Should Christians In Business Hide Their Light?

by Infinity Concepts | Oct 18, 2011 | Leadership

“…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matt 5:16

While many businesses are run by believers who intentionally incorporate biblical principles into their corporate philosophy, some may avoid “wearing their heart on their sleeve” for fear of offending. Others, like Chick-fil-A, Hobby Lobby, and Sierra Trading Post, are very missional about how the Bible informs their Brand Culture.

Sometimes we may be called on to pay a price for not being ashamed of the Gospel, but a 2011 survey by Barna shows that letting people know that your Christian faith informs your business philosophy can have a positive impact on many American consumers (43%). While a very small percentage (3%) would be negatively disposed towards a company run by Christian principles, most are indifferent (51%).

Barna Group President David Kinnaman says of the study conclusions:

“Many contend that faith should be isolated from consumer decisions, and that the marketplace is deeply resistant to products and services delivered by companies who are overtly Christian. In fact, some executives and marketers are so focused on being inoffensive to anyone that many businesses have catered to critics by avoiding or stripping away any hint of faith-friendly practices or mission.

However, the research shows that the consumer audience is divided between those who favor Christian companies and those who are simply indifferent. Very few Americans appear to be opposed to such faith-related businesses.

So if you’re building your business on eternal principles, let your light shine.

As Jeff Vanderstelt says about living “Missionally” on the Verge Network:

“…We’ve been saved for a purpose. Not just the purpose that we would go to heaven. But we were saved for the purposes God had in mind in advance… before. And that in particular, we would be His people who live for His Glory on this planet, in such a way that we are going to make disciples who make disciples, and all of life will be lived for the Glory of God.”

It’s good both for now and eternity.