The document discusses the significance of work from a biblical perspective, emphasizing that work is not inherently bad but often misunderstood. It outlines key points: work is necessary for achieving goals, it is commanded by God, expected by communities, and ultimately rewarded. The author argues that both earthly and spiritual work are essential for fulfillment and eternal life.

1. Work… … is not a dirty word Paul Spurlin

2. Interesting… Adam and Eve were commanded to work in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15). The work was not what caused disappointment and unhappiness, It was disobedience!

3. Why Do People See Work as a Bad Thing? Sometimes we have to do things we don’t want to do. Sometimes we have to work when we’d rather be doing other things. Sometimes we don’t see the rewards for our work. Sometimes work can become repetitive. It could also be because we are lazy!

4. How Does God View Work? “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” (First Timothy 5:8).

5. Remember… Doing work for an earthly pursuit helps us understand the work that must be done to inherit eternal life. No one of accountable age goes to heaven without working towards it!

6. 1. Work Must be Done to Accomplish a Goal. What if Noah had decided to be lazy? What if he thought, “God can perform miracles; He’ll just build this thing Himself”? What if he had decided to work on the ark in his own way? The ark took a tremendous amount of persistent work!

7. 2. Work is Commanded First Timothy 5:8 Titus 3:1, “be ready for every good work” (preparation is work!) Think of the parables of Jesus. We often see those ready for the return of the Master because they are working!

8. 3. Work is Expected We expect God to work; should He not expect the same of us? Others very often expect us to work (families, teachers, coaches, etc.). There are certain things that we should expect of ourselves! (Bible study, prayer, kindness)

9. 4. Work is Rewarded Money, promotions, bonuses Grades, certificates, diplomas, degrees Extra privileges Hugs, handshakes, admiration God’s approval! (First Corinthians 15:58) Heaven