One of the things we discussed at the NYC church planter round table last month was the general lack of resources to help people understand how their faith ought to work itself out in the context of their jobs.
Most people spend most of their waking hours at a job, working. If our discipleship to Jesus doesn’t have an impact on our careers it’s probably not robust enough. If our faith doesn’t really weave itself into the thing most of us spend most of our time doing, then our faith is just a hobby and we’re not really “seeking first the kingdom” (Matt 6:33).
But most of the theology that’s out there can basically be reduced to: “Work hard and be moral.” Most of the time, that’s all we can think of! Being part of God’s kingdom at work = Don’t yell at people, don’t lie or cheat or steal, don’t complain as much as your co-workers. Yawn.
This is why I was excited about the framework that Jon Tyson (from Trinity Grace Church) was developing to “trace the redemptive edge of industry,” and help people think missionally about their careers. The six guiding principles are below, in sketch form. I’d love your thoughts.