A More Christian Industrial Order: The Christian’s Duty at Work and in Labor
“A Christian community cannot measure its wealth by the profits of its industries or the volume of its trade, but by the richness of the lives of its men, women, and children.”
Disillusionment spread like wildfire after the cataclysmic events of World War I and the Spanish influenza pandemic of 1918–19. The emotional toll was particularly acute amongst workers and laborers, with many unable to find meaning or purpose anymore in their work. It was out of this environment that Henry Sloane Coffin (The Creed of Jesus, University Sermons) penned A More Christian Industrial Order.
Throughout the book he examines the Christian’s duty as producer, consumer, owner, investor, employer and employee. He also demonstrates how the Spirit of Jesus can reinvigorate and transform the way individuals and societies approach and experience work.
Coffin’s masterful application offers a glimpse of a better industrial world. A world where social strife, self-interest, profits, and greed are replaced with fraternity, selflessness, eternal purpose and mutual service – the perfect remedy for workers who feel lost and discouraged.
About the Author
Henry Sloane Coffin (1877–1954) was a renowned American minister and educator. He pastored Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City and made it one of the most influential churches in America under his leadership. He was Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A. and served as President of Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York. Learn More