Articles
Evangelism in the Workplace
Each week holds a fast-paced 168 hours of time. Assuming a healthy sleep schedule is in place, about 50 hours of that is spent in slumber. Therefore, our time spent awake and active is approximately 118 hours. Breaking that figure down a little further, we spend, on average, 50% of that time in the workplace and in commute and the other 50% of that time at our own discretion.
Breaking down the numbers reveals a surprising and somewhat harsh truth – much of our time is spent in laborious activity, that is, at work. That can be a hard pill to swallow; nevertheless, the world keeps on turning and the material needs of our families are ever present. So we work. And we work. And we work. We spend hours and hours devoted to our skill, to our career, to our passion. This is necessary, but the manner in which we engage in that work is worthy of note. How do we work is the question. Do we work with passion and fervor? Do we work with a “good Christian work ethic”? Do people see a difference in us as employees? As coworkers?
How we work is an interesting question. We do after all spend countless hours “on the clock.” Do we use that time efficiently and as an opportunity to be a light? (Matt. 5:16) Have you ever wondered how Priscilla and Aquila were converted? In Acts 18, we see that they worked in the same craft as Paul – tent making. In those long shifts at their work, Paul, no doubt, shared the gospel with them and they became instrumental in the cause of Christ.
Never underestimate the value of “a good Christian work ethic.” It is an invaluable tool by which we can bring the gospel into others’ lives. “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus…in all things obey those who are your lords on earth, not with external service, as those who merely please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. 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.” (Col. 3:17ff) “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” (Eccl. 9:10)
