A Collective Call

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.
Philippians 2:12-13

Whatever time we are able to take to slowly look at scripture is worth it, because it yields insights that were not evident before. Take today’s passage for instance.

I had always thought of it as a bit of a conundrum related to some interplay between our work and God’s work in salvation, but the context changes how we look at the issue.

Remember this whole discussion started back in 1:27 with Paul exhorting the Philippians to live together in unity that reflects the power of the gospel in their lives. He has not moved from this collective call as he cites Jesus’s actions towards them as not only an example, but also the authority calling them to communal self sacrifice and mutual love. He wants them to leave off their divisive attitudes and pursue godly unity.

The message for us is that the salvation work of humble and triumphant Jesus, in each of us and all of us as Christians, is demonstrated as we obediently follow his call to humble service toward one another. This is the will of God in our church life together to pursue a consistent humble servant love toward one another bringing about God’s desire for love to reign supreme for his people.

Whenever we are tempted to write someone off, hold a grudge, or exert our power, remember the call to live out the salvation we share in Christ in how we treat one another.  

Father,
Thank you for deepening our understanding and teaching us how to live out the grace-filled life you have given to us. Help us to not only love to learn from you, but also to love to put it into practice with one another. What a generous gift that we can work to love and serve one another to build the most beautiful community. Thank you for inviting us into this sweet communion with you and one another. We give thanks to you Jesus, Amen