Biblical Answer

The Purpose of Work Biblically

The purpose of work biblically is multifaceted, encompassing three primary areas: God, others, and self. Firstly, work is seen as a means to glorify God and demonstrate His power and sovereignty in our lives. This is evident in passages such as Colossians 3:23-24, where believers are exhorted to put their hearts into their work, seeing themselves as working for the Lord, not any human master. This perspective encourages Christians to view work as an opportunity to showcase God's work in their lives, as Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 3:6-7, "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow."

Secondly, work is also understood as a means to provide for others in need, as seen in the example of Paul, who worked as a tentmaker to avoid being a burden to others (Acts 20:35; 1 Timothy 6:18; Titus 3:14). This aspect of work emphasizes the importance of stewarding resources well and being of help to those around us. In this sense, work becomes an act of love and service to others, as Jesus taught in Matthew 25:31-46, where He emphasizes the importance of caring for the poor and vulnerable.

Lastly, work is also a means to personal growth and development, as it provides an opportunity for us to learn, develop skills, and exercise our gifts and talents. As John Stott notes, "Work is the expenditure of energy to produce something of value." When we connect our work with a larger purpose, we can find satisfaction and fulfillment in what we do, even in difficult circumstances (Philippians 4:12-13). Ultimately, the purpose of work biblically is to glorify God, serve others, and cultivate a deeper relationship with Him, as we strive to live a life hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3).