Philippians 2:12

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ὥστε

G5620

Wherefore

so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)

ἀγαπητοί

G27

beloved

μου

G3450

of me

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

πάντοτε

G3842

always

every when, i.e., at all times

ὑπηκούσατε

G5219

obeyed

to hear under (as a subordinate), i.e., to listen attentively; by implication, to heed or conform to a command or authority

μὴ

G3361

not

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

ὡς

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#10

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#11

παρουσίᾳ

G3952

presence

a being near, i.e., advent (often, return; specially, of christ to punish jerusalem, or finally the wicked); (by implication) physically, aspect

#12

μου

G3450

of me

#13

μόνον

G3440

only

merely

#14

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#15

νῦν

G3568

now

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

#16

πολλῷ

G4183

much

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

#17

μᾶλλον

G3123

(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather

#18

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#19

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#20

ἀπουσίᾳ

G666

absence

a being away

#21

μου

G3450

of me

#22

μετὰ

G3326

with

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

#23

φόβου

G5401

fear

alarm or fright

#24

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#25

τρόμου

G5156

trembling

a "trembling", i.e., quaking with fear

#26

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#27

ἑαυτῶν

G1438

your own

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

#28

σωτηρίαν

G4991

salvation

rescue or safety (physically or morally)

#29

κατεργάζεσθε·

G2716

work out

to work fully, i.e., accomplish; by implication, to finish, fashion

Analysis

Within the broader context of Philippians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Philippians.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on love address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Philippians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Peace