God created the heavens and the earth and rested on the seventh day from His work. As the image bearers of God, who is a worker, work is intrinsic to human nature. God created humans to be workers, as seen in the command to subdue the earth and the placement of Adam in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it. Therefore, work is designed by God and can be a holy endeavor for people.

1. A Biblical Look at Work
Dr. Ken Boa and Bill Ibsen
© Dr. Kenneth Boa & Bill Ibsen 2006. All Rights Reserved.

2. 2
The Problem

3. 2
The Problem
Most of my waking life is spent at work

4. 2
The Problem
Most of my waking life is spent at work
“Ministry is sacred, but work is secular”

5. 2
The Problem
Most of my waking life is spent at work
“Ministry is sacred, but work is secular”
“People in full-time ministry work for what God values”

6. 2
The Problem
Most of my waking life is spent at work
“Ministry is sacred, but work is secular”
“People in full-time ministry work for what God values”
“People in the marketplace work for money (‘filthy lucre’)”

7. 2
The Problem
Most of my waking life is spent at work
“Ministry is sacred, but work is secular”
“People in full-time ministry work for what God values”
“People in the marketplace work for money (‘filthy lucre’)”
“Most of my life doesn’t count in God’s economy”

8. 2
The Problem
Most of my waking life is spent at work
“Ministry is sacred, but work is secular”
“People in full-time ministry work for what God values”
“People in the marketplace work for money (‘filthy lucre’)”
“Most of my life doesn’t count in God’s economy”
“Business people are second-class citizen’s in God’s economy - they
have a lesser calling than full-time Christian workers”

9. 3
The Presupposition

10. 3
The Presupposition
“If you’re really sold-out to Jesus,
you’ll leave your secular job and go into full-time ministry”

11. 3
The Presupposition
“If you’re really sold-out to Jesus,
you’ll leave your secular job and go into full-time ministry”
Is this true?

12. 3
The Presupposition
“If you’re really sold-out to Jesus,
you’ll leave your secular job and go into full-time ministry”
Is this true?
Is this biblical?

13. 3
The Presupposition
“If you’re really sold-out to Jesus,
you’ll leave your secular job and go into full-time ministry”
Is this true?
Is this biblical?
Does my “secular” job matter at all to God?

14. 4
A Biblical Look At Work

15. 4
A Biblical Look At Work
Part I: Ten Basic Principles

16. 4
A Biblical Look At Work
Part I: Ten Basic Principles
Part II: Five Advanced Principles

17. Part I:
Ten Basic Principles

18. 6
Principle 1

19. 6
Principle 1
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth...” Genesis 1:1

20. 6
Principle 1
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth...” Genesis 1:1
“By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and
He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.”
Genesis 2:2

21. 6
Principle 1
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth...” Genesis 1:1
“By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and
He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.”
Genesis 2:2
“My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.” John 5:17

22. 7
Principle 1
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth...” Genesis 1:1
“By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and
He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.”
Genesis 2:2
“My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.” John 5:17

23. 8
Principle 1:
God is a Worker
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth...” Genesis 1:1
“By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and
He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.”
Genesis 2:2
“My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.” John 5:17

24. 9

25. 9
“I go on working for the same reason a hen goes on laying eggs”
H.L. Mencken

26. 9
“I go on working for the same reason a hen goes on laying eggs”
H.L. Mencken
Work is intrinsic to our nature:

27. 9
“I go on working for the same reason a hen goes on laying eggs”
H.L. Mencken
Work is intrinsic to our nature:
As Image bearers

28. 9
“I go on working for the same reason a hen goes on laying eggs”
H.L. Mencken
Work is intrinsic to our nature:
As Image bearers
Because God is a Worker

29. 10

30. 10
In creative activity,
we externalize our identities
as people made in the image of God

31. 11
#1 So What?
God is a Worker

32. 11
#1 So What?
Work is God-designed
God is a Worker

33. 11
#1 So What?
Work is God-designed
A product of His mind
God is a Worker

34. 11
#1 So What?
Work is God-designed
A product of His mind
An aspect to His character
God is a Worker

35. 11
#1 So What?
Work is God-designed
A product of His mind
An aspect to His character
Work can be a holy endeavor
God is a Worker

36. 12
Principle 2

37. 12
Principle 2
“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our
likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of
the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every
creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” Genesis 1:25

38. 12
Principle 2
“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our
likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of
the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every
creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” Genesis 1:25
“God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and
subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the
sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:28

39. 12
Principle 2
“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our
likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of
the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every
creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” Genesis 1:25
“God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and
subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the
sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:28
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him into the garden of
Eden to cultivate it and keep it.” Genesis 2:15

40. 13
Principle 2
“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our
likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of
the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every
creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” Genesis 1:25
“God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and
subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the
sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:28
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him into the garden of
Eden to cultivate it and keep it.” Genesis 2:15

