Question 356: What is work in the Christian life?

Answer:

Work in the Christian life is a God-given calling to serve others, steward creation, and glorify God in all that I do. Work is not a result of the Fall but part of God’s original design for humanity, now redeemed in Christ and made holy when offered in faith. Whether in paid labor, service at home, ministry, or volunteer efforts, Christian work reflects God’s character and participates in His purposes for the world. (Genesis 2:15, Colossians 3:23–24, Ephesians 2:10, Proverbs 16:3, 1 Corinthians 15:58)

Full Scripture References

“Then the LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it.” – Genesis 2:15 (BSB)

“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Colossians 3:23–24 (BSB)

“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.” – Ephesians 2:10 (BSB)

“Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be achieved.” – Proverbs 16:3 (BSB)

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58 (BSB)

Expanded Explanation of Catechism Question

Work is not a curse—it is a calling. From the beginning, God created humanity to work: to cultivate, to create, to build, and to bless. Though work was frustrated by the Fall, it remains good and holy when done in service to the Lord. Bishop Charlie Masters (ANiC, Diocese of the Living Word) writes, “Work is not a secular burden but a sacred trust. In Christ, every task becomes an offering when done with faith and love.” (Labor in the Lord, 2022)

In the Christian life, work takes on a redemptive purpose. Whether we work in business, education, ministry, medicine, parenting, or craftsmanship, our work is a way to glorify God and love our neighbor. Fr. Isaac Rehberg (ACNA, All Saints San Antonio, TX) explains, “Work is worship when it flows from a heart surrendered to Christ. You don’t need a collar to serve the kingdom—your desk, your kitchen, your workshop are altars, too.” (Faithful Work, 2021)

Christians are called to excellence, integrity, and diligence in their labor, not to earn salvation, but to reflect God’s character. Fr. Caleb Evans (Anglican Orthodox Church, St. Stephen’s Mission, GA) teaches, “Our work is a reflection of the One who made and redeemed us. It is not meaningless toil but meaningful service, echoing the creative work of our Maker.” (Working for the King, 2020)

Work also forms our souls. It teaches patience, perseverance, humility, and self-sacrifice. The routine of work, when done faithfully, becomes a discipline of grace. Fr. Thomas Buchan (Anglican Union, St. Mark’s Anglican Church, VA) writes, “The Christian life is shaped in ordinary faithfulness. When we work for Christ, we grow into Christ.” (Work as Formation, 2021)

Canon George Grant (ACNA, Parish Presbyterian Church, TN) adds, “Work is not merely the means to an end—it is part of our discipleship. What matters is not what job you hold, but whom you serve through it. Every honest task, done in Christ, is holy.” (Recovering Anglican Piety, 2019)

Early Church Fathers on Catechism Question

“Let the Christian be diligent in labor, for by his hands he honors God and feeds the poor. In work, virtue is proven.” – Augustine of Hippo, Sermon on Christian Duties, c. 408 AD

“God gave man work not to weary him, but to make him wise. Let your labor be done in joy, for it is part of God’s will for your soul.” – Basil the Great, Homily on Labor and Idleness, c. 370 AD

“Whatever task is before you, do it for Christ. The Christian’s work is light when borne with love.” – John Chrysostom, Homily on Colossians 3, c. 390 AD

“Let your hands labor not only for bread, but for mercy. In your work, let your heart remain with God.” – Cyprian of Carthage, On the Life of the Faithful, c. 250 AD