Christians are commanded to fulfil the “great commission,” to “spread the good news, to “display the love of Christ” wherever they go. That includes their work place. So, it’s not unusual to find an article about how to do that.
Like Samantha, most of us are likely familiar with Jesus’ Great Commission He extended to His disciples just before returning to heaven.
“And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:18-29, ESV).
For centuries, these verses have served as the “marching orders” for countless missions organizations and faithful followers of Jesus concerned with taking the fame of Jesus to the ends of the earth. While these certainly are “tall orders” calling us to a daunting task, it is important to remember that these commands are not intended to be followed only by a select group of “Special Forces,” Super Christians but, rather, all Christians, everywhere, at all times — even normal Christians like you, me and Samantha. It is also important to remember that many of the people to whom we are to “go” live, play and work around us in our own homes, neighborhoods, gyms, coffee shops and our workplaces.
The author then includes seven tips to help fulfil the great commission.
1. Believe that God wants to save your co-workers.
But what if the co-worker doesn’t want to get saved? What if they already practice another religion? What if they consider themselves a Christian, but aren’t your brand of religion? So many questions.
2. Be a good employee.
Well, duh. Shouldn’t everyone be a good employee? That’s just common sense and has nothing to do with religion.
3. Think like a missionary.
Well, this is just rude. So, am I to assume the people needing “saving” are heathens, don’t already have a rich culture, the saver should import a buncha bras and suits to make the savee respectable, then decimate their way of living so they’re just like American Christians? Woah. That’s harsh.
4. Fill in the gaps.
What gaps? I don’t get this one. Perhaps I should read the explanation carefully.
One of the best ways to “put feet on” the previous suggestion is to begin to seek to redeem some of the “down time” at work. No matter how busy we become, everyone has to take a break for coffee or for lunch at some point. These “breaks in the action” are wonderful opportunities to begin to build relationships and eventually engage in conversations that point people toward Christ. And they are already built into the natural workday!
Two things can help here. First, pay attention to who goes where and at what times. Not in a creepy way, of course, but in a “part of the reason I’m here is to be a missionary” way. Second, pray that God would give you opportunities, boldness and favor to share with these co-workers he has placed in your path.
I get it. Stalk your fellow workers and hit ’em with the gospel during spare moments. Yup. Not creepy. Plus it’ll ensure you’ll be the most popular person in the office.
5. Put the Gospel to work for you.
No. You’re at work. You work. Do your job. See point #2.
6. Don’t forget to actually share the Gospel.
Sigh. I hate when people preach at me. I can probably assume I’m not the only person who goes to work to… well… work, not get targeted by the resident Christian. Ugh.
7. Trust God with the results.
If only. If only the resident preacher could say their piece, get it over with, then drop the subject to “trust god.” But nope, usually the subject comes up in every. single. conversation. Never stops.
Thanks again, Focus on the Family, for creating a potentially uncomfortable work place. Makes daily life so pleasant.
