“CHRISTLIKENESS AT WORK”

“Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.”

Ephesians 4:28

“CHRISTLIKENESS AT WORK”

Everywhere you go, stealing is universally regarded as a violation of the law. Depending on the degree—whether it’s larceny, identity theft, grand theft, heist, robbery, fraud, or carjacking—has corresponding consequences. For example, petty theft is considered a felony in Turkey, and depending on the circumstances, a thief could end up in jail for up to 20 years, in addition to labor or hefty fines. In France, petty theft can cost as much as 45,000 Euros and up to 3 years of imprisonment. (Source: Punishment for Petty Theft Around the World by Daniel Jones)

The truth is that, even without these laws that govern theft, every person, deep in his heart, knows that stealing is wrong; it is a violation and deserving of punishment.

As we continue our study on this passage in Ephesians 4, we learn that Paul is telling the believers in the large city of Ephesus that part of declining to give the Devil a foothold is to avoid stealing. Being a populous city (about 200,000), Ephesus was likely to have experienced stealing, mainly from slaves and those who could not support themselves.

Paul may be commanding them to stop stealing and earn honest money. Perhaps among the Ephesian believers were previously thieves. Rather, they should find a job and work hard. The purpose is not just to provide for themselves or their families but also to help those in need. This sets the bar for Christian productivity. What is Paul teaching us today? I'd like to share a few insights on this matter.

First, we should not be a burden to anyone (mainly those of age and able to work) and earn a living. In so doing, we are reminded to be honest in our dealings—whether we’re managing a business or making money through employment—we must treat our source of income honestly. This reminds me of Paul’s admonition, to tell the truth to one another because we belong to one body.

Second, being productive provides for our personal needs and allows us to do something useful with our hands. God has uniquely blessed us with gifts and talents to be a blessing to others and bring glory to His name.

Last, we can’t afford to be lazy (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Being unproductive is a character unbecoming of a Christian and is detestable to God. We don’t want to be a burden to others. God saved us not only to escape His judgment but also to do good works.

If God blessed you with a livelihood, let me encourage you to do your work with all honesty. Let’s not just work to keep our jobs and impress our bosses, but because we love God and His people. 

Pursue the Saviour today!