Redeemer Church Mauritius
Today we are continuing our Genesis series, and reflecting on the theme of work as we go back to the beginning of creation. According to Scripture, work is not only a vital aspect of human existence, but it also reflects God's character and purpose.
The creation story contains one of the most significant illustrations of God at work and highlights that God's creative work was done not from afar, but via active participation and effort. In the same way, as we are created in God's image, we were created to work too. Work is not a punishment for sin but rather a privilege and responsibility bestowed upon us by God. Our work allows us to collaborate with God in the continual process of creation, to care for His earth, and to bring glory to His name.
Genesis 2:1-8, 15 NIV
Genesis 3:17-19 NIV
1. God is a worker
God is a working God. He is the Creator; a Potter; a Planter; a Commander; an Evaluator, and a Builder.
The creation story contains one of the most significant illustrations of God at work. This highlights that God's creative work was done not from afar, but via active participation and effort.
2. God created humanity to work
Genesis 1:27 (NIV)
So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
If we are made in God's image, we can only conclude that we were created to work.
God put Adam in the Garden of Eden to work and care for it. Work is not a punishment for sin but rather a privilege and responsibility bestowed upon us by God.
Our work allows us to collaborate with God in the continual process of creation, to care for His earth, and to bring glory to His name. It is inherent in our nature.
3. Work was affected by sin
God gave us work in the beginning, and it was a good thing. But the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden brought sin into the world. This altered the nature of work, resulting in suffering, toil, and dissatisfaction.
The repercussions of Adam and Eve's sin include the curse placed on the ground, which would produce thorns and thistles and require hard labour to produce food.
4. How to work God's way
- View your work as a call from God.
- Make your work your worship.
- See your work as a community obligation and responsibility.
Remember:
Use your work as an opportunity to worship God.