Scripture References: Colossians 3:17, 22-24; Genesis 1:28; Genesis 3:17-19; Ephesians 4:11-12; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20; 1 Peter 2:9; Philippians 2:5-15; 1 Corinthians 7:17-24
Intro: Welcome! We continue exploring work, building on last week's idea that work, though originally good (Gen 1), often feels broken due to the Fall (Gen 3). Today, we focus on how Christ redeems work. This requires redefining "the Lord's work" – it's not just for pastors, but for every believer obeying God's call in their specific vocation. Let's see how Colossians 3 guides us to live distinctly for Christ in our daily work.
Key Points:
- Your Work IS "The Lord's Work": If God called you to it, it's His work. Motivation matters more than the task itself. There's no sacred/secular divide; God values all work done faithfully for Him (priesthood of all believers). You have a "ministry of reconciliation" right where you are (2 Cor 5:18-20).
- Living Distinctly at Work: As God's chosen people (1 Pet 2:9), we're called to stand out. How?
- Work Heartily for the Lord (Col 3:22-24): Do everything enthusiastically as if Jesus is your direct boss, not just to please people or only when watched. This applies to all tasks, big or small. Trust Him for your reward (inheritance). This perspective helps both the underappreciated (God rewards) and the overworked (God provides).
- Take Wise Risks: Don't just play it safe. Be bold yet shrewd. Risk comfort or status to share Jesus or live out kingdom values. Don't let "friendship evangelism" become perpetual silence.
- No Grumbling/Complaining (Phil 2:14-15): Simply avoiding negativity makes you "shine like stars." Submit respectfully even to difficult leaders, for the Lord's sake – that makes you distinct.
- Use Your Spiritual Gifts: Gifts (mercy, leadership, teaching, etc.) are for the mission field (your workplace, community), not just church meetings. Use them where God has placed you.
- Fulfilling the Cultural Mandate (Gen 1:28): God's first command was to "be fruitful... fill the earth and subdue it" – to develop culture, build civilization, harness creation. Our work is part of fulfilling this original purpose, redeemed through Christ.
Conclusion: God is redeeming work. We participate by recognizing our daily jobs as ministry, doing them heartily for the Lord, living distinctly through our attitude and actions, using our gifts, and fulfilling His creation mandate. Your work matters for eternity when done for Him.
Call to Action: Own your vocation as ministry this week. Identify one way to work more "heartily as unto the Lord." Pray about taking one wise risk for the Gospel at work. Choose to stop grumbling. Ask God how to use your spiritual gifts in your daily tasks. Be distinct for His glory.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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