It is important to keep in mind the previous section as we look at Philippians 2:12-13.
Good Leaders Seek to Commend (12a)
The word “Therefore” shows a relationship with the previous text; a conclusion. What was before is the strong basis for Christian obedience… the humility and exaltation of Christ!
Also noteworthy is that the terms “obedient” (v. 8) or “obeyed” (v. 12) are both from a compound Greek word literally meaning “to place oneself under.” Thus, Paul gives the Philippians high praise in suggesting that they “have always obeyed,” or placed themselves under the exalted Lord!
Paul surely was not indicating the Philippians never slipped up in any way (see 1 Jn. 1:8-10), but that they had been “stubbornly obedient” to their Lord. Perhaps even in the book of Philippians we receive a small taste of their faithful obedience. They had been partners with Paul in the gospel (1:5), which includes the giving of financial support (4:15). They had shown genuine concern for Paul, his work and his imprisonment (1:7). They made earnest prayer for him (1:19). Obviously, their obedience was manifested in their actions!
Paul, therefore, seizes upon this opportunity to give them due commendation. Doing so shows his heart was set on the work of Christ and helps propel their faithfulness into the future!
Everyone likes to hear they are doing well. Good leaders will find opportunities to show belief in faithful Christians!
Good Disciples Always Seek to Obey (12b)
Paul could have completely ignored their past faithfulness and just commanded the Philippians to be faithful in the future, but instead he laid ground work for continued faithfulness.
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Instead, Paul says, “work out your own salvation.” Paul, who was inspired by the Holy Spirit, believed there were things the Philippians must continue to do in order to realize their salvation. Christians must continue in faithful obedience to the Lord! (See Mt. 7:21; Heb. 5:9.) And why would they not want to?!
While there is no need to assume that Paul only had in mind what he specifically brings up in this letter, it is insightful to notice what exhortation the apostle gives them for the future…
- Their love is to “abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment” (1:9).
- They were to live “worthy of the gospel of Christ,” which included “standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel” (1:27). This denotes not only unity, but striving together in the Lord’s work!
- They were to suffer for the sake (or cause) of Christ if necessary (1:29).
- They were to be of “the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind” (2:2).
- They weren’t to be selfish or conceited, but to humbly count others as more significant than themselves, considering the needs and interests of others (2:3-4).
In being serious about their continued obedience to Christ, God will work in them for His glorious cause (v. 13; see also Phil 4:13)! Perhaps we should note that when we are offering faithful service in God’s kingdom, we are doing His work. We do nothing that merits the salvation of our soul, but through our faithful obedience to God, we will receive what the Lord is preparing for His people (see Jn. 14:1-6). This is why good leaders commend and good followers always seek to obey.
Daren Schroeder
