After analyzing the relationship between entrepreneurship, redemption, and Christ, how do we conduct business and entrepreneurship in a God-honoring way? First and foremost, Christian enterprise ought to be marked by stewardship. Consider, if you will, the role of the deacon within the church. In churches were the office of deacon is present, these individuals are often tasked with the physical stewardship of the congregation. (This is not to draw a false dichotomy between the physical and spiritual, but rather to acknowledge the difference between preaching and fixing the plumbing in the church basement.) They aren’t (ideally) chosen as primarily spiritual leaders, but rather as trustworthy individuals who assist congregants in any day-to-day struggles, partake in the upkeep of church property, and help organize and execute the logistical features of church life.
For example, my grandfather has served as a deacon at his church for a number of years. He helps prepare the sanctuary for worship, locks the building after service, and assists in cleaning and maintain the building in general. He does not serve on the session, nor is he particularly responsible for the spiritual health of the church, apart from the basic activities expected of the average communicate member.
This kind of activity provides an excellent model for Christian business. It would be inappropriate for entrepreneurs to try and take on the advanced spiritual stewardship of God’s people as an entrepreneurial activity. If a man believes he is being called to shepherd God’s people, then he ought to commit himself the study of God’s word, seminary, and a proper dedication to the activity. Attaching some bible verses and a supposedly biblical message to a piece of merchandise serves to cheapen the message of the gospel to something that simply helps sell more t-shirts.
Non-Christian business is often marked by exploitation and deception. Many major shoe brands, such as Nike, utilize slave labor. Contrast that to a business such as Black Rifle Coffee Company. BRCC is not a Christian company. However, their responsible sourcing of coffee and assisting in the hiring and rehabilitating of combat veterans expresses Christ-like stewardship and care. They use their business to care for others, beyond just in a cold contractual way, but in a way that is beneficial to individuals in a very personal way. This model is much more legitimate than a monetization of the scripture message. It serves to help others in a relevant manner, demonstrates care for non-human creation, and is consistent with a worldview that places man on earth as a steward.
Can entrepreneurship be redemptive? Certainly, God can use business enterprise as means to save individuals. But to try and leverage entrepreneurship to achieve redemption is impossible and sinful, so we must be very careful when we began to overtly express the gospel message in the midst of commerce.
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This was a very encouraging summary outlook of how people see God and businesses. They do not really mix in people's minds especially when it is viewed as oil and water. Thank you for putting in the time to see the good and Christian service on the businesses that wouldn't have normally been seen as Christian.