Topical Bible: Employee: General Scriptures Concerning

◄ Employee: General Scriptures Concerning ►

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The concept of an employee, while not explicitly named in ancient biblical texts, is addressed through various scriptures that discuss the relationship between workers and their employers, the ethics of labor, and the responsibilities of both parties. The Bible provides guidance on how employees should conduct themselves and how employers should treat their workers, emphasizing principles of fairness, diligence, and respect.

Diligence and Hard Work

The Bible frequently underscores the importance of diligence and hard work. Proverbs 12:24 states, "The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." This verse highlights the value of industriousness and the potential for advancement that comes with it. Similarly, Colossians 3:23 encourages employees to work wholeheartedly: "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men."

Honesty and Integrity

Employees are called to exhibit honesty and integrity in their work. Proverbs 11:1 declares, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This principle extends to all forms of work, urging employees to maintain ethical standards. Ephesians 4:28 further advises, "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need."

Respect and Obedience

The Bible instructs employees to respect and obey their employers, as seen in Ephesians 6:5-7: "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men." While the term "slaves" is used in the historical context, the principle applies to modern employee-employer relationships, emphasizing respect and sincere service.

Fair Treatment by Employers

Scripture also addresses the responsibilities of employers toward their employees. Colossians 4:1 advises, "Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven." This verse calls for fairness and justice in the treatment of workers, recognizing the ultimate authority of God over all.

Rest and Sabbath

The Bible acknowledges the need for rest and the observance of the Sabbath, which applies to both employers and employees. Exodus 20:9-10 commands, "Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work." This principle ensures that employees receive necessary rest and spiritual rejuvenation.

Contentment and Trust in God

Employees are encouraged to find contentment in their work and trust in God's provision. Philippians 4:11-12 teaches, "I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound." Trusting in God's provision allows employees to focus on their duties without undue anxiety about material needs.

These scriptures collectively provide a framework for understanding the biblical perspective on employees, emphasizing diligence, integrity, respect, fair treatment, rest, and contentment.

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Leviticus 19:13
You shall not defraud your neighbor, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with you all night until the morning.
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Leviticus 25:6
And the sabbath of the land shall be meat for you; for you, and for your servant, and for your maid, and for your hired servant, and for your stranger that sojournes with you.
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Deuteronomy 15:18
It shall not seem hard to you, when you send him away free from you; for he has been worth a double hired servant to you, in serving you six years: and the LORD your God shall bless you in all that you do.
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Deuteronomy 24:14,15
You shall not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of your brothers, or of your strangers that are in your land within your gates:
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Matthew 10:10
Nor money for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.
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Luke 10:7
And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.
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Romans 4:4
Now to him that works is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.
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1 Timothy 5:18
For the scripture said, You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his reward.
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Library

After the War.
... ignorant, or merely sentimental expositions of the Scriptures. ... The employee was only
a "hand," and there was ... has been relieved by the general introduction of ...
/.../bacon/a history of american christianity/chapter xx after the war.htm