Apostolic Entrepreneurship: Building Kingdom Businesses

The entrepreneurial spirit, when coupled with a divine calling, can become a powerful force for ministry. God is raising up "apostolic entrepreneurs"—individuals gifted with an apostolic grace to build faith-based businesses that extend the Kingdom beyond traditional church settings. This isn't just about profit; it's about purpose, impact, and building structures that reflect God's heart.

Here are three key aspects of this unique calling:

1. Laying Foundations: Building Kingdom-Centered Enterprises.

Apostles are foundation-layers, builders, and strategists. This translates into entrepreneurs establishing businesses rooted in Kingdom principles. They create structures that not only generate income but also serve as platforms for ministry, discipleship, and community transformation. Just as Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 2), apostolic entrepreneurs rebuild and establish systems within the marketplace.

• Scriptural Insight: 1 Corinthians 3:10, "According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building1 upon it." This highlights the apostolic role of laying foundations.

• Biblical Example: Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18) were tentmakers who used their business as a base for ministry. They hosted church gatherings in their home and mentored Apollos, demonstrating how business can be a conduit for spiritual growth.

• Call to Action: Prayerfully assess your business vision. Is it aligned with building Kingdom structures? Identify how your skills and resources can be used to lay foundations for God's work in your industry.

2. Strategic Influence: Operating with Apostolic Grace.

Apostolic grace brings strategic insight, visionary leadership, and the ability to navigate complex situations. Entrepreneurs operating in this grace bring order, innovation, and a spirit of excellence to their businesses. This influence extends beyond the company itself, impacting the wider marketplace and culture. Just as Daniel influenced the Babylonian court (Daniel 1-6), apostolic entrepreneurs bring God's wisdom to their spheres of influence.

• Scriptural Insight: Proverbs 22:29, "Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men." This 2 speaks to the influence and impact of skillful work.

• Biblical Example: Joseph, through his administrative and strategic gifts, rose to a position of leadership in Egypt, saving the nation from famine (Genesis 41). His example shows how God uses business acumen for Kingdom purposes.

• Call to Action: Seek God's wisdom for strategic decisions in your business. How can you leverage your influence to bring positive change to your industry and community?

3. Extending the Kingdom: Discipleship and Community Impact.

Apostolic entrepreneurs are called to extend the Kingdom beyond the walls of the church. This involves creating workplaces that reflect Kingdom values, providing products and services that meet real needs, and engaging in community outreach. It's about being salt and light in the marketplace, demonstrating the love of Christ through business practices.

• Scriptural Insight: Matthew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

• Insights on building beyond church walls:

  • Create mentorship programs within your business that focus on personal and spiritual development.

  • Partner with local charities and non-profits to address community needs.

  • Host workshops and seminars that teach biblical principles for business and life.

  • Create products or services that solve real world problems, and in doing so, show the love of Christ.

• Call to Action: Identify opportunities to disciple and serve your community through your business. How can you create a culture of generosity and compassion within your business?

Summary:

Apostolic entrepreneurship is a powerful calling that blends business acumen with a divine mandate. It's about building Kingdom-centered enterprises, operating with strategic influence, and extending the Kingdom beyond the walls of the church. By embracing this calling, entrepreneurs can become agents of transformation, bringing God's love and purpose to the marketplace.