Garden City

What's "Garden City: Work, Rest, and the Art of Being Human" about?

• Exploration of Work and Rest: The book delves into the biblical perspective on work and rest, emphasizing their importance in human life.
• Theological Anthropology: It discusses how humans are created in the image of God, meant to partner with Him in creation and redemption.
• Integration of Faith and Vocation: John Mark Comer explores the interconnectedness of faith and vocation, challenging the sacred-secular divide.
• Vision of the Future: The book presents a vision of the future where work and rest are perfectly balanced in a renewed creation.

Why should I read "Garden City: Work, Rest, and the Art of Being Human"?

• Practical Insights: The book offers practical insights into how to live a balanced life that honors God through work and rest.
• Cultural Relevance: It addresses modern issues like workaholism, consumerism, and the search for meaning in a fast-paced world.
• Spiritual Growth: Readers are encouraged to deepen their understanding of their identity and purpose as image bearers of God.
• Hopeful Vision: The book provides a hopeful vision of the future, inspiring readers to live with purpose and anticipation.

What are the key takeaways of "Garden City: Work, Rest, and the Art of Being Human"?

• Work as Worship: Work is not just a means to an end but an act of worship and service to God and others.
• Sabbath Rest: The importance of Sabbath as a time for rest, reflection, and worship is emphasized as essential for human flourishing.
• Eschatological Hope: The book highlights the future hope of a renewed creation where work and rest are perfectly integrated.
• Identity and Calling: Understanding one's unique calling and identity in Christ is crucial for living a fulfilling life.

How does John Mark Comer define work in "Garden City"?

• Creative Partnership: Work is seen as partnering with God in the ongoing creation and cultivation of the world.
• Service to Others: It involves serving others and contributing to human flourishing through various vocations.
• Expression of Identity: Work is an expression of one's identity as an image bearer of God, reflecting His creativity and purpose.
• Integral to Life: Work is not separate from spiritual life but is central to living out one's faith.

What is the significance of the Sabbath in "Garden City"?

• Rest and Worship: The Sabbath is a day set aside for rest and worship, reflecting God's rhythm of work and rest.
• Resistance to Consumerism: It serves as an act of resistance against the relentless pursuit of productivity and consumerism.
• Time for Reflection: The Sabbath provides time to reflect on God's goodness and the blessings of life.
• Holistic Well-being: Observing the Sabbath is essential for maintaining physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

How does "Garden City" address the sacred-secular divide?

• All of Life is Spiritual: The book argues that all aspects of life, including work, are spiritual and matter to God.
• Integration of Faith and Vocation: It challenges the notion that only church-related work is sacred, emphasizing the value of all vocations.
• Holistic Discipleship: Followers of Jesus are called to live integrated lives where faith permeates every area, including work.
• Cultural Engagement: The book encourages engaging with culture through work as a means of reflecting God's kingdom.

What does "Garden City" say about the future of work and rest?

• Renewed Creation: The book envisions a future where work and rest are perfectly balanced in a renewed creation.
• Eternal Significance: Work done in this life has eternal significance and will carry over into the age to come.
• Training for Reigning: This life is seen as preparation for ruling with Christ in the new creation.
• Hopeful Anticipation: The future hope of resurrection and renewal inspires present-day faithfulness in work and rest.

What are the best quotes from "Garden City" and what do they mean?

• "Work is worship": This quote emphasizes that work is an act of worship and service to God, not just a means to an end.
• "The Sabbath is a gift": It highlights the Sabbath as a divine gift for rest and reflection, essential for human flourishing.
• "We are God's partners": This underscores the idea that humans are called to partner with God in the ongoing work of creation.
• "The kingdom of heaven is at hand": It reflects the book's theme of living in anticipation of God's future kingdom.

How does "Garden City" redefine greatness?

• Servant Leadership: Greatness is redefined as serving others, following Jesus' example of humility and service.
• Beyond Self-Interest: True greatness is not about personal achievement but about contributing to the well-being of others.
• Kingdom Values: The book encourages adopting kingdom values of love, service, and humility in all areas of life.
• Eternal Perspective: Greatness is viewed in light of eternity, where acts of service have lasting significance.

What role does identity play in "Garden City"?

• Image Bearers of God: Identity is rooted in being created in the image of God, with inherent dignity and purpose.
• Unique Calling: Each person has a unique calling and vocation that reflects their identity in Christ.
• Freedom from Performance: Understanding one's identity in God frees individuals from seeking validation through work or achievements.
• Living Authentically: Embracing one's identity allows for authentic living and meaningful contribution to the world.

How does "Garden City" address the concept of calling?

• Unearthing a Calling: Calling is seen as something to be discovered and unearthed, not just chosen or pursued.
• Voice and Vocation: The book emphasizes finding one's unique voice and vocation as an expression of God's design.
• Holistic Approach: Calling encompasses all areas of life, integrating work, relationships, and spiritual growth.
• Service to the World: A true calling involves serving others and contributing to the flourishing of God's creation.

What practical advice does "Garden City" offer for balancing work and rest?

• Establish a Rhythm: Create a rhythm of work and rest that aligns with God's design for human flourishing.
• Prioritize the Sabbath: Set aside a day each week for rest, worship, and reflection, free from work-related activities.
• Embrace Limitations: Recognize and embrace human limitations, trusting in God's provision and care.
• Cultivate Gratitude: Practice gratitude for the work and rest God provides, fostering a spirit of contentment and joy.