth.

Speak2Me · Mar 4, 2018

mailmandan said:

Here's where the lie/deceit begins.

That wasn't according to me, that was according to Strong's concordance, Thayer's Greek Lexicon, & four Bible versions that all agree & say the same thing.

Ongoing sanctification isn't mentioned anywhere. That is eisegesis.

More evidence:

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
[5.Exhortation and Commendation (Philippians 2:12-30).(12-18) By the word “wherefore” St. Paul connects this exhortation with the great passage above. For the main idea is here of the presence of God in them, working out glory through a condition of humiliation, on condition of their fellow-working with Him; so that they shall appear as the “sons of God” and as “lights in the world.” In all this there is clearly the imperfect but true likeness of the indwelling of Godhead in our Lord’s humanity, exalting it through the two-fold humiliation to the unspeakable glory.

(12) Work out your own salvation.—To “work out” is (as in Ephesians 6:13) to carry out to completion what is begun. This is the function of man, as fellow-worker with God, first in his own soul, and then among his brethren. God is the “beginner and perfecter” of every “good work” (see Philippians 1:6); man’s co-operation is secondary and intermediate.

Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Work out your own salvation - This important command was first addressed to Christians, but there is no reason why the same command should not be regarded as addressed to all - for it is equally applicable to all. The duty of doing this is enjoined here; the reason for making the effort, or the encouragement for the effort, is stated in the next verse. In regard to the command here, it is natural to inquire why it is a duty; and what is necessary to be done in order to comply with it? On the first of these inquiries, it may be observed that it is a duty to make a personal effort to secure salvation, or to work out our salvation:(1) Because God commands it. There is no command more frequently repeated in the Scriptures, than the command to make to ourselves a new heart; to strive to enter in at the strait gate; to break off from sin, and to repent.(2) it is a duty because it is our own personal interest that is at stake. No one else has, or can have, as much interest in our salvation as we have. It is every person's duty to be as happy as possible here, and to be prepared for eternal happiness in the future world. No person has a right either to throw away his life or his soul. He has no more right to do the one than the other; and if it is a person's duty to endeavor to save his life when in danger of drowning, it is no less his duty to endeavor to save his soul when in danger of hell.(3) our earthly friends cannot save us. No effort of theirs can deliver us from eternal death without our own exertion. Great as may be their solicitude for us, and much as they may do, there is a point where their efforts must stop - and that point is always short of our salvation, unless we are roused to seek salvation. They may pray, and weep, and plead, but they cannot save us. There is a work to be done on our own hearts which they cannot do.(4) it is a duty, because the salvation of the soul will not take care of itself without an effort on our part. There is no more reason to suppose this than that health and life will take care of themselves without our own exertion. And yet many live as if they supposed that somehow all would yet be well; that the matter of salvation need not give them any concern, for that things will so arrange themselves that they will be saved. Why should they suppose this anymore in regard to religion than in regard to anything else?(5) it is a duty, because there is no reason to expect the divine interposition without our own effort. No such interposition is promised to any man, and why should he expect it? In the case of all who have been saved, they have made an effort - and why should we expect that God will favor us more than he did them? "God helps them who help themselves;" and what reason has any man to suppose that he will interfere in his case and save him, if he will put forth no effort to "work out his own salvation?" In regard to the other inquiry - What does the command imply; or what is necessary to be done in order to comply with it? We may observe, that it does not mean:(a) that we are to attempt to deserve salvation on the ground of merit. That is out of the question; for what can man do that shall be an equivalent for eternal happiness in heaven? Nor,(b) does it mean that we are to endeavor to make atonement for past sins. That would be equally impossible, and it is, besides, unnecessary. That work has been done by the great Redeemer. But it means:(i) that we are to make an honest effort to be saved in the way which God has appointed;(ii) that we are to break off from our sins by true repentance;(iii) that we are to believe in the Saviour, and honestly to put our trust in him;(iv) that we are to give up all that we have to God;(v) that we are to break away from all evil companions and evil plans of life; and,(vi) that we are to resist all the allurements of the world, and all the temptations which may assail us that would lead us back from God, and are to persevere unto the end. The great difficulty in working out salvation is in forming a purpose to begin at once. When that purpose is formed, salvation is easy.With fear and trembling - That is, with that kind of anxiety which one has who feels that he has an important interest at stake, and that he is in danger of losing it. The reason or the ground for "fear" in this case is in general this: there is danger of losing the soul.(1) so many persons make shipwreck of all hope and perish, that there is danger that we may also.(2) there are so many temptations and allurements in the world, and so many things that lead us to defer attention to religion, that there is danger that we may be lost.(3) there is danger that if the present opportunity passes, another may not occur. Death may soon overtake us. No one has a moment to lose. No one can designate one single moment of his life, and say, "I may safely lose that moment. I may safely spend it in the neglect of my soul."(4) it should be done with the most earnest concern, front the immensity of the interest at stake. If the soul is lost, all is lost. And who is there that can estimate the value of that soul which is thus in danger of being lost forever?

