What does the Bible say about labor?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that labor is a God-given calling, now marked by toil because of sin, and that work should be done diligently, justly, and with reverence for God. Genesis 3:19 shows the hardship of labor in a fallen world, while Exodus 20:9-11 and 23:12 command both faithful work and regular rest in imitation of the Creator. God requires employers to deal honestly with workers, paying wages promptly and refusing oppression, as Leviticus 19:13, Deuteronomy 24:14-15, and Jeremiah 22:13 emphasize. Even animals are to be treated fairly in their labor (Deuteronomy 25:4). Ecclesiastes 5:12 commends the ordinary contentment of honest work.
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- General scriptures concerning Genesis 3:19; Exodus 20:9-11; Exodus 23:12; Exodus 34:21; Leviticus 19:13; Deuteronomy 24:14; Deuteronomy 24:15; Deuteronomy 25:4; Ecclesiastes 5:12; Jeremiah 22:13; Malachi 3:5; Matthew 20:1-15
- See EMPLOYEE
- See EMPLOYER
- See IDLENESS
- See INDUSTRY
- See MASTER
- See SERVANT
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