41. 14
Principle 2:
God Created Man to be a Worker
“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our
likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of
the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every
creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” Genesis 1:25
“God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and
subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the
sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:28
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him into the garden of
Eden to cultivate it and keep it.” Genesis 2:15

42. 15
#2 So What?
God Created Man to Be a Worker

43. 15
#2 So What?
We are God-wired to work
God Created Man to Be a Worker

44. 15
#2 So What?
We are God-wired to work
Work is in our best interest
God Created Man to Be a Worker

45. 15
#2 So What?
We are God-wired to work
Work is in our best interest
Like God, we are designed
to build, create,
communicate, and take on
challenges in our work
God Created Man to Be a Worker

46. 15
#2 So What?
We are God-wired to work
Work is in our best interest
Like God, we are designed
to build, create,
communicate, and take on
challenges in our work
Thus, work can engage us at
a deep level of our being
God Created Man to Be a Worker

47. 16
Principle 3

48. 16
Principle 3
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him
into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.”
Genesis 2:15

49. 16
Principle 3
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him
into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.”
Genesis 2:15
When the woman saw that the tree was good for food,
and that it was a delight to the eyes,
and that the tree was desirable to make one wise,
she took from its fruit and ate;
and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. Genesis 3:6

50. 17
Principle 3:
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him
into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.”
When the woman saw that the tree was good for food,
and that it was a delight to the eyes,
and that the tree was desirable to make one wise,
she took from its fruit and ate;
and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.

51. 17
Principle 3:
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him
into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.”
Genesis 2:15
When the woman saw that the tree was good for food,
and that it was a delight to the eyes,
and that the tree was desirable to make one wise,
she took from its fruit and ate;
and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.

52. 17
Principle 3:
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him
into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.”
Genesis 2:15
When the woman saw that the tree was good for food,
and that it was a delight to the eyes,
and that the tree was desirable to make one wise,
she took from its fruit and ate;
and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. Genesis 3:6

53. 17
Principle 3:
God Created Work Pre-Fall
“Then the LORD God took the man and put him
into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.”
Genesis 2:15
When the woman saw that the tree was good for food,
and that it was a delight to the eyes,
and that the tree was desirable to make one wise,
she took from its fruit and ate;
and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. Genesis 3:6

54. 18
Observations About the Curse
from the Fall

55. 18
Observations About the Curse
from the Fall
“Cursed is the ground because of you;
In toil you will eat of it
All the days of your life.

56. 18
Observations About the Curse
from the Fall
“Cursed is the ground because of you;
In toil you will eat of it
All the days of your life.
Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you;
And you will eat the plants of the field;

57. 18
Observations About the Curse
from the Fall
“Cursed is the ground because of you;
In toil you will eat of it
All the days of your life.
Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you;
And you will eat the plants of the field;
By the sweat of your face
You will eat bread,
Till you return to the ground...” Genesis 3:17-19

58. 19
#3 So What?
God Created Work Pre-Fall

59. 19
#3 So What?
Work was created in Paradise
God Created Work Pre-Fall

60. 19
#3 So What?
Work was created in Paradise
Work was intended for Paradise
God Created Work Pre-Fall

61. 19
#3 So What?
Work was created in Paradise
Work was intended for Paradise
Work is not a product of sin,
but is expressed in fallen world
God Created Work Pre-Fall

62. 20
Principle 4:
God Calls Work “Very Good”

63. 20
Principle 4:
God Calls Work “Very Good”
“God saw all that He had made,
and behold,
it was very good.”
Genesis 1:31

64. 21
Principle 4:
God Calls Work “Very Good”
“God saw all that He had made,
and behold,
it was very good.”
Genesis 1:31

65. 21
Principle 4:
God Calls Work “Very Good”
rts
ts pa
an di
h ole
h ew
=T
“God saw all that He had made,
and behold,
it was very good.”
Genesis 1:31

66. 21
Principle 4:
God Calls Work “Very Good”
g
r ts rkin
pa n wo
its ma
and ing:
ole lud
e wh inc
= Th arts
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“God saw all that He had made,
and behold,
it was very good.”
Genesis 1:31

67. 22
#4 So What?
God Calls Work “Very Good”

68. 22
#4 So What?
In God’s economy, work is very good
God Calls Work “Very Good”

69. 22
#4 So What?
In God’s economy, work is very good
To assert that work is in any way
substandard to God’s plan is unbiblical
thinking
God Calls Work “Very Good”

70. 22
#4 So What?
In God’s economy, work is very good
To assert that work is in any way
substandard to God’s plan is unbiblical
thinking
To assert that work can only be evil is
unbiblical thinking
God Calls Work “Very Good”

71. 22
#4 So What?
In God’s economy, work is very good
To assert that work is in any way
substandard to God’s plan is unbiblical
thinking
To assert that work can only be evil is
unbiblical thinking
Working in the marketplace (in spite of
being marred by sin) can be
considered by God as very good
God Calls Work “Very Good”

72. 23
Principle 5:
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace

73. 23
Principle 5:
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace
“Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting:
to eat, to drink and enjoy oneself in all one’s labor
in which he toils under the sun
during the few years of his life which God has given him;
for this is his reward.

