Even in light of Christ’s imminent return, we should not quit our jobs and cease providing value to our communities. God expects us to remain productive and ensure that our jobs are an outlet for ministry rather than an obstruction.
1 Thessalonians 4:9-12
Problems
- Some of the Thessalonian disciples were so expectant of Christ’s return that they quit being productive.
- If you comprehend the potential impact your life can make, you will change how you view your job.
Instructions
- Anyone who knows God should not be surprised regarding His standard for how we ought to love one another (4:9).
- Disciples changed by the gospel will not be content to keep God’s love within the walls of one congregation (4:10).
- None of us have yet arrived at how loving we could be to others (4:10).
- If you focus on what God has called you to do, you won’t have time to meddle in other affairs (4:11).
- Don’t get sidetracked in nonessential issues that you lose the right to speak to the most important one (4:11).
- Steady, reliable workers can bring glory to God and good to others through any type of honest work (4:11).
- Your caliber of work says something about the God you serve to the coworkers around you (4:12).
- Being financially stable allows you and others to prioritize Kingdom generosity (4:12).
Opportunities
- Your job provides resources and relationships that can forever change lives.
- Our church’s love for others is so inspiring that it would be a shame if we kept it to ourselves.
- Our current challenges are not a lack of opportunities but an uncertainty regarding capacities.
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.