Work as Worship

Redeeming Our Labor for the Lord

Bible Passage: Genesis 1:26–28, Genesis 2:15, Genesis 3:17–19, Colossians 3:22–24

Summary: The selected passages explore the biblical foundation of work, illustrating that humans were created to work as part of God’s plan, with the fall affecting the nature of work but not its intrinsic value. The call to work diligently in Colossians shows how our efforts can be an act of worship and service to the Lord.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to reframe their view of work, seeing it as not just a means to an end but as a form of worship that can glorify God in everyday life. In doing so, listeners can find purpose in their labor, regardless of the challenges they face.

Teaching: The key teaching is that all work has dignity and purpose when done in obedience to God, illustrating that our daily activities can be expressions of our relationship with Him. Moreover, the sermon will address how to navigate the difficulties of work in a fallen world.

How this passage could point to Christ: The essence of work and its redemptive purpose culminates in Christ, who exemplified perfect obedience and labor in His earthly ministry. In Him, our work finds ultimate meaning and fulfillment as believers are called to continue His mission in the world through their vocations.

Big Idea: Our everyday work, whether secular or sacred, is a profound expression of our faith and can serve to advance God’s kingdom when approached with the right heart and intentions.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider diving into the biblical theology of work in your Logos library, particularly exploring how Genesis frames work before and after the fall. Look for commentary insights specifically related to Colossians 3:22–24, as understanding cultural context and application in the first-century setting can enhance your message. It might also be beneficial to examine how historical and contemporary theologians have interpreted work as worship.

1. Created with a Calling

Genesis 1:26–28

Christian Standard Bible Chapter 1

26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, the whole earth, and the creatures that crawl on the earth.”

27 So God created man in his own image;

he created him in the image of God;

he created them male and female.

28 God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, and every creature that crawls on the earth.”

A. God created mankind with a mission, world domination.

Multiply -

2. Sin Stunted Work’s Satisfaction

Genesis 3:17–19

Consider addressing the impact of sin on work, as depicted in the curse of toil and labor from Genesis 3. This passage underscores the reality that despite sin's presence, work remains a significant aspect of human existence. The struggle and frustration that come with work can be understood as part of the brokenness Christ came to redeem. This perspective can empathize with contemporary work challenges, providing hope in Christ’s redemption, pointing to a future restoration where labor will fully be joyful once again.

3. Hard Work is Heartfelt Worship

Colossians 3:22–24

Maybe focus on the exhortation to work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men. This New Testament perspective invites believers to align their work with a heavenly purpose, reminding them that they serve Christ in all they do. It shifts the focus from being people-pleasers to serving as faithful workers in God's kingdom. This should inspire the congregation to transform their view of work from a secular obligation to a sacred mission, elevating daily tasks to acts of worship and dedication to God.