74. 23
Principle 5:
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace
“Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting:
to eat, to drink and enjoy oneself in all one’s labor
in which he toils under the sun
during the few years of his life which God has given him;
for this is his reward.
Furthermore, as for every man to whom God
has given riches and wealth,
He has also empowered him to eat from them
and to receive his reward and rejoice in his labor;
this is the gift of God.” Ecclesiastes 3:18-19

75. 24
#5 So What?
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace

76. 24
#5 So What?
God designed an aspect of
labor that we are to enjoy
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace

77. 24
#5 So What?
God designed an aspect of
labor that we are to enjoy
We are to rejoice in our labor
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace

78. 24
#5 So What?
God designed an aspect of
labor that we are to enjoy
We are to rejoice in our labor
Biblically, it is right and good
to “love” our work
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace

79. 24
#5 So What?
God designed an aspect of
labor that we are to enjoy
We are to rejoice in our labor
Biblically, it is right and good
to “love” our work
Labor is a gift from God
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace

80. 24
#5 So What?
God designed an aspect of
labor that we are to enjoy
We are to rejoice in our labor
Biblically, it is right and good
to “love” our work
Labor is a gift from God
Labor should elicit our
gratitude to God
God Made Work an Expression of His Grace

81. 25
Principle 6:
God Commands Men to Work

82. 25
Principle 6:
God Commands Men to Work
“For even when we were with you,
we used to give you this order:

83. 25
Principle 6:
God Commands Men to Work
“For even when we were with you,
we used to give you this order:
if anyone is not willing to work,
then he is not to eat, either.”
1 Thessalonians 3:10

84. 25
Principle 6:
God Commands Men to Work
“For even when we were with you,
we used to give you this order:
if anyone is not willing to work,
then he is not to eat, either.”
1 Thessalonians 3:10
“He who steals must steal no longer;
but rather he must labor,
performing with his own hands what is good,
so that he will have something to share
with one who has need.” Ephesians 5:28

85. 26
Example of Principle 6:
God’s People Working Diligently

86. 26
Example of Principle 6:
God’s People Working Diligently
“nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it,
but with labor and hardship we kept working night and day
so that we would not be a burden to any of you” 2 Thessalonians 3:8

87. 26
Example of Principle 6:
God’s People Working Diligently
“nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it,
but with labor and hardship we kept working night and day
so that we would not be a burden to any of you” 2 Thessalonians 3:8
“and we toil, working with our own hands...” 1 Corinthians 4:12

88. 27
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople

89. 27
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Adam: farmer

90. 27
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Adam: farmer
Abraham, Issac, Jacob: ranchers

91. 27
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Adam: farmer
Abraham, Issac, Jacob: ranchers
Joseph: administrator and ruler

92. 27
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Adam: farmer
Abraham, Issac, Jacob: ranchers
Joseph: administrator and ruler
Moses: shepherd

93. 27
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Adam: farmer
Abraham, Issac, Jacob: ranchers
Joseph: administrator and ruler
Moses: shepherd
David: shepherd and ruler

94. 27
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Adam: farmer
Abraham, Issac, Jacob: ranchers
Joseph: administrator and ruler
Moses: shepherd
David: shepherd and ruler
Proverbs 31 Woman: realtor

95. 28
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople

96. 28
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Daniel: ruler

97. 28
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Daniel: ruler
Nehemiah: construction

98. 28
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Daniel: ruler
Nehemiah: construction
Lydia: garment salesperson

99. 28
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Daniel: ruler
Nehemiah: construction
Lydia: garment salesperson
Peter: fisherman

100. 28
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Daniel: ruler
Nehemiah: construction
Lydia: garment salesperson
Peter: fisherman
Paul: tentmaker

101. 28
The Bible’s Primary Characters
are Businesspeople
Daniel: ruler
Nehemiah: construction
Lydia: garment salesperson
Peter: fisherman
Paul: tentmaker
Jesus: carpenter

102. 29
Businesspeople in the Bible

103. 29
Businesspeople in the Bible
Goods Producers: cattle farmers, vineyard tenders, iron
workers, carpenters, tentmakers, textile producers

104. 29
Businesspeople in the Bible
Goods Producers: cattle farmers, vineyard tenders, iron
workers, carpenters, tentmakers, textile producers
Managers: of grain suppliers, of employees, building projects,
armies, finances

105. 29
Businesspeople in the Bible
Goods Producers: cattle farmers, vineyard tenders, iron
workers, carpenters, tentmakers, textile producers
Managers: of grain suppliers, of employees, building projects,
armies, finances
Public Servants: in medicine, courts, community, civil rights,
public finance