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
work out—carry out to its full perfection. "Salvation" is "worked in" (Php 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 (2Pe 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 (Php 2:13) it is God that worketh in you," &c. In this case adopt a rule different from the former (Php 2:4), but resting on the same principle of "lowliness of mind" (Php 2:3), namely, "look each on his own things," instead of "disputings" with others (Php 2:14).salvation—which is in "Jesus" (Php 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 (1Co 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" (Ro 11:20). "Paul, though joyous, writes seriously" [J. J. Wolf].

Matthew Poole's Commentary

Work out your own salvation: he moves them as saints, Philippians 1:1, in whom God would perfect his work begun, Philippians 2:6, having given them to believe and suffer, Philippians 2:29, that they would seriously and earnestly busy themselves in those things, which on their parts are necessary to salvation, as John 6:27 Hebrews 6:9, and without which it cannot be had, as Philippians 1:10 Matthew 24:13 Colossians 3:10,12, &c.; 1 Timothy 1:18,19 6:19 2 Timothy 2:5 4:7,8 2 Peter 3:17; yea, press on in the way to their own salvation, as he moved, 1 Timothy 4:16, not that they should not be solicitous about others, for that mutual care is implied, as elsewhere required, Hebrews 3:13 10:24; but that every one should strenuously go on towards the mark with a special regard to himself, and the temptations he may meet with, knowing he must bear his own burden, Galatians 6:1,5, and therefore should take heed lest he fall.
With fear and trembling; i.e. with a holy care to do all acceptably: he doth by these two words mean not any servile fear and slavish despondency, arising from doubting, Philippians 4:4, but only a serious, filial fear, implying a deep humility and submissiveness of mind, with a reverential awe of the Divine Majesty, and a solicitude to avoid that evil which is offensive to him and separates from him. We find these words used to the like import, Psalm 2:11 Daniel 5:19 Daniel 6:26 Romans 11:20 with 1 Corinthians 2:3 2 Corinthians 7:5 Ephesians 6:5; connoting that, after the example of Christ, we should be humble, and though we distrust ourselves, yet we are to trust solely to God, (as an infant may be afraid, and yet cling fast to and depend upon, begging help of, the parent, going over a dangerous precipice), for the accomplishment of our salvation.

stonesoffire · Mar 4, 2018

Angela53510 said:

But, what confirming God's will is never - feeling like you want to do it. Now, feeling good about something, could be a sign of God's calling. But sometimes God chooses the opposite tact. He makes you feel uncomfortable where you are, and then calls you to do something else.

You said the above Angela. Just wondering how you came to this conclusion? It's a literal rending somewhere?

joaniemarie · Mar 4, 2018

On the way to work this evening I heard a message on this very topic really liked what the preacher said. He said we don't "feel" our way into the new creation we are in Christ... we "faith" our way. And that is such a good way of putting it.

Christians need to learn how to differentiate between their "feelings" and their "faith" That's our calling in the new creation., the born again man. Feelings from our flesh have the underpinnings of the lust of the flesh. One of those underpinnings being pride. So that we can often see some of our feelings and or religious fervor can be driven by our pride., not our spirit man.

