Memory Text:
“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:14, 15, NKJV).
Introduction
Last week, we learned of the great condescension of Christ—one of the greatest acts in the drama of redemption. We were reminded of the importance of humility and how vital it is in securing unity in our lives.
In this lesson, we transition from Christ’s example to how it can be applied and lived out in our daily lives.
Read on!
Lessons
1. Salvation Is Not a One-Time Event. It’s a Continual Way of Life.
Philippians 2:12 NKJV Therefore, my beloved, as you 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;
The word “Therefore” connects the past lesson to our current discussion. Because we have seen that Jesus, though He was fully God, chose to humble Himself and become obedient—even giving His life in full service and sacrifice—so should we.
In a way, Paul was saying that the great motivation to obey and to serve is because Jesus Himself obeyed and served.
Do we think so highly of ourselves, both in thought and practice, that we are unwilling to humble ourselves and make time to be of service to mankind? Are we too comfortable where we are and so settled in our boxes that we don’t go out and serve? If Christ did it, we can and we should.
That is why Paul uses the expression “work out.” Now that you have received Christ as your Savior, imitate Him as your Master.
Disciples back in antiquity followed their chosen rabbi mainly for one thing—to be like him. This is in line with what Jesus said:
Luke 6:40 NKJV A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
So now that we have accepted Him as Lord, strive to be like Him.
Hence, the expression “work out” does not mean to procure or attain salvation through one’s grit. Far from that! It is to exercise that which has been so graciously given for the sake of imitating the example of Christ.
The SDA Bible Commentary agrees:
Salvation is not of works, but it must be worked out. It springs from the mediation of Christ alone, but it is lived out by personal cooperation. —Francis D. Nichol, ed., The Seventh-Day Adventist Bible Commentary(Review and Herald Publishing Association, 1980), 158.
So, as you are going to the gym to hit those physical goals for this year, remember there’s another thing that needs working out: your faith and love for God.
2. You Reflect Christ So That the World Can See Him.
Notice what Paul says:
Philippians 2:15 NKJV that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,
We imitate Christ’s obedience so that we can shine. To what purpose? So that the world can see us? So that we can enjoy the glitter of stardom? No! But that the world can see Jesus, the true Light (see John 1:8, 9), in us.
Jesus Himself agrees:
Matthew 5:16 NKJV Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
We shine so that He can shine brighter. Don’t eclipse God! Let Him shine—shine through you!
Whether you’re preaching in the pulpit or sitting in the pews, let your life shine for Jesus.
Whether you are the CEO or the employee, let your life give a message.
Whether in church or in the workplace, seek to make Him known.
You are His light shining in the night, and remember:
The darker the night, the brighter the light.
Your light doesn’t just shine when you’re standing in the pulpit; it shines even more when it feels like you’re just hanging by a thread, when all hope seems lost, when all things fail and it’s only Christ that you lean on.
Honor Him both in your bright and gloomy days. The darker the night, the brighter the light.
Conclusion
In this study, we have learned that our journey doesn’t end upon our acceptance of Christ. It continues as we see His life and example for us and are inspired to walk in His footsteps. We also learned that this walk serves as our witness to the world. This is the reason why we need to walk worthy of the name of Christians.
By God’s power and grace, you can walk as He walked. May you be covered in the dust of your Rabbi! Go and be like Him!
Discussion Questions:
- What are the biggest struggles you’ve had after accepting Jesus?
- What helps you keep your light burning in the midst of the coldness and darkness of life?