Journal: Westminster Theological Journal
Volume: WTJ 85:1 (Spring 2023)
Article: Work In Christ: Toward A Covenant Theology Of Work
Author: Christopher Colquitt

WTJ 85:1 (Spring 2023) p. 87

Work In Christ: Toward A Covenant Theology Of Work

Christopher Colquitt

Christopher Colquitt is senior pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville, VA.

I. Introduction

If Reformed theology is covenant theology, then Reformed practical theology ought to be fundamentally covenantal.1 Both in our theoretical and pastoral approach to the Christian life, covenant theology provides an invaluable lens that “contextualize[s] and orient[s]” our understanding of the human.2 We were created in covenant relationship with God, and that covenant relationship has seen significant development over the course of redemptive history. Understanding our covenantal context is crucial to understanding the Christian life. And yet, in certain areas of pastoral theology, the distinctives of covenant theology are absent or relegated to the distant background.

This dynamic is on display in contemporary discussions of the relationship between a Christian’s faith and his daily work. Recent years have seen a renewed interest in faith and work topics, both in the liberal mainline and in conservative evangelicalism.3 Historically, this movement has been lay-driven and ecumenical in tone, arising largely outside of the structures of the institutional church,

WTJ 85:1 (Spring 2023) p. 88

and in reaction to the church’s relative silence on such matters.4 Substantively, it is not uniform in its message or confessional identity, but rather draws on an eclectic array of theological traditions to address the eminently practical issues surrounding how a Christian’s faith affects his life at work.5

Though initially lay-driven, churches and pastors, especially in conservative evangelical and Reformed churches, are increasingly paying attention to this important topic and providing leadership in its development. This trend is particularly evident among churches in urban centers that seek to reach cultural elites in professional and creative vocations.6 Following the model of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, these churches recognize that issues of faith and work provide important opportunities for evangelism, discipleship, and cultural renewal by speaking powerfully to the practical experiences and needs of their people.7

There is much to be celebrated in this renaissance and the re...