Devine Scripture

Philippians 2:12

What does Philippians 2:12 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 2:12 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 2:12 means

Because of all that Christ has done and because of Paul’s trust in their consistent obedience, the Philippians are to “work out” their salvation with seriousness—“fear and trembling.” This is not self-salvation but active, diligent living that brings salvation’s fruits to full expression. Whether Paul is present or absent, they are to keep growing, applying the gospel to every part of life. Reverent awe guards against complacency and presumption. The Christian life is neither passive nor proud; it involves responsible effort in response to grace. The community as a whole is called to pursue holiness together, taking seriously both the privilege and the responsibility of belonging to Christ.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

So then, my beloved, even as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

So then, my beloved, even as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

So then, my loved ones, as you have at all times done what I say, not only when I am present, but now much more when I am not with you, give yourselves to working out your salvation with fear in your hearts;

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

So that, my beloved, as ye always obey, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, with fear and trembling your own salvation work out,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Wherefore, my dearly beloved, (as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only but much more now in my absence) with fear and trembling work out your salvation.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

So that, my beloved, even as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much rather in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,

Context

After presenting Christ’s example and exaltation (vv. 5–11), Paul turns to application. Verse 12 begins with a “so then,” linking their obedience to the pattern of Christ. Verse 13 will balance their effort by highlighting God’s prior work within them. Then verses 14–16 will spell out what this obedience looks like—without grumbling, blameless, shining as lights, holding fast the word. The flow maintains the gospel pattern: Christ’s work first, then our responsive working, all undergirded by God’s enabling grace.

v.11and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

v.12This passage

v.13for it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Hebrews 12:28

    Wherefore, receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us have grace, whereby we may offer service well-pleasing to God with reverence and awe:

  • Acts 16:29

    And he called for lights and sprang in, and, trembling for fear, fell down before Paul and Silas,

  • Philippians 1:5

    for your fellowship in furtherance of the gospel from the first day until now;

  • Hebrews 4:1

    Let us fear therefore, lest haply, a promise being left of entering into his rest, any one of you should seem to have come short of it.

  • Isaiah 66:5

    Hear the word of Jehovah, ye that tremble at his word: Your brethren that hate you, that cast you out for my name’s sake, have said, Let Jehovah be glorified, that we may see your joy; but it is they that shall be put to shame.

  • Philippians 1:27

    Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ: that, whether I come and see you or be absent, I may hear of your state, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of the gospel;

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