SERMON NOTES (May 22 2016): Jesus on the Job- Eph 6:5-9

Jesus on the Job

Eph 6:5-9

Intro. Graduation stats

Brief History of American Labor Issues

Ancient divisions of civilizations and labor- American history

I.                   Christian Work Ought to be From the Heart

God’s Will at Work – “doing the will of God”

A.    Sincere Obedience (vs. 5)

“Sincerity of heart” – as to Christ

B.     Passionate Service (vs. 6)

“from the heart” – as slaves of Christ

II.                Christian Work Ought to be Better Quality

Good Will at Work – eu-noia good mind cf. 1Co 7:3 The husband must ^[a]fulfill his duty to his wife, and likewise also the wife to her husband.

A.    Toward (vs. 7)

Directional – to the Lord

B.     Reward (vs. 8)

Motivational – back from the Lord

Theology of Good Works after salvation: do them; they’ve been pre-pared. Don’t just sit around and wait for a second word from the Lord when He’s already given you the first Word and you’ve not yet obeyed. Reward is good, desirable, motivational, godly.

III.             Christian Work Ought to be Middle-Managed

God Will Work

A.    Higher Level Management (vs. 9)

“give up threatening”

Motivation scale: Management Theory

Physical Pain Force-> Psychological Fear-> Community Shame-> Tangible Reward-> Higher Purpose/Community-> Pure Joy

B.     Heavenly Management (vs. 9)

“Their Master and yours”