Every Good Endeavor by Timothy Keller
Week 8: Chapter 7 — The Idea of Calling
Read Chapter 7 of Every Good Endeavor. Key Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:17–24; Romans 12:1–2.
Previewing Week 8 of Every Good Endeavor
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 12-week guide when you’re ready.
Having diagnosed what's wrong with work, Keller now turns toward the healing — and it begins with recovering the richly biblical concept of calling, or vocation.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Keller distinguishes between the 'general calling' (the call every Christian receives to follow Christ, love God, and serve others) and 'particular callings' (the specific roles, jobs, and relationships in which we live out that general call). How does this distinction clarify what it means to be 'called' to a career?
2.The chapter recovers the Reformation insight — particularly from Luther and Calvin — that every legitimate occupation is a calling from God, not just ordained ministry. Before reading this chapter, did you instinctively feel that some jobs were more 'called' than others? Has Keller's argument shifted that instinct?
3.Keller engages the tension between calling and circumstance — the fact that many people are not in their 'ideal' job, and some have very limited occupational choices. How does 1 Corinthians 7:17 ('Each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them') speak to that tension?
a.Is there a difference between being content in your current situation and being passive about pursuing better opportunities?
b.How do you discern whether a desire to change jobs is Spirit-led growth or restless idolatry?