"How We Live" :Work

3:22-4:1
Jewish slavery at that time was different then Roman slavery or even the slavery that happened in our country many years ago. A slave would serve for seven years then leave with a payment of some of his masters assets, so in some senses it would be similar to enlisting in the military, there is a commitment and a benefit.

Paul’s intention here is to not change the rules by to inwardly impact how this economy is lived out.

Today we can apply this to our current work situations employee and employer
-Before we do that we have to look at a Theology of Work -Back to Genesis

How do you know if your career choice is your calling?
-Do you get a sense of fulfillment in your work?
-Do the benefits outweigh the stress? 70/30 rule
-Does it allow you adequate time for your other responsibilities?
-Does it provide for your family?
-Does it give you opportunities to share your Christian example and speak to others about Christ?

Obviously there is always tension in situations where there is a long term commitment and Paul speaks to how the Christian should respond in this passage.

Vrs 22
The way we should work (this includes the stay at home mom)
-“in all things obey” Obedient to the rules of your workplace
-“not with eye-service or men-pleasers” Look good for Jesus. Not to please others but so they know you are a believer.
Are there other believers at your workplace that can encourage you, pray for you and fellowship with you?
-“fearing the Lord” Obedient to the Lord- Unethical behavior Total Truth Illustration
Your boss asks you to sin
Vrs 23
-“do it heartily” Diligently
-“as to the Lord” For Jesus, In each situation you need to ask…”if Jesus asked me to do this what would I do?” or “If Jesus where watching me how would I work?”
Vrs 24
-“receive a reward” Focus on the reward. temporal spiritual, future spiritual (motivation)
-“you serve Jesus” Not condoning sin but is careful not to condemn others GOSPEL Jesus did not come to condemn John 3:17
Remember this is the job of the Holy Spirit let Him do that convicting work
Vrs 25
- Rest in the justice of Jesus, things at work will be unfair but trust that Jesus will not only make them right but deal out justice in His perfect plan. Conditions are unfair? God does not say” too bad you are not the boss” HE says “I will take care of that”

Vrs 4:1 If you are the boss…
-Give a fair wage
-Give proper benefits
-Give adequate time of rest.
-Treat with respect & dignity
-Act like Jesus
The Boss still have to answer to Jesus