Philippians 1:6

being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Study Bible

being confident of this
The phrase "being confident" comes from the Greek word "pepoithōs," which conveys a deep sense of trust and assurance. In the context of Philippians, Paul is expressing a profound certainty rooted in faith. This confidence is not based on human ability but on the faithfulness of God. Historically, Paul writes this letter from prison, yet his confidence remains unshaken, demonstrating that true assurance is anchored in divine promises rather than circumstances.

that He who began
The word "began" is derived from the Greek "enarchomai," indicating the initiation of an action. This highlights the divine initiative in the believer's life. God is the one who initiates the work of salvation and transformation. This reflects the biblical narrative of God as the author and initiator of creation and redemption, emphasizing His sovereignty and grace.

a good work in you
The "good work" refers to the transformative process of salvation and sanctification. The Greek word "ergon" for "work" suggests an active, ongoing process. This work is "good" (Greek "agathos"), meaning it is inherently beneficial and aligned with God's perfect will. Theologically, this underscores the idea that God’s work in believers is purposeful and aimed at their ultimate good, aligning with Romans 8:28.

will continue to perfect it
The phrase "will continue to perfect" comes from the Greek "epiteleō," meaning to bring to completion or maturity. This suggests a process of growth and development in the believer's life. The historical context of the early church, facing persecution and challenges, highlights the necessity of perseverance and the assurance that God is actively involved in bringing His work to fruition.

until the day of Christ Jesus
The "day of Christ Jesus" refers to the eschatological hope of Christ's return. This phrase is rich with theological significance, pointing to the culmination of history and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The early Christians lived with an expectation of Christ's imminent return, which provided hope and motivation for holy living. This future-oriented perspective encourages believers to live with an eternal mindset, knowing that God's work in them will be completed at Christ's return.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians. He is expressing his confidence in God's work in the lives of the believers in Philippi.

2. Philippians
The recipients of the letter, a group of Christians in the city of Philippi, a Roman colony in Macedonia.

3. God
The one who initiates and completes the good work in believers.

4. Christ Jesus
The focus of the believers' faith and the one whose return marks the completion of God's work in them.

5. The Day of Christ Jesus
Refers to the future return of Christ, a time of fulfillment and completion of God's promises.

Teaching Points

Confidence in God's Work
Believers can have full assurance that God, who initiated their faith journey, will bring it to completion. This confidence is rooted in God's character and faithfulness.

The Process of Sanctification
The "good work" refers to the ongoing process of sanctification, where believers are being made more like Christ. This is a lifelong journey that requires cooperation with the Holy Spirit.

Eternal Perspective
Understanding that God's work in us is aimed at the "day of Christ Jesus" helps believers maintain an eternal perspective, focusing on spiritual growth and maturity rather than temporary circumstances.

Active Participation
While God is the one who perfects the work, believers are called to actively participate through obedience, prayer, and engagement with Scripture.

Encouragement in Trials
In times of difficulty, remembering that God is at work can provide comfort and strength, knowing that He is using all circumstances for our growth and His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that God began a good work in you change your perspective on your spiritual journey?

2. In what ways can you actively participate in the sanctification process that God is working in your life?

3. How does the promise of God completing His work in you provide comfort during challenging times?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to maintain an eternal perspective, focusing on the "day of Christ Jesus"?

5. How do the additional scriptures (Ephesians 2:10, 2 Corinthians 3:18, etc.) enhance your understanding of Philippians 1:6 and God's work in your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ephesians 2:10
This verse speaks of believers being God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand. It emphasizes God's initiative and purpose in the believer's life.

2 Corinthians 3:18
Discusses the transformation of believers into the image of Christ, highlighting the ongoing work of the Spirit in their lives.

Hebrews 12:2
Refers to Jesus as the author and perfecter of faith, aligning with the idea that God begins and completes the work in believers.

Romans 8:29-30
Talks about God's foreknowledge and predestination, leading to the ultimate glorification of believers, showing the continuity of God's work from beginning to end.

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
Emphasizes God's faithfulness in sanctifying believers completely, ensuring their blamelessness at the coming of Christ.