Issues, Etc. A Christian View of Leisure – Dr. Joel Biermann, 1/30/26 (0303)
Jan 30, 2026
Dr. Joel Biermann, professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary and author on work, rest, and leisure. He contrasts modern leisure as self-centered inactivity with classical contemplation as highest human activity. He traces medieval and Reformation debates about contemplation, explores Sabbath as weekly rhythm that integrates vocation and delight, and warns against phone distraction while urging joyful, God-centered leisure.
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Classical Leisure As Contemplation
- Aristotle defined leisure (skole) as contemplative activity that fulfills our distinctive human capacity to reason.
- Modern leisure as inactivity and self-indulgence is a degeneration of that classical ideal.
Medieval Leisure Turned Toward God
- Thomas Aquinas Christianized the classical ideal so contemplation aimed at God becomes the highest human activity.
- Medieval leisure became centered on worship and the beatific vision as the ultimate delight.
Two Dangers Of Contemplative Leisure
- Christianizing Aristotelian leisure risks two errors: ascent to God that smells of works-righteousness and neglect of vocation.
- Luther emphasized vocation: humans are created to serve in the world, not merely to contemplate God apart from duties.
