Matthew 6:33
“”As a business coach, I deal with “Christian business owners” all the time…and I’ve had such bad experiences with “Christian businesses” that it often worries me when I even hear the term. I hear the term at times, and almost immediately start expecting to be ripped off. Maybe because they said a prayer one Sunday morning, they feel they’re forgiven for whatever they do. I don’t know.””
This is a quote from Terry Dean, an ordained minister and full time online business owner since 1996, from his site Christian Business in the Internet Age.
Are you a Christian business owner? Have you dealt with a Christian business owner? What are your experiences? Sadly, my experience is similar to Terry Dean’s comment in some cases. I have found that many Christian business owners conduct their business by the way of the world and not the way of the cross. Now, before you judge me too harshly or think I am out to get Christian business owners please note I am a Christian business owner. Also note, that I have known many Christian business owners who have represented their devotion and convictions faithfully and beautifully.
In today’s competitive world some resort to business tactics that are ungodly or unethical in a spiritual sense. Some say, “It’s just business.” While some of the tactics are I refer to are not illegal, some do not line up with the gospel. I sincerely doubt many of these business owners are intentionally making decisions outside of their conviction and devotion to Christ. The issue is separating a Christian life from a business life. Problem being one cannot separate their faith from their business like one separates eggs for baking. In addition, your decisions will reflect Christ. Like it or not, even if you compartmentalize your faith your customers will not. While many who do not know Christ will accept certain business tactics from others who do not know Christ the same grace will not be given to the Christian business owner. Nor should it. We are called to be separate from the world. Our lives represent Christ and our home businesses are an extension of our life therefore our business cannot neglect the testimony of Christ.