Thy Strong Word – Philippians 2:12-30: Work out your salvation—God, in Christ, works through you.

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Rev. Jeremy Klaustermeier, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Warrenton, Missouri, joins host Rev. Brady Finnern to study Philippians 2:12-20.

Paul is 800 miles from the Philippians, yet, he speaks to them as a beloved father speaks to his children.  Paul exhorts them to holy living by holding fast to the truth of Christ (be blameless & innocent without grumbling or dispute).  He reminds us also of the importance of fellow workers in the kingdom.  He will be sending both Timothy and Epaphroditus to Philippi soon, not only for their edification, but for his joy of knowing that God’s Word would continue to move forward.  In the same way, may we give thanks for the Word continuing to be proclaimed around the world and rejoice in His grace.  “Lord God, thank you for all workers who proclaim the Word and help us to hold fast to Christ’s promises and be blameless with our actions, not for our glory but for Your good pleasure.  In Christ, Amen”

Thy Strong Word reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations.

Thy Strong Word is hosted by Rev. Brady Finnern, pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church in Sartell, MN, and graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation.

Philippians 2:12-20

Lights in the World

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 17 Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.

Timothy and Epaphroditus

19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. 20 For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.

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