Philippians 2:12

“Wherefore, my beloved, etc.] This is an inference from the instance and example of Christ; that since he, who was God over all, blessed for ever, made himself so low in human nature, in which he is now so highly exalted, having done the work and business he came about with such condescension, humility, and meekness; therefore it becomes those who profess to be his followers, to do all their affairs as men and Christians, with, and among one another, in all lowliness of mind. The apostle calls the saints here, “my beloved”, he having a strong affection for them, which he frequently expresses in this epistle; and he chooses to make use of such an endearing appellation, that it might be…”

“Wherefore--Seeing that we have in Christ such a specimen of glory resulting from "obedience" (Phi 2:8) and humiliation, see that ye also be "obedient," and so "your salvation" shall follow your obedience. as ye have . . . obeyed--"even as ye have been obedient," namely, to God, as Jesus was "obedient" unto God (see on Phi 2:8). not as, &c.--"not as if" it were a matter to be done "in my presence only, but now (as things are) much more (with more earnestness) in my absence (because my help is withdrawn from you)" [ALFORD]. work out--carry out to its full perfection. "Salvation" is "worked in" (Phi 2:13; Eph 1:11) believers by the Spirit, who enables them through faith to be justified once for…”

“Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed - The Philippians had from the beginning manifested a remarkable readiness to show respect to the apostle, and to listen to his teaching. This readiness he more than once refers to and commends. He still appeals to them, and urges them to follow his counsels, that they might secure their salvation. Now much more in my absence - Though they had been obedient when he was with them, yet circumstances had occurred in his absence which made their obedience more remarkable, and more worthy of special commendation. Work out your own salvation - This important command was first addressed to Christians, but there is no reason why the same command should…”

“Wherefore - Having proposed Christ's example, he exhorts them to secure the salvation which Christ has purchased. As ye have always - Hitherto. Obeyed - Both God, and me his minister. Now in my absence - When ye have not me to instruct, assist, and direct you. Work out your own salvation - Herein let every man aim at his own things. With fear and trembling - With the utmost care and diligence. Philippians 2:13”

“2:12-18 Paul encourages believers to remain firm in their faith and to live faithful, obedient, and pure lives modeled after Christ. 2:12 obeying God (see John 3:36; Rom 1:5): Believers must reckon with God’s judgment like everyone else (cp. 1 Cor 3:10-13), so they must live before him obediently, with deep reverence and fear.”

“my beloved: Phi 4:1; Co1 4:14; Pe1 2:11 as ye: Phi 1:5, Phi 1:27, Phi 1:29 work: Phi 3:13, Phi 3:14; Pro 10:16, Pro 13:4; Mat 11:12, Mat 11:29; Luk 13:23, Luk 13:24; Joh 6:27-29; Rom 2:7; Co1 9:24-27, Co1 15:58; Gal 6:7-9; Th1 1:3; Heb 4:11, Heb 6:10, Heb 6:11; Heb 12:1; Pe2 1:5-10, Pe2 3:18 own: Phi 2:19; Rom 13:11-14; Co1 9:20-23; Ti2 2:10 with: Ezr 10:3; Psa 2:11, Psa 119:120; Isa 66:2, Isa 66:5; Act 9:6, Act 16:29; Co1 2:3; Co2 7:15; Eph 6:5; Heb 4:1, Heb 12:28, Heb 12:29 Philippians 2:13”