106. 29
Businesspeople in the Bible
Goods Producers: cattle farmers, vineyard tenders, iron
workers, carpenters, tentmakers, textile producers
Managers: of grain suppliers, of employees, building projects,
armies, finances
Public Servants: in medicine, courts, community, civil rights,
public finance
Artists: musicians, sculptors, seamstresses, dancers, worship
leaders, writers

107. 30
#6 So What?
God Commands Men to Work

108. 30
#6 So What?
A failure to work represents a breach of God’s commandment
God Commands Men to Work

109. 30
#6 So What?
A failure to work represents a breach of God’s commandment
Some of the holiest people in the Bible lived out their faith in the
marketplace - including Jesus
God Commands Men to Work

110. 30
#6 So What?
A failure to work represents a breach of God’s commandment
Some of the holiest people in the Bible lived out their faith in the
marketplace - including Jesus
God can be served as well in the marketplace as at His temple
God Commands Men to Work

111. 30
#6 So What?
A failure to work represents a breach of God’s commandment
Some of the holiest people in the Bible lived out their faith in the
marketplace - including Jesus
God can be served as well in the marketplace as at His temple
Thinking/teaching to the contrary is unbiblical
God Commands Men to Work

112. 30
#6 So What?
A failure to work represents a breach of God’s commandment
Some of the holiest people in the Bible lived out their faith in the
marketplace - including Jesus
God can be served as well in the marketplace as at His temple
Thinking/teaching to the contrary is unbiblical
The command to work does not sanction either underwork or
overwork
God Commands Men to Work

113. 31
Principle 7:
God Commands Men to Work for Him

114. 31
Principle 7:
God Commands Men to Work for Him
“Whatever you do,
do your work heartily,
as for the Lord rather than for men,
knowing that from the Lord
you will receive the reward of the inheritance.
It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” Colossians 3:23-24

115. 31
Principle 7:
God Commands Men to Work for Him
“Whatever you do,
do your work heartily,
as for the Lord rather than for men,
knowing that from the Lord
you will receive the reward of the inheritance.
It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” Colossians 3:23-24
“With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men,
knowing that whatever good thing each one does,
this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.”
Ephesians 6:7-8

116. 32
#7 So What?
God Commands Men to Work for Him

117. 32
#7 So What?
God demands that we work
exclusively for Him, not for any
man, employer, boss, or customer
God Commands Men to Work for Him

118. 32
#7 So What?
God demands that we work
exclusively for Him, not for any
man, employer, boss, or customer
This heart attitude that requires
supernatural power to sustain
God Commands Men to Work for Him

119. 32
#7 So What?
God demands that we work
exclusively for Him, not for any
man, employer, boss, or customer
This heart attitude that requires
supernatural power to sustain
Left to my flesh, I will serve men
and seek their favor, not God’s
God Commands Men to Work for Him

120. 32
#7 So What?
God demands that we work
exclusively for Him, not for any
man, employer, boss, or customer
This heart attitude that requires
supernatural power to sustain
Left to my flesh, I will serve men
and seek their favor, not God’s
Working well demands constant
spiritual power and focus
God Commands Men to Work for Him

121. 33
Principle 8:
God Promotes and Demotes

122. 33
Principle 8:
God Promotes and Demotes
“For not from the east, nor from the west,
Nor from the desert comes exaltation;
But God is the Judge;
He puts down one and exalts another.”
Psalm 75:6-7

123. 34
#8 So What?
God Promotes and Demotes

124. 34
#8 So What?
My efforts to impress or to
manipulate my superiors to
promote me are futile
God Promotes and Demotes

125. 34
#8 So What?
My efforts to impress or to
manipulate my superiors to
promote me are futile
Wrong audience
God Promotes and Demotes

126. 34
#8 So What?
My efforts to impress or to
manipulate my superiors to
promote me are futile
Wrong audience
View promotion, demotion,
layoff, and dismissal as from
God, not man
God Promotes and Demotes

127. 35
Principle 9:
God Gives Us our Abilities, Intelligence,
and Wealth

128. 35
Principle 9:
God Gives Us our Abilities, Intelligence,
and Wealth
“Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,
each of us is to exercise them accordingly...” Romans 12:6

129. 35
Principle 9:
God Gives Us our Abilities, Intelligence,
and Wealth
“Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,
each of us is to exercise them accordingly...” Romans 12:6
“It is He who changes the times and the epochs;
He removes kings and establishes kings;
He gives wisdom to wise men
And knowledge to men of understanding. Daniel 2:21

130. 35
Principle 9:
God Gives Us our Abilities, Intelligence,
and Wealth
“Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,
each of us is to exercise them accordingly...” Romans 12:6
“It is He who changes the times and the epochs;
He removes kings and establishes kings;
He gives wisdom to wise men
And knowledge to men of understanding. Daniel 2:21
“But you shall remember the LORD your God,
for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth...” Deuteronomy 8:18

