Philippians 2:12-18

1. Introduction

Have you ever read Paul's words, "Be afraid and tremble as the work of your salvation"?

At first glance, it sounds like we have to work our own to get to heaven. Isn't that scary? Because the Bible also says, "We are saved by grace, and by faith, not by works." How to explain it? Today, we are going to study together, this sentence is not to scare us, but to remind us that God has given us salvation and we must live it seriously.

2. Great misunderstanding

Many Christians are very nervous when they read "making salvation", thinking that they must work hard to do their homework and be good people before they will be accepted by God.

• Some people become anxious every day, afraid that they are not good enough.

• Some people simply give up their efforts, thinking that since God has saved me, I don't need to do anything.

Both of these ideas are wrong. The word Paul used was actually "bring out what is already in it." Just like a house has been built, we need to arrange it and furnish it so that it looks like a home. Salvation is freely given by God, and we cannot build it ourselves, but we can "live" it and let others see God's change in us.

3. God does it, or does I do it?

Here's a beautiful mystery:

• Paul said, "You will be saved" → we will strive for it.

• But the next sentence says, "Because God works in you" → is God's work.
  
  

It's not a contradiction, but God's grace working with our response.
It's like muscle movement: the brain sends a signal, and the muscles move. The signal is given by the brain, but the muscles are also really exerting force. The Christian life is like this: God lays down desires in our hearts, and we obey Him to do it.

4. What is fear and trembling?

It is not fear that God will strike us, but fear. Just like standing in front of a great king or president, you will naturally feel serious and cautious. This mentality makes us serious about our faith, not frivolous or casual. This reverence helps us to be more joyful because we know that what God is doing in us is true and great.

5. Don't complain

Paul then reminded not to complain. The Israelites often complained about God in the wilderness, and as a result, they lost their testimony. Today we also often complain about life, work, relationships. When we complain, we are questioning God's arrangements. If Christians can use gratitude instead of complaints, they will be especially conspicuous in the dark world, like stars shining.

6. Hold on to God's Word

How can I not complain? How can we fear God? The answer is to hold on to God's Word.

• hear (Gather to listen to sermons)

• read (Daily Bible Reading)

• think (Meditation, prayer)

• record (Memorize scriptures)

• examine (Study carefully)

God's word is our spiritual food, and without it, it is easy to be weak.

7. Eternal vision

Finally, Paul said that he was willing to give to the church like a memorial offering. The drink after is the pouring of wine on the sacrifice, not the main thing, but it makes the whole sacrifice more complete.

Paul said: If my life can be the help of others' faith, I am willing to pay the price. Because all of this has eternal value.

8. Conclusion

Dear brothers and sisters, salvation is freely given by God, and we do not need or can obtain it by works. But we must live out this salvation with awe and thanksgiving:

• Fear God → Face faith seriously

• Don't complain → Live out gratitude and testimony

• Only by holding on to God's word → can we stand strong

• Have an eternal vision → know that it is worth suffering, even if it is suffering

In this way, we can shine among the world and become witnesses.