Here’s today’s sermon.
Divine Design at Work: Embracing God's Purpose in Labor
*Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." - Colossians 3:23 (NLT)
Opening Introduction
In this sermon at Summit Church NYC, this labor day weekend let’s look at the importance of work, a significant component of our lives, consuming 40% of our time. We'll explore how work goes beyond financial gains, becoming a vessel for personal fulfillment, a means of bearing witness through our character, a way to fulfill our family responsibilities, and a chance to make a lasting impact on God's kingdom. As we embark on this journey, we'll also reflect on the fact that God's continuous work is evident throughout the Bible, inspiring us to find purpose in our own endeavors.
Sermon Objective
- Helping individuals understand how to infuse their work with God's purpose
- Encouraging a perspective shift towards work as a divine calling
The Triune God and Laborers at Work
* Genesis 1:1-3 (NLT): "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. Then God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light."
* John 5:19 (NLT): "So Jesus explained, 'I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.'"
* John 19:30 (NLT): "When Jesus had tasted it, he said, 'It is finished!' Then he bowed his head and released his spirit."
* Acts 1:8 (NLT): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
* Colossians 1:29 (NLT): "That’s why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me."
* John 6:10-11 (NLT): "Jesus said, 'Tell everyone to sit down.' So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (The men alone numbered about 5,000.) Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward, he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted."
* This powerful ensemble of Scriptures illustrates how each person of the Trinity was intricately involved in the work of creation, redemption, empowerment, and provision.
* As seen through Paul's example and the disciples' action, just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work in harmony, we too are called to align our efforts with God's divine purpose in every aspect of our labor, trusting that God's work is ongoing and that His power enables us to work tirelessly for His glory.
Big ideas on why we work
Based on the provided transcript, here are six reasons to work that can be derived:
1. **Identity and Significance:**
2. **Meaning and Fulfillment:**
3. **Witness and Credibility:**
4. **Family and Responsibility:**
5. **Eternal Impact:**
6. **Preparation for Eternity:**
the big picture
- **W**: Work with purpose according to God's plan.
- **O**: Observe Jesus' example of balanced diligence and rest.
- **R**: Rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength.
- **K**: Keep a heart of worship and gratitude in all tasks.
- **S**: Sharpen your spiritual growth through challenges at work.
Consider the symbolism of Jesus' crown of thorns—a powerful shift from the Genesis curse. It beckons us toward a profound healing—a reconciliation with our view of work. Shifting away from perceiving labor as punishment and obstacle, we're invited to embrace a redeemed perspective—one that casts work as a gateway to purpose and opportunity. Along this journey, reflect on Jacob's wisdom to Benjamin—prioritize 'career' early, embodying the wolf that hunts by day and divides spoils at dusk
If you’re like, that was informative content, and want to buy me like 10 cups of coffee, then go ahead :)
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