Philippians 2:12-18
…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you… (vv. 12b-13a) I wanted to say a few words about this “fear and trembling”, but I found an online source that already has it covered:
“The Greek word translated ‘fear’ in this context can equally mean ‘reverence’ or ‘respect.’ Paul uses the same phrase in II Corinthians 7:15, where he refers to Titus as being encouraged by the Corinthians’ reception of him ‘with fear and trembling,’ that is, with great humility and respect for his position as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul himself came to the Corinthian church in ‘weakness and fear, and with much trembling’ (I Corinthians 2:3), mindful of the great and awesome nature of the work in which he was engaged.”
https://www.gotquestions.org/fear-and-trembling.html
We “work out our salvation” simply by being obedient to Jesus’ words, growing into a mature faith. It’s not a “faith vs. works” issue; we’re not working our way to heaven. It’s simply being the person Jesus wants us to be – modeling His life and words and living in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Do all things without grumbling or disputing… (v. 14) Seven words, one complete verse, ‘nuff said…!
Slava Bohu!
Regarding “fear” as mere “respect”: how often is “respect” associated with trembling?