PHILIPPIANS 2:12 AMP
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].
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about the word workout? If you are like me you think about the gym and some hard work, no pain no gain. You probably think of sweat and the pain and discomfort that may come with work out but you may also be thinking about the results of that work out if you stick with it to the end.
Paul tells the Philippians to continue to work out their salvation with fear and trembling but what does that mean?
To understand this verse we must go to the previous one because they are attached. Vs 12 begins with the words so then .. meaning we have to go back to understand the previous so that the so then makes sense.
Philippians 2:5-11 NIV
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Simply put, to work out your salvation with fear and trembling you and I must be imitators of Christ and this week we will break down this verse to fully understand how to be imitators of Christ
Take out
Just as Jesus did what He saw the father do, you and I must imitate Christ and do what He did
Remember
Though we are saved by grace, the change in us empowers us to do certain things. Let’s not neglect them.