131. 36
#9 So What?
God Gives Us Our Abilities, Intelligence, and Wealth

132. 36
#9 So What?
No skill, no intelligence, no
brilliance, no wealth that I
have ever originated from me
- all of it is a gift from God
God Gives Us Our Abilities, Intelligence, and Wealth

133. 36
#9 So What?
No skill, no intelligence, no
brilliance, no wealth that I
have ever originated from me
- all of it is a gift from God
The more we have, the greater
our accountability - be content
God Gives Us Our Abilities, Intelligence, and Wealth

134. 36
#9 So What?
No skill, no intelligence, no
brilliance, no wealth that I
have ever originated from me
- all of it is a gift from God
The more we have, the greater
our accountability - be content
Gratitude and humility is the
correct response
God Gives Us Our Abilities, Intelligence, and Wealth

135. 36
#9 So What?
No skill, no intelligence, no
brilliance, no wealth that I
have ever originated from me
- all of it is a gift from God
The more we have, the greater
our accountability - be content
Gratitude and humility is the
correct response
Comparison is foolishness
God Gives Us Our Abilities, Intelligence, and Wealth

136. 37
Principle 10:
God Warns Against Entanglement

137. 37
Principle 10:
God Warns Against Entanglement
“No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of
everyday life, so that he may please
the one who enlisted him as a soldier.”
2 Timothy 2:4

138. 38
#10 So What?
God Warns Against Entanglement

139. 38
#10 So What?
If I’m entangled in my work, I am
not pleasing my Commanding
Officer
God Warns Against Entanglement

140. 38
#10 So What?
If I’m entangled in my work, I am
not pleasing my Commanding
Officer
Am I entangled (imbalanced/
addicted) to my work?
God Warns Against Entanglement

141. 38
#10 So What?
If I’m entangled in my work, I am
not pleasing my Commanding
Officer
Am I entangled (imbalanced/
addicted) to my work?
Do I allow work to interfere with
the depth and quality of important
relationships?
God Warns Against Entanglement

142. 38
#10 So What?
If I’m entangled in my work, I am
not pleasing my Commanding
Officer
Am I entangled (imbalanced/
addicted) to my work?
Do I allow work to interfere with
the depth and quality of important
relationships?
What, if anything, must change in
my work life to allow me to be a
better soldier?
God Warns Against Entanglement

143. 39
Review

144. 39
Review
1. God is a worker

145. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker

146. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall

147. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall
4. God calls work “very good”

148. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall
4. God calls work “very good”
5. God made work an expression of His grace

149. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall
4. God calls work “very good”
5. God made work an expression of His grace
6. God commands men to work

150. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall
4. God calls work “very good”
5. God made work an expression of His grace
6. God commands men to work
7. God commands men to work for Him

151. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall
4. God calls work “very good”
5. God made work an expression of His grace
6. God commands men to work
7. God commands men to work for Him
8. God promotes and demotes

152. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall
4. God calls work “very good”
5. God made work an expression of His grace
6. God commands men to work
7. God commands men to work for Him
8. God promotes and demotes
9. God gives us our abilities, intelligence, and wealth

153. 39
Review
1. God is a worker
2. God created man to be a worker
3. God created work pre-Fall
4. God calls work “very good”
5. God made work an expression of His grace
6. God commands men to work
7. God commands men to work for Him
8. God promotes and demotes
9. God gives us our abilities, intelligence, and wealth
10. God warns against entanglement

154. Part II
Five Advanced Principles

155. 41
1. I Don’t Work to Earn a Living

156. 41
1. I Don’t Work to Earn a Living
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in
glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

157. 41
1. I Don’t Work to Earn a Living
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in
glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
“What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive
it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? ” 1 Corinthians 4:7b

158. 41
1. I Don’t Work to Earn a Living
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in
glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
“What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive
it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? ” 1 Corinthians 4:7b
I must look to God alone for the meeting of my needs

159. 41
1. I Don’t Work to Earn a Living
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in
glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
“What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive
it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? ” 1 Corinthians 4:7b
I must look to God alone for the meeting of my needs
Work may be the vehicle of provision, but not the source

160. 42
Common Objections to
Principle #1

161. 42
Common Objections to
Principle #1
The unwilling to work should not eat

162. 42
Common Objections to
Principle #1
The unwilling to work should not eat
Doesn’t mean that he works in order to eat

163. 42
Common Objections to
Principle #1
The unwilling to work should not eat
Doesn’t mean that he works in order to eat
One-way street, i.e. (1Cor. 6:9,10)

164. 42
Common Objections to
Principle #1
“For even when we were with you,
we used to give you this order:
The unwilling to work should not eat
Doesn’t mean that he works in order to eat
One-way street, i.e. (1Cor. 6:9,10)

