Work
A Theology
April 16, 2023 • Stephen Putbrese • Genesis 2:5–17
Work is an often overlooked topic in the church. We tend to approach it without thinking critically about why we're working in the first place or what it's ultimately for. Most Christians work under the framework that work is only to provide for their families and to allow them to serve the church. While both of these are good things, the full biblical theology of work is much richer and more holistic. This teaching will examine God's design and purpose for work, which is good and dignifying, but also glorifies him (even outside of formal ministry).
For The Lord
April 23, 2023 • Stephen Putbrese • Colossians 3:22—4:1
In Colossians 3, the Apostle Paul gives directions to both employees and employers, describing how both should conduct themselves in their work environment and toward one another. Paul's theological understanding of work was revolutionary during his day - while bondservants should obey their masters and work hard for them, masters were also called to treat them well because their status in Christ was the same. This teaching will explore work and identity. The Christian view of work provides an unparalleled freedom and flexibility around work that both dignifies even the lowest profession while also empowering godly ambition.
Calling
April 30, 2023 • Mitch Jordan • Exodus 31:1–11
In one sense, it doesn't matter what we work at if we do it for Jesus' sake and any work can be glorifying to God. But there is also such a thing as calling - God has made every person with specific gifts, abilities, and aptitudes that we are to walk in and discover. How do I know my calling? This teaching will explain what calling is and how we discover ours.
Vexation
May 7, 2023 • Stephen Putbrese • Ecclesiastes 2:18–26
The biblical ideal for work is truly amazing - work is designed by God, dignifying to the individual, and allows us to pursue God's calling on our lives. However, to fully understand work we also need to look at the real, not just the ideal. The reality of work on the ground is that it's often hard, fruitless, and meaningless. We must contend with thorns and thistles as we try to live out God's design. How do we do this? This teaching will explore how to deal with the futility and frustration of work and bridge the gap between the real and the ideal.