Message from Scripture: 5/1/2020

Greetings! Today, our message from Scripture comes from Phil. 1:6. “I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” The term Paul uses for sure, in that he is sure, or confident, of what God’s intentions are for us, comes from the Greek term πείθω, which carries the basic idea of being persuaded, to move or effect by one’s words or motives. Paul is sure that the Lord, who guides us through the course of our lives, in good times and bad, will accomplish His goal of salvation in us. What does this Scripture, in its words and intent, offer us that we can be sure of what God is doing in our lives today?

We can be sure that God works for us constantly. Paul assures them that God had begun a good work in them when they obeyed the gospel, and by His very nature, what God begins, He follows through until completion. We know this not only by what God has said in His word, but what He has done for us in Christ. Jesus died for us, and rose from the dead, which assures us He is fulfilling the promises He made to us.

We can also be sure that God will work until the day of Jesus Christ. The word translated until here in Phil. 1:6, speaks of when the process reaches its conclusion. To the Philippians, it’s like Paul is asking them a question; “How long will God be continually involved in His work of salvation on our behalf?” The answer? “Until the return of Christ.” He will continue His work of maturing, completing, finishing, bringing us to the goal of what life in Christ is all about.

Isn’t it comforting to know that, in Christ, God is constantly at work to make our possibility of salvation reality? Have a great day. God bless.

Robert