165. 42
Common Objections to
Principle #1
“For even when we were with you,
we used to give you this order:
if anyone is not willing to work,
then he is not to eat, either.”
1 Thessalonians 3:10
The unwilling to work should not eat
Doesn’t mean that he works in order to eat
One-way street, i.e. (1Cor. 6:9,10)

166. 43
Common Objections to
Principle #1

167. 43
Common Objections to
Principle #1
Implicit vs. explicit verses on provision

168. 43
Common Objections to
Principle #1
Implicit vs. explicit verses on provision
My responsibility to work and give provision to my family does
not mean that I am the source of my provision

169. 43
Common Objections to
Principle #1
“But if anyone does not provide for his own, and
especially for those of his household,
he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
1Timothy 5:8
Implicit vs. explicit verses on provision
My responsibility to work and give provision to my family does
not mean that I am the source of my provision

170. 44
Failure to Apply Principle #1

171. 44
Failure to Apply Principle #1
Tendency to use and manipulate others to get my needs met

172. 44
Failure to Apply Principle #1
Tendency to use and manipulate others to get my needs met
We cannot use people and serve them at the same time

173. 44
Failure to Apply Principle #1
Tendency to use and manipulate others to get my needs met
We cannot use people and serve them at the same time
Chasing the dollar to establish my standard of living

174. 44
Failure to Apply Principle #1
Tendency to use and manipulate others to get my needs met
We cannot use people and serve them at the same time
Chasing the dollar to establish my standard of living
Tendency to compete with co-workers

175. 44
Failure to Apply Principle #1
Tendency to use and manipulate others to get my needs met
We cannot use people and serve them at the same time
Chasing the dollar to establish my standard of living
Tendency to compete with co-workers
Tendency to compartmentalize “God’s time” versus “my time”

176. 44
Failure to Apply Principle #1
Tendency to use and manipulate others to get my needs met
We cannot use people and serve them at the same time
Chasing the dollar to establish my standard of living
Tendency to compete with co-workers
Tendency to compartmentalize “God’s time” versus “my time”
Tendency to compromise my values to get my needs met

177. 45
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
$2/day

178. 45
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
$2/day

179. 45
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
Derivative of Principle #1
(You don’t work to earn a living) $2/day

180. 45
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
Derivative of Principle #1
(You don’t work to earn a living) $2/day
Hard work may effect potential
for profit, but there is no fixed
cause/effect relationship

181. 45
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
Derivative of Principle #1
(You don’t work to earn a living) $2/day
Hard work may effect potential
for profit, but there is no fixed
cause/effect relationship
Productivity :: Time Invested can
vary dramatically

182. 46
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make

183. 46
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
God may prosper you without your labor:

184. 46
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
God may prosper you without your labor:
“Then it shall come about when the LORD your God brings you into
the land which He swore to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,
to give you,
great and splendid cities which you did not build,
and houses full of all good things which you did not fill,
and hewn cisterns which you did not dig,
vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant,
and you eat and are satisfied” Deuteronomy 6:10-11

185. 47
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
God may prosper you without your labor:

186. 47
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
God may prosper you without your labor:
“It is vain for you to rise up early,
To retire late,
To eat the bread of painful labors;
For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep.”
Psalm 127:2

187. 48
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make

188. 48
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
God may impoverish you with your hard labor:

189. 48
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
God may impoverish you with your hard labor:
“You have sown much, but harvest little;
you eat, but there is not enough to be satisfied;
you drink, but there is not enough to become drunk;
you put on clothing, but no one is warm enough;
and he who earns, earns wages to put into a purse with holes.”

190. 48
2. There Is No Necessary Correlation
Between How Hard I Work and How
Much I Make
God may impoverish you with your hard labor:
“You have sown much, but harvest little;
you eat, but there is not enough to be satisfied;
you drink, but there is not enough to become drunk;
you put on clothing, but no one is warm enough;
and he who earns, earns wages to put into a purse with holes.”
“You look for much, but behold, it comes to little;
when you bring it home, I blow it away. Why?” declares the
LORD of hosts, “Because of My house which lies desolate,
while each of you runs to his own house. Haggai 1:6,9

191. 49
Failure to Apply Principle #2

192. 49
Failure to Apply Principle #2
Inclination to sacrifice priorities when my income is down

193. 49
Failure to Apply Principle #2
Inclination to sacrifice priorities when my income is down
Inclination to allow the marketplace to dictate the level of my
commitment to Christ

194. 49
Failure to Apply Principle #2
Inclination to sacrifice priorities when my income is down
Inclination to allow the marketplace to dictate the level of my
commitment to Christ
Inclination to integrate my faith into the marketplace only when
the environment is friendly

195. 49
Failure to Apply Principle #2
Inclination to sacrifice priorities when my income is down
Inclination to allow the marketplace to dictate the level of my
commitment to Christ
Inclination to integrate my faith into the marketplace only when
the environment is friendly
Inclination to attempt to out-earn my needs

