What Is Thine Occupation?

From the Pastor: Dr. M. J. Seymour, Sr.

“…What is thine occupation? and whence comest thou? what is thy country? and of what people art thou? ” (Jonah 1:8)

Jonah faced four excellent questions that ought to be levied against everyone that refers to themselves as a “Christian.”

1. – “What is thine occupation?” – The word “occupation” is defined as what occupies or engages one’s time, as in employment, vocation, or service. Biblically, those that are born out of the Spirit of God “are ambassadors for Christ.” (II Cor. 5:20) Jesus said: “… ye shall be witnesses unto me …” (Acts 1:8) It is the business of every child of God to be actively representing Jesus as the Christ by giving a clear determinate testimony of who He is, what He did, and what He is going to do. It is the Christian’s business to occupy himself with the fullness of his calling in Christ Jesus.

2. – “Whence comest thou?” – Of John the Baptist it is written: “There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.” (John 1:6) Paul wrote: “Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, …)” (Gal. 1:1) Jesus commanded: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mk. 16:15) God has called out and sent forth His sheep of His own will and purpose to be occupied and consumed with the Lord’s heavenly business.

3. – “What is thy country?” – “But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” (Heb. 11:16) “And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” (Rev. 21:2) The redeemed are in this world, but we are not of this world. (John 17:14-16)

4. – “Of what people art thou?” – “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, …” (I Jn. 3:2) Be occupied with Jesus’ business!