How should Christians perceive their employers at work?

1. Understanding Work as Part of God’s Design

Work was present before the fall, as seen in Genesis 2:15, where humanity is placed in the garden “to cultivate it and keep it.” This design indicates that labor brings purpose and structure to life. Employers, as leaders in the workplace, can be understood as individuals entrusted with the management of an organization’s vision and resources. Thus, recognizing them in a position of responsibility is part of honoring the created order of stewardship.

2. Scriptural Guidance on Honoring Employers

Throughout Scripture, Christians are instructed to show respect and sincerity in work relationships. In Ephesians 6:5–7, we read:

“Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. And do this not only while being watched, in order to please men, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men.”

While the immediate context mentions slaves and masters, the principle applies to modern employees and employers. The Apostle Paul’s teaching reminds believers that all legitimate authority is ultimately under God’s sovereignty, and serving faithfully at work demonstrates reverence toward God.

Similarly, Colossians 3:22–24 underscores diligence and sincerity: “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything—not only to please them while they are watching—but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward.”

The focus is on working wholeheartedly, regardless of human oversight, because service in the workplace can be an act of worship to God.

3. Historical Context and Early Christian Perspectives

In the Roman Empire, those under a master’s authority often had limited rights and faced harsh conditions. When the early believers read passages instructing them to respect those in authority (cf. 1 Peter 2:18–19), it carried profound weight. Their counter-cultural example of honoring their masters—while also holding fast to Christian conduct—became a powerful testimony. Extra-biblical writings, such as the early Christian apologies addressed to Roman officials, likewise emphasize believers’ integrity and diligence in daily life.

In modern work environments, while conditions differ significantly, the timeless principle remains: respect for one’s employer not only fosters a respectful atmosphere but also testifies to the transforming work of Christ in the believer’s heart.

4. Theological Motivation: Serving Christ First

Christians recognize that all authority ultimately flows from God’s sovereign hand (Romans 13:1). By honoring employers, believers acknowledge God’s order. Yet allegiance to God supersedes all others when moral or ethical conflicts arise (Acts 5:29). As long as demands from employers do not contradict God’s commands, believers should serve faithfully, thereby displaying the integrity and attitude of Jesus, who “came not to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45).

Furthermore, in 1 Timothy 6:1–2, Paul advises those under any “yoke of slavery” to consider their masters “fully worthy of honor,” ensuring that “God’s name and our teaching will not be discredited.” This teaching translates into modern settings by calling Christians to represent Christ well in the workplace.

5. Practical Ways to Honor Employers

1. Respectful Communication: Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Speaking with kindness and clarity promotes a peaceful environment.

2. Diligent Work Ethic: Believers should strive for excellence, as if working “for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians 3:23). Consistently meeting or exceeding responsibilities builds trust and respect.

3. Uphold Integrity: Refuse dishonest shortcuts or unethical practices. Choose honesty, even when pressured otherwise, mirroring Titus 2:7–8, which advocates demonstrating integrity in all matters.

4. Pray for Employers: Praying for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1–2) guides believers to cultivate compassion and concern for their employers’ well-being and decision-making.

5. Seek the Employer’s Good: Work for the overall success of the organization. As Jeremiah 29:7 reminds exiles in Babylon to “seek the prosperity of the city,” so also employees can contribute positively, reflecting the desire for the broader welfare of those they serve under.

6. Balancing Submission and Moral Conviction

Respecting an employer does not require blind obedience to unethical mandates. If a superior demands something contrary to God’s Word, Acts 5:29 states, “We must obey God rather than men.” At times, moral courage is essential, and believers must stand firmly in biblical truth. Balancing submission with uncompromising faith honors God above all.

Historical narratives (e.g., from the second-century Apologists) show how early Christians refused to comply with commands that would contravene their faith, even under threat of punishment. This same resolve applies today when ethical lines are crossed.

7. Fostering a Spirit of Unity at Work

Colossians 4:1 instructs employers to grant justice and fairness, recognizing they, too, have a Master in heaven. While this addresses employers, it implies that Christian employees and employers should support one another in unity. By exhibiting a gracious spirit, Christians foster a workplace environment that reflects the principles of love and justice so often highlighted throughout Scripture.

8. Conclusion

A Christian’s perception of an employer is fundamentally an outworking of faith in God’s sovereign plan. Recognizing employers as part of the organizational order entrusted with leadership allows believers to extend respect, service, and prayerful support. While doing so, one must remember that all genuine work is ultimately rendered unto God. Balancing respectful submission with firm adherence to biblical ethics ensures that believers glorify the Lord in their vocational responsibilities, becoming salt and light in their workplaces (Matthew 5:13–16).