196. 50
Summary of Principles #1 & 2

197. 50
Summary of Principles #1 & 2
My labors are not the source of my provision or my prosperity

198. 50
Summary of Principles #1 & 2
My labors are not the source of my provision or my prosperity
God is my Provider; I need not fear

199. 51
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work

200. 51
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief,
in which the heavens will pass away with a roar
and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat,
and the earth and its works will be burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10

201. 51
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief,
in which the heavens will pass away with a roar
and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat,
and the earth and its works will be burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10
God will burn all work, including some of His own

202. 51
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief,
in which the heavens will pass away with a roar
and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat,
and the earth and its works will be burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10
God will burn all work, including some of His own
God may assign value to what I produce,
but it has no intrinsic value

203. 52

204. 52

205. 53
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work

206. 53
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
The product of work may have utilitarian value, but no intrinsic
value

207. 53
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
The product of work may have utilitarian value, but no intrinsic
value
The process of work has value because God uses it to
determine reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 3:14-15)

208. 53
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
The product of work may have utilitarian value, but no intrinsic
value
The process of work has value because God uses it to
determine reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 3:14-15)
Its not the fruit of our labor, but the focus of our heart that
gives value to work

209. 53
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
The product of work may have utilitarian value, but no intrinsic
value
The process of work has value because God uses it to
determine reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 3:14-15)
Its not the fruit of our labor, but the focus of our heart that
gives value to work
“Secular” work becomes spiritual when it is done to please God

210. 53
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
The product of work may have utilitarian value, but no intrinsic
value
The process of work has value because God uses it to
determine reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 3:14-15)
Its not the fruit of our labor, but the focus of our heart that
gives value to work
“Secular” work becomes spiritual when it is done to please God
“Religious” work becomes secular when it is done to please and
impress people

211. 53
3. There Is No Intrinsic Value in the
Product of My Work
The product of work may have utilitarian value, but no intrinsic
value
The process of work has value because God uses it to
determine reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 3:14-15)
Its not the fruit of our labor, but the focus of our heart that
gives value to work
“Secular” work becomes spiritual when it is done to please God
“Religious” work becomes secular when it is done to please and
impress people

212. 54
Failure to Apply Principle #3

213. 54
Failure to Apply Principle #3
Tendency to take my work too seriously, sacrificing important
relationships for the sake of work

214. 54
Failure to Apply Principle #3
Tendency to take my work too seriously, sacrificing important
relationships for the sake of work
Tendency to labor for the temporal, rather than the eternal

215. 54
Failure to Apply Principle #3
Tendency to take my work too seriously, sacrificing important
relationships for the sake of work
Tendency to labor for the temporal, rather than the eternal
Suffering loss of reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 3:10-15)

216. 54
Failure to Apply Principle #3
Tendency to take my work too seriously, sacrificing important
relationships for the sake of work
Tendency to labor for the temporal, rather than the eternal
Suffering loss of reward in heaven (1 Corinthians 3:10-15)
Tendency to perceive greatness primarily in terms of my
achievements or accomplishments

217. 55
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do

218. 55
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
Significance and self-esteem are only found in a relationship
with God

219. 55
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
Significance and self-esteem are only found in a relationship
with God
“Thus says the LORD, “Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and
let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of
his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands
and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness,
justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,”
declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 9:23-24

220. 56
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do

221. 56
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
Deriving significance from my giftedness, education,
profession, wealth, or power are credentials Paul calls
“rubbish” or “dung”

222. 56
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
Deriving significance from my giftedness, education,
profession, wealth, or power are credentials Paul calls
“rubbish” or “dung”
“I count all things to be loss
in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord,
for whom I have suffered the loss of all things,
and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ...”
Philippians 3:8

223. 57

224. 58
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do

225. 58
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
God’s children are significant solely
because:

226. 58
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
God’s children are significant solely
because:
They are created in His image

227. 58
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
God’s children are significant solely
because:
They are created in His image
He declares them to be of eternal worth

228. 58
4. Significance Is Not Found
in the Kind of Work I Do
God’s children are significant solely
because:
They are created in His image
He declares them to be of eternal worth
There are no other biblical grounds for
self-esteem

229. 59
Failure to Apply Principle #4

230. 59
Failure to Apply Principle #4
I will confuse my identity in Christ with my vocation

231. 59
Failure to Apply Principle #4
I will confuse my identity in Christ with my vocation
Job loss or demotion will send me into bitterness/anger/depression

232. 59
Failure to Apply Principle #4
I will confuse my identity in Christ with my vocation
Job loss or demotion will send me into bitterness/anger/depression
The focus of my work will tend to be selfish ambition to bolster
my sense of significance

233. 59
Failure to Apply Principle #4
I will confuse my identity in Christ with my vocation
Job loss or demotion will send me into bitterness/anger/depression
The focus of my work will tend to be selfish ambition to bolster
my sense of significance
I will swing to the opposite extreme and become consumed by my
work