We can do all kinds of good things in our flesh but they count for nothing as far as our walking in the spirit goes because we are still walking in the lusts of the flesh., the way we used to., the way we were programmed before we became born again.

The Holy Spirit will lead us to know the truth about this as we submit to Him and the Word. It's in the Bible how to know what is from the Spirit and what is from the flesh.

The fruit of the Spirit Gal.5:22

[SUP]22 [/SUP]But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,
[SUP]23 [/SUP]Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [[SUP][d][/SUP]that can bring a charge]

And it's so comforting to also take to heart all the rest of those verses too because it goes on to explain some things that are and used to be and can be in our lives.

[SUP]13 [/SUP]For you, brethren, were [indeed] called to freedom; only [do not let your] freedom be an incentive to your flesh and an opportunity or excuse [for [SUP][b][/SUP]selfishness], but through love you should serve one another.
[SUP]
14 [/SUP]For the whole Law [concerning human relationships] is [SUP][c][/SUP]complied with in the one precept, You shall love your neighbor as [you do] yourself.
[SUP]
15 [/SUP]But if you bite and devour one another [in partisan strife], be careful that you [and your whole fellowship] are not consumed by one another.
[SUP]
16 [/SUP]But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God).
[SUP]
17 [/SUP]For the desires of the flesh are opposed to the [Holy] Spirit, and the [desires of the] Spirit are opposed to the flesh (godless human nature); for these are antagonistic to each other [continually withstanding and in conflict with each other], so that you are not free but are prevented from doing what you desire to do.
[SUP]
18 [/SUP]But if you are guided (led) by the [Holy] Spirit, you are not subject to the Law.
[SUP]
19 [/SUP]Now the doings (practices) of the flesh are clear (obvious): they are immorality, impurity, indecency,
[SUP]
20 [/SUP]Idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, anger (ill temper), selfishness, divisions (dissensions), party spirit (factions, sects with peculiar opinions, heresies),
[SUP]
21 [/SUP]Envy, drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you beforehand, just as I did previously, that those who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
[SUP]
22 [/SUP]But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,
[SUP]
23 [/SUP]Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [[SUP][d][/SUP]that can bring a charge].
[SUP]
24 [/SUP]And those who belong to Christ Jesus (the Messiah) have crucified the flesh (the godless human nature) with its passions and appetites and desires.
[SUP]
25 [/SUP]If we live by the [Holy] Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. [If by the Holy Spirit [SUP][e][/SUP]we have our life in God, let us go forward [SUP][f][/SUP]walking in line, our conduct controlled by the Spirit.]

mailmandan · Mar 5, 2018

Speak2Me said:

The lie/deceit begins when one replaces "work out" your salvation with "work for" your salvation. "Obtaining or maintaining salvation" by works isn't mentioned anywhere. That is eisegesis. Roman Catholics make the same error.

W A Criswell emphasizes that Philippians 2:12-13 "must be read together for a proper understanding. “Work out your own salvation” means to “work out,” not “work for.” A “works salvation” is not being taught. The idea is to progress to the finish or completion in spiritual growth and maturity. This process is what the Bible calls “sanctification.” It should be noted that Phil 2:12 makes it clear we are to be active, not passive, in this process. However, though we are active, we are not alone. Phil 2:13 reminds us again that the entire salvation process is the work of a sovereign God and the result of His grace (Ed: Ministered by the indwelling Holy Spirit).. (Criswell, W A. Believer's Study Bible: New King James Version. 1991. Thomas Nelson)

Kenneth Wuest writes in regard to "your own salvation" that...When Paul was with them, his teaching instructed them, his example inspired them, his encouragement urged them on in their growth in grace. Now in his absence they were thrown upon their own initiative. They must learn to paddle their own canoe. Thus Paul sets before them their human responsibility in their growth in grace, for sanctification is in the apostle’s mind. They have their justification. Their glorification will be theirs in eternity. Their growth in Christ-likeness is the salvation concerning which Paul is speaking. Thus, the saints are exhorted to carry their growth in grace to its ultimate goal, Christ-likeness.

