What’s Best Next – Session 4: Does God Care about Getting Things Done

Summary

The script explores whether productivity is a Christian value, addressing the tension between passion and practical systems. It references biblical teachings, such as the parable of the talents and Ephesians 5, to affirm that God does value productivity. The text emphasizes that Christians are called to manage their time and resources wisely, using personal leadership and management, much like the ant in Proverbs 6. While the methods for productivity may align with secular practices, the motives and foundation for Christian productivity are rooted in glorifying God and serving His kingdom.

Takeaways

• 📈 Jesus values productivity, as seen in the parable of the talents, where servants are praised for using their talents to create more.
• 🌍 The creation mandate emphasizes being fruitful and productive, filling the earth and subduing it as humanity’s mission.
• 🛠️ Passion and productivity are not opposed; both are essential. Passion helps prioritize, while productivity systems provide structure.
• ⏳ Ephesians 5:15-17 highlights time management as an essential element of wisdom, encouraging believers to make the best use of time.
• 🐜 Proverbs 6 encourages wisdom through the example of the ant, which exemplifies personal leadership and personal management without external direction.
• 📚 Christians can learn from secular productivity methods because all truth is God’s truth, and wisdom can come from various sources.
• ❤️ The gospel transforms productivity by changing our motives, focusing on serving God and others rather than seeking self-gain or approval.
• 🙏 Christian productivity draws on God's power, acknowledging that we work out of acceptance in Christ, not to earn it.
• 🩺 Secular and Christian professionals may use similar methods, but the Christian approach is distinguished by a deeper motivation to honor God.
• 🏆 True productivity is ultimately determined by what God will approve of at the final judgment, with lasting impact and eternal value.

Q & A

What is the author's view on the relationship between productivity and Christianity?

The author argues that productivity is not inherently un-Christian. They suggest that Christians should not shy away from productivity systems and methods, as they can be used to serve God and fulfill His purposes.

How does the author interpret the parable of the talents in relation to productivity?

The author sees the parable of the talents as Jesus demanding a return on our lives, which is a form of productivity. The servant who multiplies the talents is commended, indicating that using what God has given us to produce more is a Christian value.

What does the author believe are the two components of personal productivity?

The author identifies personal leadership and personal management as the two components of personal productivity. Personal leadership involves knowing what to do, while personal management is about doing it efficiently.

How does Ephesians 5:15-17 relate to time management and productivity according to the author?

The author interprets Ephesians 5:15-17 as a New Testament text on time management, suggesting that making the most of time is paralleled with walking wisely, which is a principle for Christian living.

What does the author suggest about the use of secular productivity resources by Christians?

The author encourages Christians to learn from secular productivity authors and business thinkers, as all truth is God's truth, and there is much to learn from non-Christian perspectives.

What is the author's stance on the necessity of Christians learning about productivity methods?

The author affirms that Christians should learn about productivity methods and strategies, as they are part of living wisely and managing our lives in a way that pleases God.

How does the author relate the concept of wisdom in the Old Testament to productivity?

The author connects the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, such as Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Psalms, with the concept of productivity, suggesting that wisdom includes managing oneself well.

What is the author's view on the role of passion in productivity?

The author acknowledges the importance of passion as a prioritizer, but also emphasizes the need for good workflow systems and methodology to channel that passion effectively.

How does the author suggest Christians should approach their work and productivity?

The author suggests that Christians should approach their work and productivity with the motive of serving God and others, and with the foundation of relying on God for power to do all that they do.

What is the new definition of productivity that the author proposes based on the scriptural references?

The new definition of productivity proposed by the author is that productive actions are those which God will approve at the final judgment, and which have eternal benefits.

How does the author differentiate between the methods and motives of Christian and non-Christian productivity?

The author differentiates by stating that while methods like workflow systems might be the same, the motives and foundations differ. Christians are motivated by love for God and already having His acceptance, not by a desire to gain it.