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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/philippians/2-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/50_Php_02_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Philippians 2:12 - Shining as Stars" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script> <script src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/biblehub.js' type='text/javascript'></script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/philippians/2-12.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/philippians/2-12.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/philippians/">Philippians</a> > <a href="/philippians/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 12</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/philippians/2-11.htm" title="Philippians 2:11">◄</a> Philippians 2:12 <a href="/philippians/2-13.htm" title="Philippians 2:13">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Study Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Crossref </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comment </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/philippians/2.htm">New International Version</a> Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, <a href="/nlt/philippians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. <a href="/esv/philippians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> 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, <a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/blb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore my beloved, just as always you have obeyed, not only as in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/kjv/philippians/2.htm">King James Bible</a> Wherefore, my beloved, as ye 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. <a href="/nkjv/philippians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> 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; <a href="/nasb_/philippians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> So then, my beloved, just 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; <a href="/nasb/philippians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; <a href="/nasb77/philippians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; <a href="/lsb/philippians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; <a href="/amp/philippians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ]. <a href="/csb/philippians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Therefore, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, so now, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/hcsb/philippians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> So then, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/asv/philippians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> So then, my beloved, even as ye 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; <a href="/cev/philippians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> My dear friends, you always obeyed when I was with you. Now that I am away, you should obey even more. So work with fear and trembling to discover what it really means to be saved. <a href="/erv/philippians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> So then, my beloved, even as ye 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; <a href="/gwt/philippians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> My dear friends, you have always obeyed, not only when I was with you but even more now that I'm absent. In the same way continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/gnt/philippians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is even more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation, <a href="/isv/philippians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> And so, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only when I was with you but even more now that I am absent, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/msb/philippians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/net/philippians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> So then, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, continue working out your salvation with awe and reverence, <a href="/nheb/philippians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> So then, my beloved, even as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with awe and reverence. <a href="/wbt/philippians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Wherefore, my beloved, as ye 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. <a href="/wey/philippians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Therefore, my dearly-loved friends, as I have always found you obedient, labour earnestly with fear and trembling--not merely as though I were present with you, but much more now since I am absent from you--labour earnestly, I say, to make sure of your own salvation. <a href="/web/philippians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> So then, my beloved, even as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/philippians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> So that, my beloved, as you always obey, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, <a href="/blb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore my beloved, just as always you have obeyed, not only as in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/ylt/philippians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> So that, my beloved, as ye always obey, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, with fear and trembling your own salvation work out, <a href="/slt/philippians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Therefore, my beloved, as ye have always listened, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, with fear and tremor effect your own salvation.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/philippians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Wherefore, my dearly beloved, (as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but much more now in my absence,) with fear and trembling work out your salvation. <a href="/cpdv/philippians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And so, my most beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but even more so now in my absence: work toward your salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/nabre/philippians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> So then, my beloved, obedient as you have always been, not only when I am present but all the more now when I am absent, work out your salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/nrsvce/philippians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed me, not only in my presence, but much more now in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/philippians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> From now on, my beloved, just as you have always been obedient, not only in my presence, but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/philippians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Therefore beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not when I am near to you only, but now when I am far from you, all the more, with awe and with trembling, do the service of your life.