Thinking Theologically about Work | Karen Swallow Prior

Many people view work as either a means to success or a necessary burden. But how should Christians think about work theologically?

In this episode of Logos Live, Kirk E. Miller talks with Karen Swallow Prior about theological view of work, drawing from Genesis and doctrines like the priesthood of believers. They discuss how work reflects God’s image, how Christ’s redemption reshapes our labor, and how we can find joy in our daily tasks—even in the midst of toil and frustration.

Whether you’re struggling to find meaning in your job or wondering how faith intersects with work, this conversation will help you develop a richer, more biblical theology of vocation.

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Episode outline:

00:00 Introduction to Logos Live

00:22 Meet Karen Swallow Pryor

00:32 Theology of Work and Vocation

02:37 Common Misconceptions About Work

05:43 Biblical Theology vs. Secular Ideas

10:50 The Protestant Reformation's Impact on Work

14:55 The Curse and the Creation Mandate

20:56 Reflecting God's Image Through Work

26:28 Encouragement for Monotonous Jobs

29:34 Understanding Work, Vocation, and Calling

31:51 Embracing Ordinary Work

36:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts