Good Work

Bible scholars suggest that the “good work” of the Philippian church is the money that they sent to Paul for the saints that were suffering in Jerusalem.

It has also been suggested that the “good work” is the work of grace that begun at new birth and will be carried on to completion by the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.

One interpretation is historical and specific and the other is a general statement of promise. I believe they both ring true.

I think the context calls for the first interpretation to have more weight in light of the purpose of the letter. The Philippian church went out of their way to give a generous gift to those who were suffering.

This gave Paul pure joy in their loving obedience to his request. Paul sees this gift bringing much fruit for the saints that are suffering. God will see this act of love through to the time of Christ’s appearing.

On the other hand, it is a general promise that God is faithful in completing His work of grace for all of Christ’s followers.

For those of a Calvinistic persuasion, this promise is absolute for all who have been born again. For those of Arminian persuasion, perseverance is promised as long as one does not renounce his or her faith.

Let me confess that I see strong arguments for both sides of the theological camps. In our denomination, this issue is not a “red line”, but in my opinion, it should stimulate us to honest biblical thinking.

My security in Christ rests not in my own intellectual understanding, but in a relationship with a gracious, merciful God, who is slow to anger and abounds in love.

As Paul states in II Timothy 2:11-13, “If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure we will also reign with him; if we disown him, he will disown us; if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself.”

 Pastor Fred