[HiTech RedNeck]

Working out one's salvation with fear in trembling is because (and please continue to read on in the passage) "it is God who worketh in you." In other words, eternal damnation is not the issue. It is the discipline of the saved.

The term "working out" is etymologically the same as that which means to "vomit" -- believe it or not. It is to bring forth because of compelling force.

[farmer18th]

"vomit" -- believe it or not. It is to bring forth because of compelling force.

Thanks for that. It proves the Lord's point even more powerfully. What is more "fearful" than to be "vomit" out the great working of the Lord in you? Everyone in the Bible who came close to the Lord's presence had to be assured "fear not." His presence is might, worthy of fear, and in fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.