Work, and redemption

Although human activity cannot merit eternal redemption, work done in this life may, with God's enabling, substantially reflect the divine ideal, in anticipation of the perfect service of heaven.

Human work cannot merit redemption

Ephesians 2:8–9; 2 Timothy 1:9; Titus 3:4–5

Jesus Christ's finished work secures redemption

John 17:4 See also John 4:34, John 19:30; Hebrews 9:12

I have glorified You on earth by accomplishing the work You gave Me to do.

Faith leads believers to perform good works

James 2:14 See also Matthew 7:16–20, Matthew 12:33; Luke 3:8–9; Romans 2:13; Hebrews 6:10–12; James 2:17–26

What good is it, my brothers, if someone claims to have faith, but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?

Redeemed workers fulfil God's purpose in work

By applying biblical virtues in employment

Proverbs 10:4, Proverbs 14:23; Galatians 6:9; Colossians 4:1

By the pursuit of excellence

Ecclesiastes 9:10; Titus 2:7–8, Titus 3:8; 1 Peter 2:12, 1 Peter 2:15

By doing their work as those responsible to God

Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 7:24, 1 Corinthians 10:31; Ephesians 6:7; Colossians 3:23

Work done, as for the Lord, will be rewarded by the Lord

Colossians 3:23–24 See also 2 Chronicles 31:21; Matthew 25:21; 1 Corinthians 15:58

Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Work will continue in the life to come

Revelation 22:3 See also Matthew 25:21, Matthew 25:23; Luke 19:17, Luke 19:19

No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be within the city, and His servants will worship Him.