Titus 2:9-10

The idea of slavery is so appalling that it is hard for us to imagine what it would be like to live in a world where it was normal.

However, in the Roman Empire, it was an accepted part of everyday life. In this passage, Paul is not attempting to dismantle or even challenge the system of slavery, but instead seems concerned that Christian slaves ensured their lifestyle commended the good news. Most slave owners at the time would have known nothing of the Christian faith, so the best opportunity for them to learn about it would be through the slaves who had already converted. Their good conduct and reliability would convey an important message, and show the attractiveness of the gospel.

Times have, thankfully, changed but Paul’s advice is no less relevant in today’s modern workplace. Most people, and therefore most employers, do not attend church and have little or no idea about the Christian message. Therefore, the most effective way of communicating with them is through the lives of Christians who work with them. In the workplace, there are constant pressures and challenges - and the way in which
Christians handle these situations will communicate more than any sermon could. When people are stressed and tempers frayed, the patience, grace and peace of a Christian worker can be incredibly powerful.

If the workplace is where many people get their best opportunity to see Christianity in action, we need to give strong support to one another as we
go to work. It won’t always be easy to live for Christ in organisations which are often focused on making a profit. But if that is where God has called us to serve him, we need to be well equipped and supported. Church leaders need to ensure sermons and services equip people to live out their faith at work. And we all need to encourage one another so that we will live up to those high standards which Paul set so long ago.


QUESTION
How could we better encourage people at work to live out their Christian lives?

PRAYER
Loving God, help me always to give my best in everything I do, so that other people may be drawn towards you. Amen

Released on 11 Jul 2023