Message: “Business and Christianity” from Joe Summers

Sunday Lesson Theme: Business and Christianity Lesson Objective: To help believers understand how Christian values can guide ethical decision-making, integrity, and stewardship in the world of business, and how business can be a platform for ministry. Primary Scriptures: 1. Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…” 2. Proverbs 11:1 – “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.” 3. Matthew 25:14–30 – Parable of the Talents 4. Luke 16:10–13 – Faithful with little, faithful with much; cannot serve both God and money. 5. Deuteronomy 8:18 – “But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth…” Lesson Outline 1. Introduction: Faith in the Marketplace 2. Ask: “Can business be a calling from God?” • Share examples of Christian entrepreneurs or businesspeople. • Define business in a broad sense — entrepreneurship, employment, financial decision-making. ________________________________________ 2. Biblical Foundations of Work and Business • Work is God-ordained: Genesis 2:15 – Adam was placed in the garden to work. • Stewardship: Business is a tool to manage God’s resources (Parable of Talents). • Integrity: Honesty in business dealings (Proverbs 11:1). • Excellence: Colossians 3:23 calls us to do business as unto the Lord. 3. Christian Values in the Workplace • Honesty & Fairness • Humility vs. Pride • Serving others (Mark 10:45) • Conflict resolution • Tithing and generosity Discussion Questions: • How can I maintain my integrity in a competitive business world? • What temptations in business challenge my Christian values? 4. Using Business as Ministry • Marketplace as a mission field • Supporting ministries through business success • Ethical leadership as a witness • Testimony of faith through your conduct Examples: • Christian-owned businesses with prayer groups, chaplaincy, community outreach • Businesses funding missionary work or scholarships ________________________________________ 5. Conclusion & Call to Action • Reflect: How can I use my business or job to glorify God? • Encourage prayer over your business decisions • Accountability partners for faith in business Memory Verse: “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31

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From Series: "Sunday Service"

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