Philippians 4:1 “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.”
Paul knew that there were some who were trying to lead the “brethren” away from the Gospel of Grace to another gospel “Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.” (Galatians 1:7). Those who “pervert” the Gospel profess a theological works system for Eternal Salvation that actually denies that Christ “finished” (John 19:30) everything necessary to “save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). They deftly mix certain parts of the Old Testament Law Service with New Testament Grace. In our day, it seems that every Christian organization has its own version of works for Eternal Salvation. Such works systems are intriguing to the carnal mind; and, they tend to glorify man more than God. The Lord Himself made it very clear that “truth” is essential to true worship: “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24). Notice that He used the word “must”, which leaves no room for variation or personal opinion, “truth” is not variable. The “truth” concerning Jesus Christ and our Eternal Salvation is eternally set in the Word of God and “must” not be altered in any way! Paul clearly declares that our salvation is a past tense event; that is, it is Jesus Christ “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,” (II Timothy 1:9)! Thus, Paul exhorts us to “stand fast in the Lord”; that is, the Lord will empower and equip us to “stand fast” in the “truth” that the “Lord” has revealed concerning Himself and His Sacrifice to “save his people from their sins”. To “stand fast” is to not be swayed by the intrigue of extra-Biblical teachings and practices. “stand fast” is an old military styled Commandment that means, the enemy is approaching, but you don’t’ move, don’t run away, don’t lose your focus, don’t be swayed by discouragement, and be ready to vigorously defend the Cause (I Peter 3:15). In our day, confusion abounds on every level; therefore, let us worshipfully “stand fast in the Lord”!