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The “Therefore”: Joy in Serving Jesus (Philippians 2:12-18)
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” (Phil 2:12-13)
Earlier in this chapter, (vv 5-11) we saw Jesus Christ glorified by humbling himself to death on the cross. This sacrifice and glorification of Jesus is the reason (producing the “Therefore” in v.12) that compels us to obey and to live as Jesus lived.
“Work out your own salvation” — How is it that a Christian whose entire salvation is a gracious gift, has to “work it out”? Consider the context. This letter is
addressed to the beloved “saints in Christ Jesus” who have “always obeyed”. In the daily life of Christians, salvation includes the process of being delivered from
the evil that is in our hearts, and becoming like Christ. This sanctification, though it is a free gift, requires continuous reception and daily effort, not in our own
strength, but in God’s strength. We can work out our own salvation only because God is working in us, shaping our will, for his work.
Sometimes we may wonder if anyone cares about the work we do. The work that God has for us is important enough that God has it all planned well in advance: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” [Eph 2:10] . God cares about our work. And, when it may seem like some of our lives are on hold, remember that we are still serving while waiting. So hold fast to the Word. (v16).
This work of “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col 1:27) leads us to become pleasant servants who don’t grumble, are pure in heart, are reputable, and are the light in this world. (v14-15). If we are to be the light of the world, we need to shine with a light that looks different from anything the world is offering — a light that comes from obedience and faith — a supernatural light that comes by letting Jesus, the Light of the World work in us — a joyful light — a light that comes from appreciating the grace of God.
As Jesus rejoiced in the redemption of believers, as Paul rejoiced in tribulation, and as the Philippian church rejoiced in their own sanctification (v18), we can rejoice that God is always in control as He works in us.
And when we consider the grace of the cross, “Therefore” we can do God’s work with joy. “Looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Heb 12:2)
– Andy Nordquist
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