Be a Blessing: The Theology of Work in the Narrative of Genesis - Paperback

by Elizabeth Ellen Ostring (Author), Richard M. Davidson (Foreword by)

Utilizing the techniques of narratology and literary analysis, this study examines the foundational biblical text of Genesis to develop the theology of ordinary human work that emerges from it. The study offers a history of Christian theologies of human work as well as a unique approach to both the topic of work and the literary structure of Genesis. The emerging concept of blessing rather than achievement provides a refreshing and yet practical approach to human work. This is a valuable complement to the current interest in this topic, and one that, although challenging some current concepts, is encouraging.

Author Biography

Elizabeth Ellen Ostring, MB, ChB, MMin, PhD, who is married with adult twins, currently has pastoral roles in Auckland, New Zealand. She is a retired family and musculoskeletal physician and spent many years as a medical missionary in Asia. She has had roles in church administration, at national and international levels, has lectured in theology, and is author of a variety of journal articles and Just 30 Minutes (2013).