Spirit-Filled Work

Spirit-Filled Work Ephesians 6:5-9 Context 1. Paul on Spirit-filled relationships 2. Husbands-Wives; Children-Fathers; Bondservants-Masters 3. Paul now turns his attention to a third relationship, which might seem out of place at first, but is far more relevant than we might think. Slavery in the Ancient World • • What was it? 1. Utterly pervasive and broad institution that tackled many problems we still face. 2. Highly regulated in the Old Testament. Paul’s Perspective 1. Make redemption your focus (1 Corinthians 7:2124) 2. No distinctions in the Church (1 Corinthians 12:13) 3. Strongly discouraged among Christian brothers (Philemon 1:8-19) 6 Traits of the Spirit-Filled Worker 1. Keeps a constant Godward focus (see 5x reminder) 2. Obeys Christ by obeying his/her boss (6:5) • • In fear and trembling – see Mark 5:33; 2 Cor. 7:15 Singleness: Simplicity; opposite of a person who is either two-faced or has mixed motives 3. Demonstrates faithful character such that Christ, rather than the worker, is honored (6:6a) 4. Keeps God’s will central at the center of his/her life, which flows out into work (6:6b – see NASB note) 6 Traits of the Spirit-Filled Worker 5. Keeps a positive, wholehearted attitude of good for one’s employer (6:7) 6. Remembers God’s certain reward for doing even the most menial tasks well (6:6a, see also Luke 16:10; 19:17) 2 Traits of the Spirit-Filled Boss 1. Never threatens his/her employees with harm (6:9a) 2. Bearing in mind always that although certain people may be subordinates in the workplace, God sees all as equal (6:9b; see also James 2:1ff) Conclusion • What we do pails in comparison to who we are. • We should never work Christ around our careers, but our careers around Christ.