John Walvoord - These verses have been subject to considerable misunderstanding in that the emphasis seems to be upon self-effort. What does it mean to work out one’s own salvation? Some have attempted to support the idea that when God saves a soul it is then up to the individual to possess and achieve the ultimate goals of salvation in Christ. They view Christianity as a step-ladder which reaches from earth to heaven which it is our duty to climb. A careful examination of this passage, however, will not justify this immature conclusion. First of all, the salvation which is in view in this passage is not salvation from the guilt of sin. This is accomplished once and for all when a sinner receives Jesus Christ by faith as the One who bore his sins in His own body on the cross. In this sense, salvation is accomplished once and for all. The salvation that is in view in this passage, therefore, is deliverance from the power of sin, and the experience and manifestation of the new life in Christ. Like all other forms of salvation, it is a work of God but involving to a larger degree the element of individual experience and participation. It is therefore described as a human work in the expression: “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” What does this mean? As many have pointed out, it is not possible to work out something which is not already possessed. In other words, having received Christ as our Savior and having become a child of God, one has received many things which relate to his salvation which are true of every Christian, such as the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, eternal life, and the new possibility of serving God acceptably. The exhortation is to the point that this manifestation of salvation (Ed: progressive sanctification, growth in Christ-likeness) in life is one of the supreme goals of Christian experience, the details and realization of which is of such importance that one should approach the task with fear (cf 1 Pe 1:17, 2 Cor 7:1) and trembling. The exhortation to accomplish this is couched in most loving terms by the apostle. He reminds the the Philippians of their past experience of always obeying, a yieldedness to God that was manifested not only when he was there but also in his absence. Now without his presence in their midst they were to give themselves all the more to a diligent working out of their salvation. In a word, it is an exhortation to realize the whole program of God in sanctification, testimony, and growth in grace.

Harry A. Ironside has an interesting introductory note on this next section applying the truth more to the entire body of believers rather than to individual believers writing that...Philippians 2:12 has often perplexed those who thought they saw clearly from Scripture the simplicity of salvation by grace, apart from works. Here, in seeming contrast to that doctrine, the apostle told the saints to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, as though there were a possibility that salvation might be forfeited because of failure to work it out properly. Notice first, however, that the apostle did not speak of working for salvation. He spoke of working it out, which is very different.

You still cannot seem to grasp that there are 3 tenses to salvation. 1. We have been saved from the PENALTY of sin (justification) 2. We are being saved from the POWER of sin (ongoing sanctification) 3. We will be saved from the PRESENCE of sin (glorification)

Speak2Me · Mar 5, 2018

That wasn't according to me, that was according to Strong's concordance, Thayer's Greek Lexicon, & four Bible versions that all agree & say the same thing.

Ongoing sanctification isn't mentioned anywhere. That is eisegesis.

More evidence:

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
[5.Exhortation and Commendation (Philippians 2:12-30).(12-18) By the word “wherefore” St. Paul connects this exhortation with the great passage above. For the main idea is here of the presence of God in them, working out glory through a condition of humiliation, on condition of their fellow-working with Him; so that they shall appear as the “sons of God” and as “lights in the world.” In all this there is clearly the imperfect but true likeness of the indwelling of Godhead in our Lord’s humanity, exalting it through the two-fold humiliation to the unspeakable glory.

(12) Work out your own salvation.—To “work out” is (as in Ephesians 6:13) to carry out to completion what is begun. This is the function of man, as fellow-worker with God, first in his own soul, and then among his brethren. God is the “beginner and perfecter” of every “good work” (see Philippians 1:6); man’s co-operation is secondary and intermediate.

Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Work out your own salvation - This important command was first addressed to Christians, but there is no reason why the same command should not be regarded as addressed to all - for it is equally applicable to all. The duty of doing this is enjoined here; the reason for making the effort, or the encouragement for the effort, is stated in the next verse. In regard to the command here, it is natural to inquire why it is a duty; and what is necessary to be done in order to comply with it? On the first of these inquiries, it may be observed that it is a duty to make a personal effort to secure salvation, or to work out our salvation1) Because God commands it. There is no command more frequently repeated in the Scriptures, than the command to make to ourselves a new heart; to strive to enter in at the strait gate; to break off from sin, and to repent.(2) it is a duty because it is our own personal interest that is at stake. No one else has, or can have, as much interest in our salvation as we have. It is every person's duty to be as happy as possible here, and to be prepared for eternal happiness in the future world. No person has a right either to throw away his life or his soul. He has no more right to do the one than the other; and if it is a person's duty to endeavor to save his life when in danger of drowning, it is no less his duty to endeavor to save his soul when in danger of hell.(3) our earthly friends cannot save us. No effort of theirs can deliver us from eternal death without our own exertion. Great as may be their solicitude for us, and much as they may do, there is a point where their efforts must stop - and that point is always short of our salvation, unless we are roused to seek salvation. They may pray, and weep, and plead, but they cannot save us. There is a work to be done on our own hearts which they cannot do.(4) it is a duty, because the salvation of the soul will not take care of itself without an effort on our part. There is no more reason to suppose this than that health and life will take care of themselves without our own exertion. And yet many live as if they supposed that somehow all would yet be well; that the matter of salvation need not give them any concern, for that things will so arrange themselves that they will be saved. Why should they suppose this anymore in regard to religion than in regard to anything else?(5) it is a duty, because there is no reason to expect the divine interposition without our own effort. No such interposition is promised to any man, and why should he expect it? In the case of all who have been saved, they have made an effort - and why should we expect that God will favor us more than he did them? "God helps them who help themselves;" and what reason has any man to suppose that he will interfere in his case and save him, if he will put forth no effort to "work out his own salvation?" In regard to the other inquiry - What does the command imply; or what is necessary to be done in order to comply with it? We may observe, that it does not mean:(a) that we are to attempt to deserve salvation on the ground of merit. That is out of the question; for what can man do that shall be an equivalent for eternal happiness in heaven? Nor,(b) does it mean that we are to endeavor to make atonement for past sins. That would be equally impossible, and it is, besides, unnecessary. That work has been done by the great Redeemer. But it means:(i) that we are to make an honest effort to be saved in the way which God has appointed;(ii) that we are to break off from our sins by true repentance;(iii) that we are to believe in the Saviour, and honestly to put our trust in him;(iv) that we are to give up all that we have to God;(v) that we are to break away from all evil companions and evil plans of life; and,(vi) that we are to resist all the allurements of the world, and all the temptations which may assail us that would lead us back from God, and are to persevere unto the end. The great difficulty in working out salvation is in forming a purpose to begin at once. When that purpose is formed, salvation is easy.With fear and trembling - That is, with that kind of anxiety which one has who feels that he has an important interest at stake, and that he is in danger of losing it. The reason or the ground for "fear" in this case is in general this: there is danger of losing the soul.(1) so many persons make shipwreck of all hope and perish, that there is danger that we may also.(2) there are so many temptations and allurements in the world, and so many things that lead us to defer attention to religion, that there is danger that we may be lost.(3) there is danger that if the present opportunity passes, another may not occur. Death may soon overtake us. No one has a moment to lose. No one can designate one single moment of his life, and say, "I may safely lose that moment. I may safely spend it in the neglect of my soul."(4) it should be done with the most earnest concern, front the immensity of the interest at stake. If the soul is lost, all is lost. And who is there that can estimate the value of that soul which is thus in danger of being lost forever?

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
work out—carry out to its full perfection. "Salvation" is "worked in" (Php 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 (2Pe 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 (Php 2:13) it is God that worketh in you," &c. In this case adopt a rule different from the former (Php 2:4), but resting on the same principle of "lowliness of mind" (Php 2:3), namely, "look each on his own things," instead of "disputings" with others (Php 2:14).salvation—which is in "Jesus" (Php 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 (1Co 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" (Ro 11:20). "Paul, though joyous, writes seriously" [J. J. Wolf].

