What is a Christian Business?

What is a Christian Business?by Jim Shoemaker for Kingdom Advisors

I think everyone knows and understands there is no such entity as a “Christian business.” A business is a corporation, partnership, or proprietorship. Yet a business may reflect the values of the principal owners and managers. It is these values that determine whether or not a business is labeled Christian or non-Christian.

We are told in James 1:22 to be “doers” of the Word. A business becomes a great tool to create an environment for doing God’s Word.

Knowing God’s principles and precepts is the first step to serving His purposes by running the business according to His rules. The Christian who has knowledge, understanding, and commitment to a Christ-centered business will do what God has commanded. The decision to live and run a business this way may cost economically, but will yield something even greater – God’s wisdom and peace.

Joshua 1:8-9 tells us that if we live according to these truths, God promises prosperity. In fact, many individuals would be astonished to hear the testimonies of many Christian business leaders that testify of how God has prospered their businesses as the result of being  “doers” of the Word.

The purpose of a Christian business is to glorify God. After leadership has decided on this as a principle, each decision thereafter is much simpler. Everything must be done within the harmony of God’s Word. Everything we say or do must be weighed against our purpose – does it glorify God? (Colossians 3:23)

Performance Issues Of A “Christian” Business

  1. Make a Profit
    You may be surprised that I put “Make a Profit” first when obviously there are other issues that seem to be more important, such as evangelism and discipleship. We have a problem in the Christian community that must be dealt with. Sometimes Christians seem to believe that God will bless them supernaturally, while they ignore proper management of the business. Trust and He will take care of everything.

    The problem that exists is that “Christian” businesses are sometimes the ones that have the poorest reputation in the community – a business that doesn’t pay its bills, or even pay fair wages. This is not the image that is pleasing to the Lord. Making a fair profit, paying bills, and fair wages are musts for a Christian business. Proverbs 16:9 tells us that it is God who directs us to think and plan.

  2. Evangelize
    Obviously, the key to this performance issue is to walk the talk. Your example to employees, suppliers, creditors, and customers should be above reproach. Watch for inconsistencies in your life. The inconsistencies are red flags to those that are looking at you and watching you walk the talk.
  3. Develop Disciples
    Another performance issue is to develop disciples by training and encouraging those with whom you work side by side daily. 2 Timothy 2:2 states that as a leader, we should be teachers. Obviously, in today’s politically correct world, this is more difficult than it should be. God is a rewarder of those that keep His commandments. Keeping commandments and living a life that is centered on Christ will bring honor and glory to God. This is lifestyle evangelism and a great example for anyone to follow.

I heard Larry Burkett ask two questions to a Christian friend of mine. They were profound.

  1. “When people think of you, do they focus on your business success first or your visible image as a disciple of Christ?”
  2. “Do your employees and close business contacts know and respect your unwavering stand for the Lord and His principles?”

Great questions to ponder. Does all of this sound difficult? No doubt, but God has given us a promise in Proverbs 2:5, 6: “Then you will discern the fear of the Lord, and discover the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding.”

Build your business as a Christian. God will be honored and you will be blessed.

Jim Shoemaker is a member of the Kingdom Advisors.

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