“Do all things without complaining and disputing…” Philippians 2:14
Paul continues his discussion of the Philippians working out their own salvation with fear and trembling. In doing so he gives practical advice as how to live in a way that is pleasing to God. It also provides insight into developing unity within the body of believers. Finally, His instruction teaches us about the holiness of God, for not to follow these commands is sin.
Do The Greek word covers all actions from creation through implementation. When Paul told the Philippians to “work out” their salvation he is taking about real life. He expects action – behaviors that reflects the mind of Christ. In essence Paul commands that believers continually make this their way of life.
All things Paul tells a church that is suffering and facing persecution that they are to act like Christ in every situation they encounter. Having the mind of Christ is universal – there are no situations where God’s truth is not valid. As believers we often want to lower the bar – maybe say “some things”. Paul tells us God’s standard of holiness – “all things”.
Without complaining It is interesting that as Paul instructs believers on having the mind of Christ and creating unity in the church that the first indication of humility he lists is an uncomplaining spirit. Strong’s Concordance definition of complaining (or murmuring) provides believers with insight of what to avoid. The word “goggusmos” refers to a low, muttered complaint or expression of discontent. It is used to describe the grumbling of those who are dissatisfied or rebellious against God or His appointed leaders. This behavior is secretive or subdued discontent, often expressed in a group. The word refers to murmuring against men (ultimately all grumbling is directed at God for He is in control) like the grumbling of the children of Israel in the wilderness when they complained against Moses. They muttered. in private, complaints they were afraid to say out loud. Paul indicates this is happening at Philippi but has not yet risen to the point of loud, public dissension. It is important for us to note that the thrice holy God is deadly serious about grumbling, whispering and cutting down other people, especially leaders. It is a sin He does not tolerate.
What can we learn? God hates murmuring and complaining. This sin is an attack on God’s sovereignty. Each time a believer complains about his circumstances, (people or problems) he is saying, “If I were God, I would do things differently.” The complainer is breaking the first and great commandment – to love and trust God with all one’s heart. If we are to work out our own salvation there are no small sins. Paul tells the church of Corinth I( Corinthians 10:9-11) “We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction”. The mind of Christ accepts God is sovereign and what He allows into our lives is meant to achieve God’s purpose – to bring us to maturity. Walking worthy means we accept whatever God allows and “in everything, we give thanks”. Murmuring and complaining spring from a spirit of
discontentment, mot thankfulness.