9. What assurance do we have that the work of salvation from sin will be successful? Philippians 2:13.
NOTE: ‘The work of gaining salvation is one of co-partnership, a joint operation. There is to be co-operation between God and the repentant sinner. This is necessary for the formation of right principles in the character. Man is to make earnest efforts to overcome that which hinders him from attaining to perfection. But he is wholly dependent upon God for success. Human effort of itself is not sufficient. Without the aid of divine power, it avails nothing. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God. On the one side there is infinite wisdom, compassion, and power; on the other, weakness, sinfulness, absolute helplessness.’ Acts of the Apostles, page 482.
10. While God is working in us, what part do we have to play? Philippians 2:12.
Compiler’s Note: What God works in us is to find an outlet; we must work out what He has worked in us. Then people will see in our words and actions the reality of what it means to be saved from our sins. Our lives should be a living witness to the power of Jesus Christ dwelling in our hearts.
NOTE: ‘That tempter who does not seek your salvation has often whispered in your ear, “If you are dependent on God for His Holy Spirit, lie still, and let Him lift you up to heaven in His own time.” But God who really does seek your salvation, “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance,” cries aloud, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who worketh in you to will and to do of His good pleasure.” His working in you to will and to do, never can supersede, or supplant, or dispense with your own working toward your own salvation. The reasoning in God’s plea is that you should work the more earnestly and solemnly, because it is God who worketh in you to prompt and to urge you to both willing and doing. And shall not such a plea avail?’ James White: Review & Herald, March 10, 1863.