Sermon 081896

Phi. 2:12-13                                         Work Out Your Salvation                                     8/18/96

ABCC

I.   Introduction and Review                                                                                    533

¨       Paul’s appeal for Christian unity was based on gospel motivations (v. 1-4)

¨       Paul’s appeal for Christian unity was based on the example on Christ (v. 5-11)

II.  Obedience is Essential for Christian Unity & Sanctification (v. 12-13)

Þ     As Christ was obedient (v. 8b), so we too must obey the Lord (v. 12a)

     A. Not dependent upon physical presence of someone in authority - “my presence..”

¨       With a fearfully reverent attitude toward God  “with fear and trembling” = SERIOUS!

     B. Obedience is essential for sanctification  “..your salvation..”

     C. Obedience for sanctification requires human effort & discipline  “..work out..”

¨       Sanctification requires more than Sun. worship, prayer, bible study - Personal obedience

¨       Sanctification means overcoming greed, lust, bitterness, fear…by God’s word & Spirit!

¨       Sanctification requires self-denial & a disciplined life - fight, race, war, etc.

     D. Obedience is from God’s initiative (v. 13) - “desire & ability”

Þ     Think of all the vows & promises that are made & broken - no conviction, power!

Þ     It is impossible to live the Christian life on vows & promises w/o power (Rom. 7:18)

Þ     From where does conviction, desire to confess, forgive, be patient, kind come?

Þ     Before conversion (1Co. 2:14; Rom. 8:6-7; Eph. 2:1-5) - After (Phi. 2:13; Jas. 1:17)

Þ     God not only convicts us of what’s wrong, but also gives us ability to do what is right!