When I was eight years old, I remember sitting next to my dad in a church pew. I thought about how arrogant some members were. The Preacher asked, “Who knows they are going to Heaven?” Many responded quickly, with a raised hand of intent, proclaiming, “Me!” I turned to my Dad with a look of confusion. He gently smiled and nodded. This gesture let me know he would explain later. After receiving this explanation, I realized I was mistaken about the congregation. It was not arrogance but a necessity that I would soon follow.
At the end of service the following Sunday, I again looked over at my dad for conformation. He accompanied me to the altar, arriving at in front of the preacher as my dad explained my intentions. The preacher then gave me his full attention, asking me to confirm that I understood the significance of my decision. I can now say I certainly did not.
What does it mean, “to be saved?” The OSAS doctrine does not conform to my interpretation of scripture. Over the years, I gradually realized this, mainly from the way New Testament personage lived and even died. I conclude salvation begins when Jesus becomes Lord. God’s work that He began in you is complete, just as life on earth is.
In Philippians 2:12, Paul writes to the Church in hopes they will continue the path and even improve. He first commends their progress and explains how they should proceed. He says, “Work out” or accomplish your salvation. When you confessed Jesus is Lord, God began a work in you. From here on out, it is a joint effort. Philippians 2:13 explains that it is God who is at work in you. He counts on you to grab the other side of the yoke and assist in pulling the load, as obedience is the evidence of salvation.
Paul illustrated our work, advising them to be free from complaints and arguments. Too often, I catch myself complaining. I complain about my job, about the political opposition, or even something my wife wants. This decision offers the Kingdom nothing. Although, Paul explains we will shine like stars if we choose to practice obedience in front of this twisted world. He says we can be blameless without blemish. Paul’s message is to achieve what God has begun in you and continually adds to you.
The work comes by fear and trembling. Afraid as a slave is to a whip? No, but as a son is to his father’s instruction; one who eagerly seeks his father’s approval with trembling anxiety. His concern is falling short of the goal. This “fear” is a respect and reverence towards God’s word as opposed to a fear of a cruel master that does not lead to heart change. This work that God began in you is important, demanding reverence and humility, just as Paul showed in his work. Paul didn’t just preach to a group half-heartedly and leave, hoping they understood. He was dedicated, wanting proof to hand to God. We should have full intent to accomplish what God has begun in us.
We start our lives having a selfish purpose, committing evil deeds, yet God has intended good for us. He begins a work in us as we commit to Him, suggesting that He has a purpose for our lives and, according to 1 Thessalonians 5:24, He is faithful in completing this work. What is this work and how is it accomplished? As per Ephesians 5:27, Jesus plans to present us to His Father as holy and blameless. This is the race Paul refers to. The work is a struggle between our sinful nature and the new creation we are becoming. Each struggle for dominance, but because of Christ’s sacrifice, and that you continue in faith, you are now blameless (Colossians 1:21-23.)