Matthew Poole's Commentary

Work out your own salvation: he moves them as saints, Philippians 1:1, in whom God would perfect his work begun, Philippians 2:6, having given them to believe and suffer, Philippians 2:29, that they would seriously and earnestly busy themselves in those things, which on their parts are necessary to salvation, as John 6:27 Hebrews 6:9, and without which it cannot be had, as Philippians 1:10 Matthew 24:13 Colossians 3:10,12, &c.; 1 Timothy 1:18,19 6:19 2 Timothy 2:5 4:7,8 2 Peter 3:17; yea, press on in the way to their own salvation, as he moved, 1 Timothy 4:16, not that they should not be solicitous about others, for that mutual care is implied, as elsewhere required, Hebrews 3:13 10:24; but that every one should strenuously go on towards the mark with a special regard to himself, and the temptations he may meet with, knowing he must bear his own burden, Galatians 6:1,5, and therefore should take heed lest he fall.
With fear and trembling; i.e. with a holy care to do all acceptably: he doth by these two words mean not any servile fear and slavish despondency, arising from doubting, Philippians 4:4, but only a serious, filial fear, implying a deep humility and submissiveness of mind, with a reverential awe of the Divine Majesty, and a solicitude to avoid that evil which is offensive to him and separates from him. We find these words used to the like import, Psalm 2:11 Daniel 5:19 Daniel 6:26 Romans 11:20 with 1 Corinthians 2:3 2 Corinthians 7:5 Ephesians 6:5; connoting that, after the example of Christ, we should be humble, and though we distrust ourselves, yet we are to trust solely to God, (as an infant may be afraid, and yet cling fast to and depend upon, begging help of, the parent, going over a dangerous precipice), for the accomplishment of our salvation.

All these commentarians, besides many more, agree that we must work out what has been placed within by Christ thru the Holy Spirit.

If not, why was all that Christ put whithin us put there in the first place?

Speak2Me · Mar 5, 2018

Ephesians 6:13

New International Version
Therefore(you) put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

New Living Translation
Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.

English Standard Version
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.

Berean Study Bible
Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand.

Berean Literal Bible
Because of this, take up the complete armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all things, to stand.

New American Standard Bible
Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

English Standard Version
1Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

Paul teaches this with the point being made that we have to put it on.

Yes, God has given it to us, but we have to put it on & use it.

Nehemiah6 · Mar 5, 2018

BEWARE! FALSE TEACHER ON BOARD!

joaniemarie said:

Another HALF-TRUTH from Joseph Prince, the prince of false teachers. Yes, the New Birth does produce a new heart (actually a quickened spirit wherein dwells the Holy Spirit), but what Prince (deliberately) forgot to tell his readers is that if you are a Christian your "flesh" -- the old Adamic sin nature -- has not been eradicated. Therefore your "heart" can still mislead you and cause you to sin, and therefore you cannot always trust the promptings of your heart. However, sin SHALL NOT HAVE DOMINION OVER YOU if you walk in the Spirit and refuse to walk after the flesh.

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. (Gal 5:16,17).

Why is it that (1) JP continues to tickle the ears of his readers instead of presenting Bible truth, (b) continues to send forth false teachings rather than Bible doctrine, and (3) JM continues to post from JP and ignore everything that has already been said about this man?

Speak2Me · Mar 5, 2018

Birds of a feather, N6, birds of a feather.

A person who teacher the false doctrine of another is a false teacher in their own right.

Just because they parrot a false teacher doesn't mean they won't receive a false teacher's reward.

7seasrekeyed · Mar 5, 2018

the above might just be the worst error yet in Prince's teaching...it's an outright lie and denial of what the God Prince says he serves has said in His word

Prince is really getting sloppier if that is possible...proof that when you begin in error and accept a voice that is not from God as though it is from God, if you do not admit error and replace it with truth, you accept more and more erroneous things for truth as though they were truth instead of the lies they are

Jeremiah was not speaking to an unsaved man or unsaved anyone. There is not one single version of scripture that illustrates that and not one single commentary or any other source that says that. This is Prince at his hyped up bogus gospel at his best

Jeremiah is speaking to Judah ( find a Bible map) a part of Israel and not a person named Judah.

the heart refers to the human heart in general...yours, mine and everyone who ever lived

which is the reason Jesus died for us

in a way, we are actually reading how wicked a heart can be so as to publish lies as truth and tell people religion keeps them bound but see here, here is the special revelation I have had that no one but me gets the actual truth

a good scratch for itching ears

people are falling through thin ice and the water is so cold, they have lost proper thought processes and accept this and other lies with ease and encourage others to have a drink of the polluted waters

mailmandan · Mar 5, 2018

Speak2Me said:

I'm not seeing your Roman Catholic interpretation of Philippians 2:12 according to Strong's concordance or Thayer's Greek Lexicon and the four Bible versions all say "work out" your salvation and NOT "work for" your salvation.

