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Philippians 1:3–8
“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:6).
In the Reformed tradition, the doctrine of eternal security is known as the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. Unfortunately, such nomenclature suggests that our eternal security hinges on what we do or do not do. Hearing such talk and reading Scripture’s admonitions to persevere, warnings against apostasy, and examples of those who seemingly fall from faith, Christians sometimes conclude that they will lose their salvation if they do not live up to some ill-defined standard. Such thoughts obviously erode assurance rather than building it up. That is why we must not miss the New Testament’s teaching on the basis of the perseverance of the saints.
The Bible is absolutely clear that salvation is a work of God, with no contribution from us. Among many other verses, Titus 3:5 declares “He saved us” and Romans 8:30 says “Whom He predestined … these He also justified.” However, we do have a part to play in the business of living the Christian life—growing in our sanctification by becoming more righteous, more Christlike, more obedient to God’s law. This is the pursuit in which the Bible encourages us to persevere. But in the final analysis, whether our labor proves fruitful depends not on us but on God.
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul gives one of the Bible’s clearest exhortations to diligent striving toward sanctification: “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (2:12b). He is encouraging Christians to strive; the terms fear and trembling point to a sober and earnest pursuit. But we must not miss what he says in the very next verse: “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” In other words, as we work, God works in us. And God accomplishes all His purposes. Thus, Paul can tell the Philippians that he is “confident” that “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” God finishes what He starts in His redemptive plan. He preserves those He redeems. Herein lies our assurance and security.
Yes, we have a role to play in the struggle of the Christian life. But ours is not the only role. We must work as God works in us. And He will get the job done. Thus, the perseverance of the saints is truly the preservation of the saints.
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
Do not let the Bible’s teaching on God’s preservation of His people cause you to shirk your responsibility. Do, however, let it encourage you in your struggle. Rejoice to know that even though you may have setbacks in your Christian life, God is at work in you and will not fail. Praise and thank Him today for His gift of preservation.
for further study
- Exodus 14:14
- 1 Timothy 6:12