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/philippians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> So, then, 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; <a href="/godbey/philippians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> So, my beloved brethren, as you have always harkened, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; <a href="/haweis/philippians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always been obedient, not only during my presence with you, but now much more in my absence, with fear and trembling work out your own salvation. <a href="/mace/philippians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obey'd the gospel, not only when I was with you, but much more now while I am absent, continue the work of your own salvation, whatever persecutions you apprehend: <a href="/wey/philippians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Therefore, my dearly-loved friends, as I have always found you obedient, labour earnestly with fear and trembling--not merely as though I were present with you, but much more now since I am absent from you--labour earnestly, I say, to make sure of your own salvation. <a href="/worrell/philippians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> So then, my beloved, as ye always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; <a href="/worsley/philippians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed the gospel, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence; be still working out your own salvation though with fear and trembling: <a href="/parallel/philippians/2-12.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mXomUhcrPbg?start=358" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm">Shining as Stars</a> 11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12<a href="/greek/5620.htm" title="5620: Hōste (Conj) -- So that, therefore, so then, so as to. From hos and te; so too, i.e. Thus therefore.">Therefore,</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">my</a> <a href="/greek/27.htm" title="27: agapētoi (Adj-VMP) -- From agapao; beloved.">beloved,</a> <a href="/greek/2531.htm" title="2531: kathōs (Adv) -- According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that.">just as</a> <a href="/greek/3842.htm" title="3842: pantote (Adv) -- Always, at all times, ever. From pas and hote; every when, i.e. At all times."></a> <a href="/greek/5219.htm" title="5219: hypēkousate (V-AIA-2P) -- From hupo and akouo; to hear under, i.e. To listen attentively; by implication, to heed or conform to a command or authority.">you have always obeyed,</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.">not</a> <a href="/greek/3440.htm" title="3440: monon (Adv) -- Alone, but, only. Neuter of monos as adverb; merely.">only</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner."></a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">my</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3952.htm" title="3952: parousia (N-DFS) -- From the present participle of pareimi; a being near, i.e. Advent; physically, aspect.">presence,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3568.htm" title="3568: nyn (Adv) -- A primary particle of present time; now; also as noun or adjective present or immediate.">now</a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: pollō (Adj-DNS) -- Much, many; often. ">even</a> <a href="/greek/3123.htm" title="3123: mallon (Adv) -- More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather.">more</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">my</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/666.htm" title="666: apousia (N-DFS) -- Absence, deficiency, waste. From the participle of apeimi; a being away.">absence,</a> <a href="/greek/2716.htm" title="2716: katergazesthe (V-PMM/P-2P) -- From kata and ergazomai; to work fully, i.e. Accomplish; by implication, to finish, fashion.">continue to work out</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautōn (RefPro-GM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">your</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4991.htm" title="4991: sōtērian (N-AFS) -- Feminine of a derivative of soter as noun; rescue or safety.">salvation</a> <a href="/greek/3326.htm" title="3326: meta (Prep) -- (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives. ">with</a> <a href="/greek/5401.htm" title="5401: phobou (N-GMS) -- (a) fear, terror, alarm, (b) the object or cause of fear, (c) reverence, respect. From a primary phebomai; alarm or fright.">fear</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/5156.htm" title="5156: tromou (N-GMS) -- A trembling, quaking, fear. From tremo; a trembling, i.e. Quaking with fear.">trembling.</a> 13For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/james/2-17.htm">James 2:17</a> So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead. <a href="/james/2-26.htm">James 2:26</a> As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. <a href="/1_corinthians/15-58.htm">1 Corinthians 15:58</a> Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. <a href="/2_peter/1-10.htm">2 Peter 1:10</a> Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things you will never stumble, <a href="/hebrews/6-11.htm">Hebrews 6:11-12</a> We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. / Then you will not be sluggish, but will imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">2 Corinthians 7:1</a> Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. <a href="/romans/12-11.htm">Romans 12:11</a> Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. <a href="/1_peter/1-17.htm">1 Peter 1:17</a> Since you call on a Father who judges each one’s work impartially, conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners. <a href="/galatians/6-9.htm">Galatians 6:9</a> Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. <a href="/colossians/3-23.htm">Colossians 3:23</a> Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, <a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">1 Timothy 6:12</a> Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession before many witnesses. <a href="/hebrews/4-1.htm">Hebrews 4:1</a> Therefore, while the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it. <a href="/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15</a> Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth. <a href="/matthew/7-21.htm">Matthew 7:21</a> Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven. <a href="/luke/13-24.htm">Luke 13:24</a> “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Why, 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.my beloved.