The words "ongoing sanctification" do not need to be specifically spelled out in Philippians 2:12 in order to figure out that progressive sanctification, growth in Christ-likeness is in view here, just as the commentaries that I quoted pointed out.

This is NOT more evidence that "work out" your salvation actually means "work for" your salvation.

*Notice the word progressive. "Unto perfection" is not unto sinless perfection in this life, but growth in Christ-likeness/maturity. Once we obtain "entire sanctification" or glorification, then we will be saved from the PRESENCE of sin.

I'm not arguing against working out what has been placed within us by Christ through the Holy Spirit. As John MacArthur correctly points out - this refers to the believer's responsibility for active pursuit of obedience in the process of sanctification.

On the justforcatholics website, Joe Mizzi (former Roman Catholic who is now a believer that witnesses to Roman Catholics through his website) correctly points out - The context makes it clear that Paul is here speaking about sanctification and not about justification. He exhorts the believers to be united together, humbly serving one another (2:1-11), and living blameless and innocent lives in the midst of an evil world (2:14,15). He is not telling them how to become right with God, but how to live righteously and thus fulfill God’s purpose for them. - Work out your salvation

Many commentaries point out that "work out your own salvation" (Philippians 2:12) does not suggest, "work for your salvation" and that is my main point and you will NEVER convince me to believe otherwise. Ultimately, pitting commentary against commentary is not going to settle the issue anyway.

mailmandan · Mar 5, 2018

Question: "What does it mean to work out salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12)?"

Answer: In Philippians 2:12-13, Paul writes, “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, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his purpose.”

This text is often misused to instill fear into people, warning them that it means that they can lose salvation. What does it mean to work out our salvation with fear and trembling? Paul can hardly be encouraging believers to live in a continuous condition of nervousness and anxiety. That would contradict his many other exhortations to peace of mind, courage, and confidence in the God who authors our salvation. The Greek word translated "fear" in this context can equally mean "reverence" or "respect." Paul uses the same phrase in (2 Corinthians 7:15) where he refers to Titus as being encouraged by the Corinthians’ reception of him “with fear and trembling,” that is, with great humility and respect for his position as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul himself came to the Corinthian church in “weakness and fear, and with much trembling” (1 Corinthians 2:3), mindful of the great and awesome nature of the work in which he was engaged.

The sense in which we are to work out our salvation in fear and trembling is twofold. First, the Greek verb rendered “work out” means "to continually work to bring something to completion or fruition." We do this by actively pursuing obedience in the process of sanctification, which Paul explains further in the next chapter of Philippians. He describes himself as “straining” and “pressing on” toward the goal of Christlikeness (Philippians 3:13-14). The “trembling” he experiences is the attitude Christians are to have in pursuing this goal—a healthy fear of offending God through disobedience and an awe and respect for His majesty and holiness. "Trembling" can also refer to a shaking due to weakness, but this is a weakness of higher purpose, one which brings us to a state of dependency on God. Obedience and submission to the God we revere and respect is our “reasonable service” (Romans 12:1-2) and brings great joy. Psalm 2:11 sums it up perfectly: “Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.” We work out our salvation by going to the very source of our salvation—the Word of God—wherein we renew our hearts and minds (Romans 12:1-2), coming into His presence with a spirit of reverence and awe.

https://www.gotquestions.org/fear-and-trembling.html

joaniemarie · Mar 6, 2018

For those interested in hearing about the new heart we have in Christ here is an excellent video that speaks to this truth. If you have a different view - you are free in Christ to have it. The truth is an awesome thing and it sets us free and keeps us from bitterness and bickering.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oahYm5ucj6g

Philippians 2:13 FOR IT IS GOD WHO IS AT WORK IN YOU...

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