Business as mission

On June 4-6 I had the opportunity to attend a training by Global Disciples on Small Business Development. The emphasis is using small business in developing countries as a way to build positive relationships with local people and thereby share the Good News and strengthen the local church. It is designed primarily for persons who are starting churches in new areas. Many believers in developing countries have the idea that persons in business are less spiritual than persons in full-time Christian service, and so they tend to withdraw from involvement in the business world. This training emphasizes that God calls us, not to withdraw from the world around us, but to enter into it as persons sent by God into the world, using "what is in their hand" as the start of the their business venture. It includes organizational tools such as developing a business plan and financial management, and also the spiritual tools such as prayer, integrity and vision for ministry. It encourages believers to use "what is in their hand" and develop a bu
When I visited East Africa in March, I heard requests for this kind of training, both to strengthen the financial base of believers and the church, and also as a way to engage in ministry in local towns.
Theologically, this is an incarnational approach to mission. Just as Jesus took on humanity in order to relate to humankind, this is an example of the messenger taking on the "humanity" of the local community through  entering into the business community and bringing God's kingdom near. I am planning to use this as a tool to strengthen the life and witness of the churches in East Africa.