Philippians — Week 6

Opening on a day of national mourning after an attempted assassination, this study of Philippians 2:12-18 argues that what the world most needs is God's truth carried by God's people. The charge to work out your salvation with fear and trembling is read in context as a call to the intentional, maximum effort required for unity, humility, and the welfare of the church. The theme of these verses is summarized simply: you can, because God is. Salvation, forgiveness, love, and obedience are possible only because God is faithful, forgiving, loving, and righteous, working in us to will and to act. Believers are called to do everything without grumbling or arguing so they shine like stars in a crooked generation, holding firmly to the word of life and pouring themselves out for the gospel.