You can watch this message being preached on YouTube by >> Subscribing Here <<

Philippians 1:6  Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

Introduction

The verse Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ,” is one of profound encouragement and assurance. As part of Apostle Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi, this verse encapsulates the essence of God’s unwavering commitment to His people. It stands as a testament to the divine promise that the good work begun in believers will be brought to completion.

Context of Philippians 1:6

To fully appreciate Philippians 1:6, it is important to understand the context in which Paul wrote this epistle. The letter to the Philippians was written while Paul was in prison, likely in Rome, around AD 61-62. Despite his imprisonment, Paul’s tone throughout the letter is one of joy and gratitude. He addresses the believers in Philippi, expressing his deep affection and appreciation for their support and partnership in the gospel.

The Assurance of Divine Work

Philippians 1:6 speaks directly to the assurance that God, who initiates a good work in believers, will faithfully see it through to completion. This good work refers to the transformative process of salvation and sanctification, whereby individuals are progressively conformed to the image of Christ. It is a process that begins with the acceptance of the gospel and continues throughout the believer’s life.

Confidence in God’s Faithfulness

Paul’s confidence in the verse stems from his unwavering belief in God’s faithfulness. He assures the Philippians that the work God has started in them is not a fleeting endeavor but a deliberate and purposeful act. This confidence is not based on human effort or merit but on the character and promises of God.

The Beginning of the Good Work

The phrase “he which hath begun a good work in you” emphasizes that it is God who initiates the process of spiritual growth and transformation. This initiation is rooted in God’s grace and love, as He draws individuals to Himself through the gospel. The good work involves the regeneration of the heart, the renewal of the mind, and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

The Ongoing Process

The good work that God begins is an ongoing process that requires cooperation with the Holy Spirit. Believers are called to live out their faith, growing in Christlikeness through prayer, study of the Word, fellowship with other believers, and obedience to God’s commands. This process is often marked by challenges and trials, but it is through these experiences that believers are refined and strengthened.

God has always been a refiner of His people. Malachi 3:3  And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.

The Completion Until the Day of Jesus Christ

The phrase “will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s work in believers. The day of Jesus Christ refers to His second coming, the Second Advent of Christ, or the return of Christ.

This is when Jesus Christ will return to judge the living and the dead and establish His eternal kingdom. Until that day, God’s work in believers is continuous, aiming toward complete sanctification (as Malachi points out “that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness”). This process ultimately brings God’s glorification in His people!

Hope and Encouragement

Philippians 1:6 offers profound hope and encouragement to believers. It reassures them that they are not alone in their spiritual journey and that God’s grace and power are at work within them. This assurance enables believers to persevere in faith, knowing that their efforts are part of God’s grand design.

Living in Light of the Promise

Living in the light of Philippians 1:6 involves embracing the divine promise and allowing it to shape one’s life. It calls for a response of faith, trust, and obedience to the LORD. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast, to pursue holiness instead of just happiness, and to rely on God’s strength in all circumstances, not just their own understanding.

Conclusion

Philippians 1:6 is a verse that resonates with the timeless truth of God’s unwavering commitment to His people. It underscores the divine assurance that the good work begun in believers will be brought to completion, not by human effort but by God’s faithfulness.

As Christians reflect on this verse, they are reminded of the transformative journey they are on and the ultimate hope they have in Christ’s return. This verse continues to inspire and encourage, providing a foundation of confidence and trust in the God who completes what He starts!

If this article has added value to your life for God, consider subscribing by >>Clicking Here << and joining our YouTube family by >> Subscribing Here <<.

Thank you!

Pastor Fulmer