<a href="/philippians/4-1.htm">Philippians 4:1</a> Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.<a href="/1_corinthians/4-14.htm">1 Corinthians 4:14</a> I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you.<a href="/1_peter/2-11.htm">1 Peter 2:11</a> Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;as ye.<a href="/philippians/1-5.htm">Philippians 1:5,27,29</a> For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; … work.<a href="/philippians/3-13.htm">Philippians 3:13,14</a> Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, … <a href="/proverbs/10-16.htm">Proverbs 10:16</a> The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.<a href="/proverbs/13-4.htm">Proverbs 13:4</a> The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.own.<a href="/philippians/2-19.htm">Philippians 2:19</a> But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.<a href="/romans/13-11.htm">Romans 13:11-14</a> And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed… <a href="/1_corinthians/9-20.htm">1 Corinthians 9:20-23</a> And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; … with.<a href="/ezra/10-3.htm">Ezra 10:3</a> Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandment of our God; and let it be done according to the law.<a href="/psalms/2-11.htm">Psalm 2:11</a> Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.<a href="/psalms/119-120.htm">Psalm 119:120</a> My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/16-17.htm">Absence</a> <a href="/philippians/1-27.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/philippians/1-20.htm">Always</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-21.htm">Beloved</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-21.htm">Dearly-Loved</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-2.htm">Earnestly</a> <a href="/philippians/1-28.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/philippians/2-8.htm">Found</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">Friends</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-9.htm">Labour</a> <a href="/philippians/2-4.htm">Merely</a> <a href="/philippians/2-8.htm">Obedient</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-6.htm">Obey</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-2.htm">Obeyed</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-48.htm">Ones</a> <a href="/philippians/1-26.htm">Presence</a> <a href="/philippians/1-26.htm">Present</a> <a href="/philippians/1-28.htm">Salvation</a> <a href="/philippians/1-20.htm">Times</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-5.htm">Trembling</a> <a href="/philippians/2-9.htm">Wherefore</a> <a href="/philippians/1-22.htm">Work</a> <a href="/philippians/1-25.htm">Working</a> <a href="/philippians/2-5.htm">Yourselves</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/luke/19-13.htm">Absence</a> <a href="/colossians/2-5.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Always</a> <a href="/philippians/4-1.htm">Beloved</a> <a href="/philippians/4-1.htm">Dearly-Loved</a> <a href="/colossians/4-12.htm">Earnestly</a> <a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/philippians/3-6.htm">Found</a> <a href="/philippians/4-1.htm">Friends</a> <a href="/philippians/2-25.htm">Labour</a> <a href="/colossians/3-25.htm">Merely</a> <a href="/colossians/3-20.htm">Obedient</a> <a href="/colossians/3-20.htm">Obey</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-8.htm">Obeyed</a> <a href="/philippians/4-1.htm">Ones</a> <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Presence</a> <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Present</a> <a href="/colossians/1-14.htm">Salvation</a> <a href="/philippians/3-18.htm">Times</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-21.htm">Trembling</a> <a href="/philippians/4-1.htm">Wherefore</a> <a href="/philippians/2-13.htm">Work</a> <a href="/philippians/2-13.htm">Working</a> <a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Yourselves</a><div class="vheading2">Philippians 2</div>1. <a href="/philippians/2-1.htm">Paul exhorts them to unity, and to all humbleness of mind, by the example of Christ's humility;</a> 12. <a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">to a careful proceeding in the way of salvation, that they be as lights to a wicked world,</a> 16. <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">and comforts to him their apostle, who is now ready to be offered up to God.</a> 19. <a href="/philippians/2-19.htm">He hopes to send Timothy to them, and Epaphroditus also.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading"><a href="/study/philippians/2.htm">Berean Study Bible</a></div>Therefore, my beloved The word "therefore" connects this verse to the preceding passage, where Paul discusses the humility and exaltation of Christ. "My beloved" reflects Paul's deep affection for the Philippian believers, emphasizing a personal and pastoral relationship. The Greek word for "beloved" is "agapētoi," which denotes a deep, selfless love, akin to the love God has for humanity. This sets the tone for the exhortation that follows, reminding the readers of their identity as cherished members of the Christian community.just as you have always obeyed Paul commends the Philippians for their consistent obedience, which is a hallmark of their faith. The Greek word for "obeyed" is "hypēkousate," which implies attentive listening and submission to authority. This obedience is not merely external compliance but a heartfelt response to the gospel. Historically, the Philippian church was known for its faithfulness, and Paul acknowledges this as a foundation for his further instructions.not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence Paul contrasts the Philippians' behavior when he was with them and now, in his absence. This highlights the maturity of their faith, as they continue to live out their beliefs without direct supervision. The phrase underscores the importance of personal integrity and spiritual growth, independent of external influences. It reflects the early Christian understanding that true faith is demonstrated consistently, regardless of circumstances.continue to work out your salvation The phrase "work out" comes from the Greek "katergazesthe," meaning to bring something to completion or fruition. This does not imply earning salvation through works but rather living out the implications of one's salvation. It is a call to active participation in the sanctification process, where believers cooperate with God's grace to grow in holiness. The historical context of the early church, facing persecution and internal challenges, underscores the need for perseverance and active faith.with fear and trembling This phrase conveys a sense of reverence and awe in the believer's relationship with God. The Greek words "phobos" (fear) and "tromos" (trembling) suggest a deep respect for God's holiness and a recognition of human frailty. It is not a paralyzing fear but a humble acknowledgment of the seriousness of the Christian walk. In the scriptural context, this attitude is consistent with the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, where the "fear of the Lord" is the beginning of wisdom.