Business Parallels

The employers' organisation, the CBI, have spoken of the need for long-term social and political stability, so that long-term investments can be planned and delivered in many sectors of the business world. Without stability there will not be confidence, and without confidence, there will not be investment, and without investment, there will not be growth.

It seems to me that this has some parallels with the growth of Gospel ministry in many situations.

St. Paul encouraged people to pray for political leaders, so that the gospel may be spread more effectively. 'I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Saviour, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.' (1 Timothy 2.1-4) For our church, it helps that many people have been active in ministry at all levels for many years.

Ironically, the New Testament also highlights the spread of the Gospel in times of violent persecution. 'A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria. But the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went.' (Acts 8.1,4)

The business parallel might be the observation that when wars break out, many businesses thrive. There is always plenty of money to be made and spent on the war effort.

From the contemporary Christian scene, we know well that times of trouble and personal upset are often the times when people turn towards God and his Church, to find if help may be available. That presents us with the challenge of meeting the needs of some very troubled people. 

I guess that, like the weather, which is often changing, with sunshine, showers, wind and much that is unexpected, both businesses and the Christian community need to be ready to be open for business in all seasons.

Best wishes,

Richard