“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 good purpose.” Phil 2:12-13 NIV
This verse may seem to suggest that salvation requires works. Indeed, it is sometimes used by those who believe thus. Later in his same letter to the Philippians, Paul rejects any such teaching. Phil. 3:2-11. Even a casual reading of scripture produces many verses that do not support that idea (Jn 5:24, 6:37, 2 Cor. 5:21, Eph. 2:4-9, etc.). So, what does it mean to work out your salvation?
Paul did not say to “work for” your salvation. Instead, you are to “work out” your salvation, that is, put into practice in your daily living the things that the Holy Spirit is producing in your life as a result of God already having saved you. It is focused on what we are to do with our salvation. God worked in your life to even give you the will to surrender to him and now we are to produce fruit for his purposes.
Another way of saying this might be; if your salvation is real, then you should be serving God with your actions. There are two parables that Jesus gave that support this idea of God expecting a return for his work in your life. In the “gift of talents” parable (Matt. 25:14-30) the owner (God) clearly expects a profit in return for the talents given. And in the “parable of the ten minas” (Luke 19:13-27) God is the investor. He gave the same amount to each one, who then were judged on the gain they produced with His gift.
So, how are you doing? Have you found your place of service to “work out your salvation”? Check out the board in the foyer for opportunities to do just that.
Serving God this way is not drudgery but is an act of worship with gratitude in your heart for what He has done in your life. Being within the will of God in this manner brings fellowship with the Spirit, feelings of fulfillment and joy of heart. For those of you who have already found your spot, you know what I am talking about. May God continue to bless you greatly as you serve Him.
Allen Graber, Elder