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/philippians/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>[5.Exhortation and Commendation (<a href="/context/philippians/2-12.htm" title="Why, 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.">Philippians 2:12-30</a>).(1) EXHORTATION TO WORK OUT THEIR SALVATION through the in working of God, and so to be lights in the world, and the glory of the Apostle, even in the hour of martyrdom (<a href="/context/philippians/2-12.htm" title="Why, 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.">Philippians 2:12-18</a>).(2) ST. PAUL'S INTENTION TO SEND TIMOTHY, AND HOPE TO COME HIMSELF SHORTLY (<a href="/context/philippians/2-19.htm" title="But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly to you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.">Philippians 2:19-24</a>).(3) PRESENT MISSION OF EPAPHRODITUS, now recovered from his late sickness, and strong commendation of his zeal (<a href="/context/philippians/2-25.htm" title="Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.">Philippians 2:25-30</a>).] . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/philippians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 12. - Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence. St. Paul passes to exhortation grounded on the Lord's perfect example. "Ye obeyed" (ὑπηκούσατε) answers to the γενόμενος ὑπήκοος of Ver. 8, and τὴν ἑαυτῶν σωτηρίαν corresponds with the Savior's exaltation described in vers. 9-11. He encourages them by acknowledging their past obedience; he urges them to work, not for the sake of approving themselves to their earthly teacher, but to think of their unseen Lord, and to realize his presence all the more in St. Paul's absence. Work out your own salvation. Complete it; God has begun the work; carry it out unto the end. Comp. the same word in <a href="/ephesians/6-13.htm">Ephesians 6:13</a>, "having done all." Christ's work of atonement is finished: work from the cross: carry out the great work of sanctification by the help of the Holy Spirit. Your own: it is each man's own work; no human friend, no pastor, not even an apostle, can work it for him. With fear and trembling (comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-15.htm">2 Corinthians 7:15</a> and <a href="/ephesians/6-5.htm">Ephesians 6:5</a>). "Servi esse debetis exemplo Christi" (Bengel). Have an eager, trembling anxiety to obey God in all things, considering the tremendous sacrifice of Christ, the unspeakable depth and tenderness of his love, the immense importance of a present salvation from sin, the momentous preciousness of a future salvation from death. <a href="/commentaries/philippians/2-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Therefore, Ὥστε (Hōste) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_5620.htm">Strong's 5620: </a> So that, therefore, so then, so as to. From hos and te; so too, i.e. Thus therefore. my μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. beloved, ἀγαπητοί (agapētoi) Adjective - Vocative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_27.htm">Strong's 27: </a> From agapao; beloved. just as καθὼς (kathōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_2531.htm">Strong's 2531: </a> According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that. you have always obeyed, ὑπηκούσατε (hypēkousate) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5219.htm">Strong's 5219: </a> From hupo and akouo; to hear under, i.e. To listen attentively; by implication, to heed or conform to a command or authority. not μὴ (mē) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3361.htm">Strong's 3361: </a> Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether. only μόνον (monon) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3440.htm">Strong's 3440: </a> Alone, but, only. Neuter of monos as adverb; merely. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. my μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. presence, παρουσίᾳ (parousia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3952.htm">Strong's 3952: </a> From the present participle of pareimi; a being near, i.e. Advent; physically, aspect. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. now νῦν (nyn) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3568.htm">Strong's 3568: </a> A primary particle of present time; 'now'; also as noun or adjective present or immediate. even πολλῷ (pollō) Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4183.htm">Strong's 4183: </a> Much, many; often. more μᾶλλον (mallon) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3123.htm">Strong's 3123: </a> More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. my μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. absence, ἀπουσίᾳ (apousia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_666.htm">Strong's 666: </a> Absence, deficiency, waste. From the participle of apeimi; a being away. continue to work out κατεργάζεσθε (katergazesthe) Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2716.htm">Strong's 2716: </a> From kata and ergazomai; to work fully, i.e. Accomplish; by implication, to finish, fashion. your ἑαυτῶν (heautōn) Reflexive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. salvation σωτηρίαν (sōtērian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4991.htm">Strong's 4991: </a> Feminine of a derivative of soter as noun; rescue or safety. with μετὰ (meta) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_3326.htm">Strong's 3326: </a> (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives. fear φόβου (phobou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5401.htm">Strong's 5401: </a> (a) fear, terror, alarm, (b) the object or cause of fear, (c) reverence, respect. From a primary phebomai; alarm or fright. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. trembling. τρόμου (tromou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5156.htm">Strong's 5156: </a> A trembling, quaking, fear. From tremo; a 'trembling', i.e. Quaking with fear. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">NT Letters: Philippians 2:12 So then my beloved even as you (Philipp. Phil. Php.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/philippians/2-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Philippians 2:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Philippians 2:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/philippians/2-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Philippians 2:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Philippians 2:13" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>