What does Philippians 2:13 mean?

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For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13

Explanation

Philippians 2:13 speaks of the divine influence on human will and action, emphasizing that it is not just human effort alone, but God working through individuals to achieve His purposes. This verse underscores the belief in God’s sovereignty and providence, suggesting that behind a believer’s willingness (to will) and effectiveness in carrying out deeds (to do) lies God’s empowering presence. It reflects the concept that good intentions and right actions originate not from human nature alone but are prompted and empowered by God for the fulfillment of His desires and pleasure.

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Historical Context

The Book of Philippians is one of the Apostle Paul’s epistles, written approximately AD 61-63 while he was in prison, possibly in Rome. The letter is addressed to the Christian church in Philippi, a Roman colony in Macedonia. This was mainly a Greco-Roman culture with a significant number of Roman citizens. At the time, the Christian community faced external pressures and internal conflicts. Paul writes to encourage them to live in unity and humility, following the example of Christ, and to assure them that their strength and resolve come from God.

Theological Insights

Different theological streams may interpret Philippians 2:13 in various ways:

Calvinist Perspective: This viewpoint may emphasize God’s sovereign role in human volition and action. It essentially supports the idea that God predestines and energizes the believer’s actions and desires in alignment with His will.
Arminian Perspective: While also acknowledging God’s influence, this perspective may highlight the synergistic relationship between divine grace and human free will. Arminians might stress the human responsibility to cooperate with God’s working.
Catholic Perspective: This may include the role of actual grace – the temporary divine assistance given for specific circumstances to perform good actions. It supports the idea that while God initiates the grace, humans need to correspond actively with this grace.

Practical Applications

Philippians 2:13 can have several practical applications:

It serves as a reminder for humility, recognizing that our ability to desire and act for good comes from God.
It encourages believers to rely on God’s strength and guidance in their endeavors rather than on their own abilities alone.
It can provide comfort to those who feel inadequate for a task, assuring them of God’s enabling presence.
It can motivate believers to seek God’s will actively, as they understand that God is working in them towards a specific purpose.

Cross-References

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Hebrews 13:21 – “Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

Language Study

In the original Greek, the phrase “worketh in you” comes from the word “ἐνεργέω” (energeo), which means to be active, to work effectively or to put forth power. The term “to will” is from “θέλω” (thelo) meaning to desire or to be willing, and “to do” is from “ἐνεργέω” (energeo) again, in this context, referring to the execution of one’s will. This indicates that God is the one energizing both the intention and the execution of actions within believers.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Similar to Paul’s writing, many ancient religions and mythologies include the idea of divine beings influencing human actions. For example, in Greek mythology, the muses were thought to inspire humans in the arts and sciences. However, these influences were often seen as whimsical or unpredictable. In contrast, Paul presents a consistent divine purpose working through individuals for their and common good aligned with God’s will.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the concept of an external entity influencing human will and actions is not quantifiable or measurable. Neuroscience focuses on the brain’s physiological processes as the basis for decision-making and behavior, which does not consider metaphysical aspects. However, some researchers in fields such as psychology of religion may study the effects of belief in divine guidance on human behavior, noting potential benefits such as increased resilience and purpose.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer insights on Philippians 2:13:

John Calvin: saw this text as affirmation of divine sovereignty, holding that God is the one who effectively works in both the will and the deed.
John Wesley: emphasized cooperation with God’s grace, noting that while God is the primary source of good within us, we should not be passive but active participants.
Matthew Henry: called attention to the necessity of dependence on God’s aid for effective service and Christian living.
Gordon Fee: A contemporary scholar, views this passage as highlighting God’s transformative work in Christians, enabling them not only to will but also to work for his good pleasure.