Working Out Our Salvation

"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, as not only 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.)

How many people read these verses and come away with the idea that there are many ways of salvation. In other words, "you get to heaven the way you want, and I'll get there the way I want." There is the mistaken notion among many that it doesn't matter what one believes as long as they are sincere. After all, the above verse does say to "work out your own salvation," doesn't it?

The Bible is clear on how a person is saved and it is the same for everyone. Faith and repentance are involved (John 8:24; Luke 13:3.) So is baptism (Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3-6.) These things are identified in scripture as relating to salvation.

It is not man's choice. We cannot tell God how we are going to be saved or how we think it should be. God has said to hear His Son (Matthew 17:5) and Jesus said that "all authority" was given to Him. If Jesus has ALL authority then no person, council, or creed can have one bit authority in religious matters. It does not belong to any denomination to decide what their "plan" is. Only Jesus rules in His church and no one will come to the Father but by Him (John 14:6.) The Christian life is a life of obedience starting with baptism. In fact, He is the "author of eternal salvation to all them that obey Him" (Hebrews 5:8-9.)

Well, what does Paul mean by working out "your own" salvation? Notice that the Philippian text says that God "works in us." No one can face the temptations of Satan alone. We need God's help and should praise Him everyday that He helps us overcome the evil one. But what does God work in us?

The next part of verse 13 tells us, "to will and to work." Unless God's will is in us, God cannot work in our life. People are kidding themselves that God works through them or in some way empowers them while they reject His will. God works in us His will and that leads us to eternal salvation. We can overcome all things (Romans 8:37-39) and do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13.) But only if we make God's will our desire can we be saved. Each Christian has the responsibility to study God's word so He can work out His will and pleasure by our life of obedience. No one can do it for us.