In this episode, we talk about why the foundation for a Christian’s approach to getting more done is distinctly different from the world’s. And why that means we must take greater care in how we approach the secular productivity advice we read and listen to.

1:50 – Introducing why we need a distinctly Christian approach to productivity

Why this is different than “Christianizing” secular productivityThere is a unique theology to a Christian’s understanding of productivityIt is dangerous for believers to simply take whatever the world teaches on productivity.These books have helpful advice and guidance, but must be approached with discernment.

5:30 – Every philosophy of productivity has a theology

Most productivity books and podcasts eventually leave the practical and begin to tread on religious themes—why we are here, the nature of man, the goal of life, etc.

11:08 – Examples of secular productivity books presenting religious themes

Quotes from The War of Art, The Compound Effect, The Power of Habit, and more.

20:30 – What makes these things dangerous, and how it relates to the sufficiency of Scripture

If we don’t listen carefully, we inadvertently imbibe unbiblical theologies and build our life on them.Explanation of the sufficiency of Scripture and how that assures us of a better foundation for our productivity as Christians.

25:20 – Examples of Scripture speaking directly to the issue of productivity

The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30; Luke 19:12-28), The mandate to work heartily unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23)To not waste time (Ephesians 5:15–17) To live with self-control (Titus 2:12)The entire book of Proverbs and its emphasis on wisdom.All of these point to not just the possibility, but to the necessity, of a truly Christian productivity.

26:55 – Christian productivity is only for Christians and an explanation of what it means to be a Christian

Christian productivity doesn’t work for everyone, only for those who have put their faith in Jesus ChristChange in the Christian life is the work of God, but that change is accomplished through the means of diligent effortR.C. Sproul quote, “… we think that because we’re…Christian…we do not have to be concerned about productivity. On the contrary, our calling as Christians is the highest calling there is, and the idea of being productive is not the invention of capitalism, it is the mandate of Christ.” (R.C. Sproul, John, St. Andrew’s Expositional Commentary, 286)

Links

This episode was based in part upon my article Why We Need a Distinctly Christian Productivity, which was itself based on material I used for my course on Stewardship & ProductivityOn the Mormon roots of 7 Habits for Highly Effective People – A Closer Look at Stephen Covey and His 7 HabitsBooks mentioned on today’s episode: The War of Art, The Compound Effect, The Power of Habit, Atomic Habits, Deep Work.