Entrepreneurship is the process of designing, launching, and running a new business. As a Christian, how should we view entrepreneurship? Here is a biblical perspective on this topic.
Entrepreneurship as Stewardship
The Bible teaches that God has entrusted resources to us, and we are to be good stewards of what we have been given (Matthew 25:14-30). As entrepreneurs, we have opportunities to use our gifts, talents, ideas, time, relationships and finances wisely for God’s purposes. Starting and running a business is one way we can create value in society while honoring God with what He has placed in our hands.
Serving Others Through Business
Christian business leaders should view their entrepreneurial efforts as opportunities to serve others. Businesses meet real needs in the community – for goods, services, jobs, etc. By innovating new solutions and creating value for customers, entrepreneurs love and serve their neighbors (Mark 12:31). At the same time, customers also serve entrepreneurs through their patronage and feedback. There is mutual blessing in voluntary exchange.
Being Ethical and Excellent
Christian entrepreneurs set a high standard of integrity in their ventures (Colossians 3:23). They deal honestly with employees, customers and vendors. They work hard and seek excellence in all they do, reflecting the character of God. They follow laws and regulations as model citizens. And most importantly, their businesses operate by ethical biblical principles, not greed.
Working As Unto the Lord
The Bible instructs us to work heartily for the Lord, not just for men (Colossians 3:23). This empowers entrepreneurs to see their business activities as worship, using their God-given talents to the best of their ability. Christians should pursue excellence as if working directly for Jesus. Our work ethic and dedication are an outflow of doing everything unto the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Being Wise and Discerning
Christians must use wisdom and discernment in their entrepreneurial endeavors (Proverbs 3:5-6). They should seek God’s guidance when making business decisions and weigh costs and risks carefully. Some things lawful may not be beneficial. Running a business requires prudence and planning. Believers refrain from get-rich-quick schemes, harmful or shady practices and dangerous partnerships.
Being Content and Trusting God
The Bible warns against seeking wealth as life’s ultimate goal (1 Timothy 6:6-10). Eternal rewards in Christ matter most. Entrepreneurs find true contentment in God, not monetary success. While striving for excellence, Christians remember that business outcomes ultimately depend on the Lord’s blessing. We work diligently but rest in God’s providence, trusting Him amid both abundance and need.
Using Wealth Generously
Entrepreneurship often produces increased wealth. The Bible instructs believers not to hoard but to be generous and ready to share (1 Timothy 6:18). Christians recognize all their possessions as gifts from God to steward for Kingdom purposes. Entrepreneurial capacity can fund ministries, provide for families, create jobs, meet needs and spread the Gospel. Wealth is given by God to do good works.
Being Ready for Eternity
Success in business is temporal. Entrepreneurs store up treasures in heaven that last forever (Matthew 6:19-21). Earthly businesses will fade, but souls are eternal. Christians keep business in proper perspective. Even as we diligently work and pursue excellence, our hope is found in Christ alone. Entrepreneurship is but a means to glorify God and point people to salvation in Jesus.
Pursuing God’s Will
Entrepreneurs must seek God’s will when considering launching a new business venture or opportunity (James 4:13-16). We submit our plans to the Lord. Some ideas may not be right for us, despite seeming lucrative. On the other hand, the Lord may be calling us into a particular endeavor to use our entrepreneurial capacity for His purposes. We pray for direction and listen for God’s voice.
Persevering Through Hardships
Starting and running a successful business usually requires facing difficulties, risks and uncertainties. Entrepreneurs persevere through lean times by relying on God’s strength and grace (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Believers maintain hope in Christ amid setbacks and failures. We demonstrate faith when we trust God’s plans despite our circumstances or emotions. He works all things for our good and growth.
Being Fair and Just
The Bible condemns unjust business practices like dishonest weights and measures (Proverbs 20:10). Entrepreneurs exhibit the fruit of the Spirit like patience, kindness and self-control in dealings (Galatians 5:22-23). Employees should be treated and compensated fairly, not oppressed. Customers deserve good value for money. Fair profits reward entrepreneurial risk but greed is warned against. Justice and ethics matter to God.
Balancing Work and Rest
Running a business can consume time and energy. But the Bible calls people to balance work with godly rest and renewal (Exodus 20:8-11). Entrepreneurs should avoid burnout and workaholism. Our worth and identity is not defined by vocational success. Christian business leaders build teams to share burdens appropriately. We can work vigorously while still resting in God’s grace and taking Sabbath.
Being Faithful With Little
Entrepreneurship often starts small before expanding. Jesus taught the principle that faithfulness with a little leads to being trusted with more (Matthew 25:21). Christians prove trustworthy in small things first. Diligence and perseverance in early stages lay foundations for greater opportunities. We work heartily in humble beginnings, trusting God to bless faithfulness and expand impact.
Reflecting Christ-Like Character
As Christians, our business practices should reflect the character and teachings of Jesus. We exhibit honesty, servanthood, compassion, virtue, faith and integrity in all dealings. The way we treat people, handle money, respond under pressure and keep promises displays our witness. Entrepreneurship provides a platform to live out the Gospel personally and practically, pointing people to Christ.
Joining a Noble Profession
When done ethically, entrepreneurship is a noble calling that creates win-win value. Christians follow the example of industrious biblical figures like Lydia, Aquila and Priscilla. Running a business can be an honorable means of providing for one’s household. The entrepreneurial calling requires sacrifice and grit, but brings opportunity to steward resources and serve society for God’s glory.
In summary, Christians view entrepreneurship as a calling to be pursued diligently, ethically and prayerfully. It is a platform to create value for others while honoring God with the abilities and resources He has given us. Done rightly according to biblical principles, entrepreneurship can be a blessing that uplifts communities and expands the Kingdom.
