Every Good Endeavour – Tim Keller 3o7

Every Good Endeavour – Tim Keller, Book Reflection by Paul Byun Author: The author Timothy Keller is a pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church. I believe Keller is well fitted to write a book on the nature of work, for his church has a majority of young workers and his 23 years of experience would allow him give great insight on this topic. Ultimately I found this book very insightful. I would also add that it would be very helpful for anyone who is working or is to work. The book begins by laying out the initial intentions on work through the Bible. Keller contends that work is truly a part of God’s character and this characteristic was then breathed into us as we were created. However, since the fall we do not find work truly gratifying and God glorifying because of our sin, in other words, our blindness of what is true. Keller in his next section displays our blindness through the lens of the Bible and through various philosophers both secular and religious. The third and last segment of the book is about “the Gospel and Work”. Keller’s experience is remarkable. He has such a variety people working in different sectors that he is able to convey Gospel centered advice for those in vocation. Here are some examples throughout his books that had me highlighting and circling the pages:   

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The purpose of work is to serve and exalt something beyond ourselves (p.68). Though it’s rather simple, its something that needs to be constantly observed. I ought to understand and practice my work as a means to glorify God. Work ought not to be self-centered, on the contrary, it ought to have this aspect of selflessness, Keller calls this “Work as an Act of Love” (p.74). Keller in his book writes a phrase, which I subconsciously say regularly, “If I had that, it would fix everything; then I’d feel my life really had value” (p.134). This is ultimately apostasy. This kind of mindset is a train of thought beginning with the assertion “the Cross is not enough”. I as a Christian am a debtor to grace. God has enlightened me with the knowledge of Christ, which is the ultimate source of security and life itself. And my last point for time being is the Christian worldview (Christian worldview being the orthodox one) shapes all of work (p.179)

The best feature about this book as a whole is how is starts with God and ends with how the Gospel moves us closer to Him and to faithfully partner with Him in completing his works. In all honesty I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend people to read it. However, this is not easy. This is because, though the book is fairly easy to read, the sheer size of the book could be quite intimidating. If it were possible, condensing the book may have more people read it. This is not a critique to produce better sales, but rather one that is proposed because the importance of work must be known and expounded to all Christians worldwide. Only if the book was condensable, only if… All the topics within the book are so crucial… only if.