Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22-25
Introduction:
1. Part of the arrangement of the home in Paul’s time included servants-masters.
2. Despite many differences, these passages speak to the Lord’s ethical demands for His people in the workplace, an arrangement that benefits all who embrace it.
Discussion:
I. The Origin of Work
A. Work is an inherent part of God’s plan and purpose for humanity (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15).
B. Knowing God’s nature, work must be seen as beneficial to humanity (Deuteronomy 6:24; James 1:17).
II. The Commandment to Work
A. As with every purpose God has for us, He commands His people to work (2 Thessalonians 3:7-12).
B. Obviously, we must distinguish between can’t work and won’t work, but all who can work must work.
III. The Ethics of Work
A. God has prescribed proper ethics for our work.
B. In this we find we are to work:
1. To benefit rather than burden others (Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-8).
2. With goodwill (Ephesians 6:5-6; Colossians 3:22).
3. As working for Christ, not merely men (Ephesians 6:6-7; Colossians 3:23; cf. Matthew 25:31-46).
IV. The Rewards of Work
A. As always, God rewards the faithful promising:
1. A return for their labors (Ephesians 6:8).
2. A harvest for toiling so (Galatians 6:7-10).
3. Above all, an eternal inheritance (Colossians 3:24; 1 Timothy 6:18-19; 1 Corinthians 15:58).
B. Others may overlook our labors, but God never forgets nor overlooks them (Hebrews 6:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10).
Conclusion:
1. These principles apply to any and every context wherein we labor for others.
2. Imagine a world where everyone adopted this attitude and served in this way?
3. May we shine our lights in the workplace and bring praise to His name once more.