Theology of Work (Work in Progress)

Introduction

Tensions

The aversion to work in our generation.

The need to find fulfillment in WHAT we do.

Companies are always trying eschew the “values.”

The de-spiritualizing of work.

Somewhere along the line we shifted to finding our purpose and fulfillment IN our work, rather than in WHO we work for.

First time work is mentioned in the Bible - Genesis 2:15 “15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.”

The very act of work is spiritual

Work

Provision

Proverbs 12:11 “11 Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense.”

Proverbs 13:4 “4 The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.”

1 Timothy 5:8 “8 But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

Purpose

Financial Blessing - Ephesians 4:28 “28 Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.”

Ministry Blessing - 1Thess 2:9 “9 For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.”

Perspective

Colossians 3:23 “23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,”

Proverbs 16:3 “3 Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”