π LESSON THREE: CHRISTIAN TEACHING ON WORK
π― Learning Outcomes
By the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
Describe the Christian teachings about work
The Christian teaching on work is based mainly on the interpretation of the Bible, the teachings of Jesus and the teachings of the apostles.
ποΈ 1. God Instituted Work
God himself instituted work. He created the heavens and the earth and all in it. Since God worked, man should work. (Gen. 2:1)
β¨ 2. Work Should Be Good
God’s work of creation is good (Gen. 1:31). Christians should endeavour to produce good works.
βοΈ 3. Work Is a Duty
Work is a duty, an obligation, a command. Christians are responsible for God’s creation (Gen. 2:15). They are to protect it – animals, birds, plants, and marine life are all under the care of man.
π 4. Work Provides Basic Needs
Human beings should work to acquire their basic needs (Genesis 1:29-30, 3:19). God blesses the work of our hands.
π 5. Co-Creators With God
Human beings are co-creators with God (Gen. 1:28). God continues to create through human beings. Human beings glorify God through their work.
π 6. God Reveals Himself Through Work
God reveals himself through his work of creation. God had a purpose for his creation. He is orderly, a source of life, Almighty, etc.
π€ 7. Work Is Cooperative
Work is a co-operative undertaking. Eve was created to be Adam’s helper (Gen. 2:20). Christians should cooperate in their undertakings.
πͺ 8. Hard Work Is Praised
Hard work is praised and laziness is looked down upon (Proverbs 31:27). Christians should work for their daily needs and not become a burden to others.
π΄ 9. Work Should Include Rest
Work should be accompanied by rest (Gen. 2:2). God rested on the 7th day from all his work. God commanded the Israelites to rest on the 7th day.
π 10. Enjoy the Fruits of Labour
People should enjoy what they have worked for (Ecc. 3:22).
π 11. Work for God’s Glory
Work should be done for the glory of God and for the good of society.
β 12. Work Honestly
People should work honestly, not steal, but work to earn an honest living (Eph. 4:28).
π½οΈ 13. No Work, No Eat
Those who do not work should not eat.
β° 14. Always Work
They should always work since God is always at work (John 15:17).
π Biblical Foundation of Work
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23