Studies in Faith, Work, and Culture: Introduction

One of the most significant developments in evangelical Christianity over the past several decades is the “faith and work” (FAW) movement. This movement seeks to help Christians cultivate an integrated approach to their faith and work. Convinced that a Christian’s work should be neither a mere instrument for personal gain nor an idol that defines their identity, the FAW movement emphasizes the God-given nature of work, calling for it to be ordered toward God’s glory and human flourishing.

Initially, the FAW movement was predominantly lay-led, with churches and Christian institutions slow to join the conversation. In its early phase, the movement focused on persuading Christians that integrating faith and work matters. Many participants came to the profound realization: “My work matters to God.” Now, the movement is maturing, shifting to address the more complex question: “How does my particular work reflect God’s purpose?” This deepening inquiry represents the next step in the development of the FAW conversation.

As the triune God exercises sovereignty over all spheres of life, he calls his people to serve him in all spheres of labor. Understanding how to serve God well in our work requires a vision that connects our vocation with God’s sovereign design. Good work—work that glorifies God and serves the common good—acknowledges our dependence on God’s provision, follows the wisdom of his guidance, and stewards his common grace.

The Institute for Faith, Work, and Culture (IFWC) at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando seeks to equip pastors and leaders with a God-centered vision of work. It provides formal and nonformal training in biblical, theological, and applied foundations essential to cultivating a Reformed vision of faith, work, and culture. IFWC aims to bring the resources of Reformed theology to the faith and work conversation, offering students and leaders opportunities to learn from FAW experts and apply these principles to diverse communities.

A key initiative in IFWC’s vision is a series of colloquia designed to foster research and discussion that culminate in specialized issues of Reformed Faith & Practice. These issues will feature high-quality scholarship, furthering the theological depth of the faith and work conversation.

Theology is the focus of the first colloquium. We invited scholars to reflect on themes of God, creation, sin, redemption, and eschatology. By inviting leaders and stakeholders in the FAW movement to join each colloquium, IFWC aims to continue expanding the horizons of the movement, promoting a holistic, God-glorifying approach to work in the modern world.

The FAW movement has often focused especially on certain topics and ignored or underexplored others. We hope these studies not only add new rigor to familiar doctrines but also bring oft-ignored doctrines into play. The movement will only be the stronger for its further consideration of the whole counsel of God.