Philippians 2:12-13
What is written? (ESV)
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.
What does it say?
Therefore brethren, as you have been even now – obey! Not only because I was with you, but even more now that I’m away. Each of you, work out your salvation with careful reference, for it is God who works in you for His glory and honor.
What is its immediate context?
Paul is transitioning into a long closing in an otherwise short letter to the church in Philippi. He has expressed his deep fondness for them (1:6-7) and encourages them throughout to have the “mind of Christ.” His encouragement here is to remain strong in their “partnership in the gospel” (1:5) so they continue to “shine as light in the world” (vs 15).
How Philippians 2:12-13 is applied across Bible answers
Does man have free will?
Paul instructs Christians to do their part in their salvation while reminding them that God works in them. Unless Paul contradicts himself mid-sentence, he means that God works in them to support their own free will (not over-ruling it).
Is God’s grace irresistible?
Paul's earnest desire is for them to remain faithful. He notes that God is still sovereign ("his good pleasure") and is working in them, but that's true for both the righteous and the unrighteous.
In fact, Paul addresses this reality earlier in the letter, regarding those who "preach Christ from envy and rivalry" (1:15-18).
Top 10: Passages that must be reconciled before concluding that the Holy Spirit indwells representatively through the Word?
God is working in us (eg the indwelling of the Spirit), while at the same time, having already obeyed [the word], we are directed to "work out our own salvation".
Paul opens his letter with a prayer asking, "that He [God, the Father] who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." (1:6)
What saves you eternally?
Our salvation is "worked out" through the combination of two things: our diligent obedience (e.g. "fear and trembling") and God that works in us.
