Marketplace influence

 

     When I was pastor in Salmon Arm several years ago one of my deacons gave me a book called Marketplace evangelism.  It was a book that gave wonderful thoughts about how Christians need to be in the marketplace.  Our voice needs to be heard in all arenas of life.  It could be business, government, education, social issues and life in general.  So, I thought here are seven reasons why the Christian needs to be in the marketplace and society in general.

Seven Reasons for Christians to Be the Marketplace

     Christians are called to be active participants in the marketplace for several reasons The marketplace is a place where Christians can make a significant impact on society and the economy.

     Spiritual Growth: The marketplace provides an opportunity for Christians to grow spiritually and use their gifts in a meaningful way.  You can use your skills, talents, and resources for the betterment of others.  Years ago, in our church in Slave Lake we had a man who named was John Perkinson.  John was a heavy-duty mechanic by trade.  He would do mechanical work for people for free or little money as a service to the Lord.  When I did his funeral a few years later more than 350 people came to the service and testimony of his helping people.

     Discipleship: Christians can engage in discipleship and spiritual growth through their work, which can be more impactful than traditional church services.  People need to see love in action.  We reach more people when we are active showing our faith than talking about it.  People will know we are Christians by our love in action in day-to-day life.

     Authenticity: The marketplace offers an authentic representation of Christianity, where faith can be demonstrated in a practical and everyday context. Remember Christians aren’t prefect but forgiven.  When you show by how you live and work, honesty, integrity, transparency, truthfulness, and reliability.  This speaks louder than any words we may utter.

     Kingdom Advancement: The marketplace is seen as the primary engine for kingdom advancement in the 21st century, where Christians can actively contribute to the spread of the Gospel.  You never know when an opportunity will come up to share your faith.  People have real problems and Christianity has real solutions.  You earn the right to be heard when you build long term consistent relationships.

     Collaboration: Christians can collaborate with others from different backgrounds to create a Kingdom-focused environment.  When people come together on projects and causes it is amazing what came be done.  When I was in broadcasting, I met a young man who heard about community in Africa needing wells for water.  He was only eight at the time when I met him, he had been responsible for over 700 wells being drilled in Africa.  Through his public speaking and efforts in working with nonprofits and businesses this feat had been accomplished.  He was a forward-thinking Christian.

     Economic Engine: The marketplace is the economic engine that funds the Kingdom, and Christians are called to make wise financial decisions that align with God's plan.  When we invest in business and then use it for funding the local church and world outreach, we never know what can happen.  Samaritans purse was started by Franklin Graham to be a social arm of the church.  It has reached millions and has been funded through churches, businesses and individuals.  We can do so much when we are in the marketplace.  It is where we need to be to touch others and be a blessing so do your part today. 

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These reasons highlight the multifaceted role of Christians in the marketplace, emphasizing their importance in both personal and communal life.