Discovering Our Purpose

1
Discovering Our Purpose

• Let him who steals steal no longer but rather
  let him labor, performing with his own hands what
  is good, in order that he may have something to
  share with him who has need (Eph. 428)

2
Let him who steals steal no longer

• Blatantly taking what belongs to another
• Using false measures or accounting figures
• Misrepresenting somethings value
• Failing to provide an honest days work
• Gambling (stealing by mutual consent)
• Neglecting to pay debts
• Abusing public treasuries or businesses

3
but rather let him labor, performing with his
own hands what is good

• The Bible teaches a work ethic.
• We are taught to work (1 Thes. 411-12 2 Thes.
  310-12)
• We are taught to accept responsibility for our
  families (1Tim. 56)
• Work what is good.

4
..that he may have something to share with him
who has need

• Jas. 127
• Gal. 610.
• This sharing is a sacrifice that pleases God
  (Heb. 1315-16)

5
We live in the world where it is commonly
believed that all people are to some degree
dishonest in their financial dealings. The
Christian who lives in total integrity will shine
as a light in this dark world.