Intro:
- I thought I would reflect this Labor Day weekend on what the Bible says about work, the Christian work ethic, and the Christian in the workplace.
- Work is a mixed blessing. Work is both rewarding and a toil as the result of the fall of man [Gen. 3:17].
Transition: The Christian is to take on God’s view and a Christian view in regard to work. I want to share some thoughts on the Christian work ethic.
1. God ordained work.
God ordained work and work ethics in the garden of Eden [Gen. 1:27-30; 2:15-20].
2. Work has become a struggle.
What was intended to have joy in the original creation has become a struggle because of the curse due to sin [Gen 3:17-19].
3. Work without complaining.
We must do everything without complaining to be a good witness before the world [Phil. 2:14].
4. Obey our employers.
We are to obey our employers [Eph. 6:5-9; Col. 3:22-25].
5. Stay away from the lazy.
We are to stay away from the able-bodied who don’t work and can work [2 Thess. 3:6-13].
6. Provide for our family.
We work to provide for our family [1 Tim. 5:8].
7. Be honest.
We are to be honest in our work [Titus 2:9-10].
8. Share with others.
We are to share with those in need [Eph. 4:28].
9. Value of work.
The value of work is not measured by the wealth it produces for us, but the opportunities it provides for ministry.
