Every Good Endeavor By Timothy Keller: Chapter Analysis

In the final two chapters of Every Good Endeavor, Timothy Keller ends his book by discussing the new aims of our work. They are found in the gospel, that power alone should motivate our work. In chapter 11, Keller begins by discussing our ethics and morals, and how the gospel should impact the way view and act in our workplace. Corruption can be found in many aspects of culture and the world. We should not disadvantage others to advantage ourselves. It might make good business sense to operate virtuously, but there are times when it will not. A Christian way of thinking will ultimately result in changing our thoughts on human value. This helps us face very confusing, moral dilemmas. We are forced to ask whether or not we want power, wealth

or comfort and whether or not we love God and our neighbor, the way Jesus commanded. We are not to be controlled by our circumstances, but we are to know what we are capable of doing to avoid bad decisions.

In the final chapter of Every Good Endeavor, Keller finishes his book by identifying what ought to be our motivations. There is real reason behind why we do what we do. For example, Jesus challenged His disciples to work by showing them that He was the big picture and that their identity was found in Him. The gospel should motivate us by giving us a new passion for work and even a deeper passion for the Sabbath. Even the greatest of endeavors will result in burnout if there isn't emphasis on the importance of rest. The Sabbath allows us to keep our work in the right perspective. We cannot live well when our lives are out of focus and out of balance. We do not have to work to redeem ourselves; God already did that through the redemptive work of Christ. We can live, work and enjoying knowing that every bit of work as dignity and meaning in Christ.