234. 59
Failure to Apply Principle #4
I will confuse my identity in Christ with my vocation
Job loss or demotion will send me into bitterness/anger/depression
The focus of my work will tend to be selfish ambition to bolster
my sense of significance
I will swing to the opposite extreme and become consumed by my
work
Seeking significance anywhere other than in God’s declaration
is an affront to God

235. 60
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God

236. 60
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
God’s work was finished before the foundations of the earth:

237. 60
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
God’s work was finished before the foundations of the earth:
“... although His works were finished from the foundation of the world.”
Hebrews 4:3b

238. 61
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God

239. 61
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God

240. 61
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
God is self-sufficient

241. 61
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
God is self-sufficient
“Remember the former things long past,
For I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is no one like Me,
Declaring the end from the beginning,
And from ancient times things which have not been done,
Saying, ‘My purpose will be established,
And I will accomplish all My good pleasure” Isaiah 46:9-10

242. 62

243. 62
“I will build My church;
and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.”
Matthew 16:18b

244. 63
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God

245. 63
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
I can participate in the work of God, but I can contribute
nothing

246. 63
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
I can participate in the work of God, but I can contribute
nothing
“Contribute:” to give, furnish, supply something of worth

247. 63
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
I can participate in the work of God, but I can contribute
nothing
“Contribute:” to give, furnish, supply something of worth
“Participate:” to take a part or a share of something

248. 63
5. I Can Contribute Nothing
to the Work of God
I can participate in the work of God, but I can contribute
nothing
“Contribute:” to give, furnish, supply something of worth
“Participate:” to take a part or a share of something
Connotation of privilege

249. 64
Participation in the Work of God

250. 64
Participation in the Work of God
And who knows whether you have not attained royalty
for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14b

251. 64
Participation in the Work of God
And who knows whether you have not attained royalty
for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14b
I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth.
According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise
master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But
each man must be careful how he builds on it.” 1 Corinthians 3:6,10

252. 65
Failure to Apply Principle #5

253. 65
Failure to Apply Principle #5
Inclination to use people to build my organization “for God”

254. 65
Failure to Apply Principle #5
Inclination to use people to build my organization “for God”
Tendency to run over people

255. 65
Failure to Apply Principle #5
Inclination to use people to build my organization “for God”
Tendency to run over people
Tendency to compete for the limited resources of men and money

256. 65
Failure to Apply Principle #5
Inclination to use people to build my organization “for God”
Tendency to run over people
Tendency to compete for the limited resources of men and money
Inclination to compromise God’s commandments to
accomplish my goals to “build God’s kingdom”

257. 66
The True Value of Work

258. 66
The True Value of Work
Work embeds us in a natural environment in which we can
exhibit kingdom values and hope in a temporal arena

259. 66
The True Value of Work
Work embeds us in a natural environment in which we can
exhibit kingdom values and hope in a temporal arena
Work provides a context in which we can represent Jesus to
the lost by:

260. 66
The True Value of Work
Work embeds us in a natural environment in which we can
exhibit kingdom values and hope in a temporal arena
Work provides a context in which we can represent Jesus to
the lost by:
Building relationships

261. 66
The True Value of Work
Work embeds us in a natural environment in which we can
exhibit kingdom values and hope in a temporal arena
Work provides a context in which we can represent Jesus to
the lost by:
Building relationships
Demonstrating character, conviction, and integrity

262. 66
The True Value of Work
Work embeds us in a natural environment in which we can
exhibit kingdom values and hope in a temporal arena
Work provides a context in which we can represent Jesus to
the lost by:
Building relationships
Demonstrating character, conviction, and integrity
Doing our work with care and quality

263. 67
Review

264. 67
Review
I don’t work to earn a living

265. 67
Review
I don’t work to earn a living
There is no necessary correlation between how hard I work
and how much I make

266. 67
Review
I don’t work to earn a living
There is no necessary correlation between how hard I work
and how much I make
There is no intrinsic value in the product of my work

267. 67
Review
I don’t work to earn a living
There is no necessary correlation between how hard I work
and how much I make
There is no intrinsic value in the product of my work
Significance is not found in the kind of work I do

268. 67
Review
I don’t work to earn a living
There is no necessary correlation between how hard I work
and how much I make
There is no intrinsic value in the product of my work
Significance is not found in the kind of work I do
I can contribute nothing to the work of God

269. 67
Review
I don’t work to earn a living
There is no necessary correlation between how hard I work
and how much I make
There is no intrinsic value in the product of my work
Significance is not found in the kind of work I do
I can contribute nothing to the work of God
The marketplace is the arena where I demonstrate my eternal
hope to a lost and dying world

270. 68
The End

271. KENBOA.ORG
KenBoa.org
ken_boa
Kenneth Boa