“In order to fulfil the Great Commission, every believer needs to be a minister and every workplace a place of ministry.” ~Bishop Efraim Tendero, World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) 

The Next Move of God: Unleashing Transformation in The Marketplace! Read that statement again, for it carries a profound truth: the next move of God is destined to unfold within the marketplace! If you hold a leadership role in the business world, it's time to embrace this vision wholeheartedly. The realm of commerce holds immense potential for God's divine intervention and impact. As a marketplace leader, you are a significant representative of God's presence in the business arena.

The visionary Evangelist Billy Graham, revered as the founder of the Lausanne Committee for World Evangelism, once proclaimed, "I firmly believe that one of the forthcoming great moves of God will manifest through believers in the workplace." This truth resonates deeply. The marketplace, as the epicenter of bustling activity in society, is where influential figures and decision-makers converge. It's noteworthy that even Jesus was born amidst the marketplace, a place of interaction and exchange, and it's no coincidence that He selected many of His disciples from this very setting.

Consider the fascinating roles played by individuals in the Bible: Luke, a skilled medical doctor, contributed to the Gospel narrative; Matthew, a former tax collector, brought his unique perspective; Mark, a steward of a family trust, offered insights; and John, a supplier of food, added his contribution. Lydia engaged in the trade of purple cloth, while Dorcas showcased her talents as a cloth designer. These diverse roles underscore the significance of the marketplace in God's grand plan.

Ed Silvoso, an esteemed author and advocate, emphasizes the divine calling of business. He proclaims that each Christian's presence at work encompasses a vast opportunity, often overlooked, to share the message of faith. This revelation holds immense power – as individuals spend an average of approximately ninety thousand hours at work over a lifetime, representing a third of one's existence. This presence in the workplace becomes a natural avenue for evangelism, a chance to radiate God's light in the most ordinary yet impactful way.

Indeed, the next move of God is stirring within the marketplace. The convergence of faith and commerce has the potential to ignite transformational change that ripples across societies and nations. Embrace this divine calling and seize the moment to influence hearts, make a difference, and be a vessel for God's extraordinary work in the dynamic realm of business.

Empowering The Great Commission: Unleashing Christian Impact in The Workplace The ongoing discourse surrounding faith and work is destined to endure. Yet, the transformative potential of Christians within the marketplace cannot be overlooked when considering the fulfillment of the Great Commission. The focal point of this imperative, "Empowering the Great Commission: Unleashing Christian Impact in the Workplace," encapsulated the essence of the Lausanne Movement Conference convened on June 29, 2019, in Manila.

This historic gathering marked a significant milestone in the annals of Lausanne's legacy. Notably, 65 percent of the nearly 900 attendees hailing from 110 countries were devout Christians who primarily contribute to society through their roles in workplaces beyond the confines of churches or ministry organizations. Together, they represented a diverse tapestry of the global workforce, spanning laborers and CEOs, entrepreneurs and investors, encompassing blue-collar, white-collar, 'pink-collar,' and even 'no-collar' workers – those who diligently serve as homemakers or caregivers within the often-overlooked domain of home.

The conference intricately explored the multifaceted dimensions of work worldwide. Enlightening discussions delved into the intricate intersections between workplaces and pivotal issues such as health, poverty, economic equity, women's empowerment, human trafficking, the plight of vulnerable children, urbanization, the influence of artificial intelligence, and a plethora of other pertinent topics. Inspirational case studies highlighted gospel-driven transformations orchestrated through workplaces and businesses across the globe, imparting profound insights into the tangible impact of faith in action.

Participants enthusiastically engaged in dynamic exchanges within table groups, fostering creative collaborations in innovative settings aptly named "labs." These labs facilitated meaningful interaction, while seminars, regional assemblies, and experiential visits to companies and organizations throughout Manila enriched the conference experience.

In sum, "Empowering the Great Commission: Unleashing Christian Impact in the Workplace" underscored the indispensable role of Christians within the realm of work, affirming their unique capacity to drive positive change and actively propel the fulfillment of the Great Commission. This momentous gathering, marked by its diversity and devotion, reignited the dialogue on faith and work, echoing far beyond its conclusion, as participants returned to their respective spheres, emboldened to be instruments of transformation and bearers of Christ's love.

Bridging the Secular-Sacred Divide: A Critical Imperative Regrettably, there persist certain segments within the Christian community who uphold the notion that work should remain disconnected from matters of faith. This perspective contends that our faith ought to be confined within the walls of the workplace, never to intermingle with our professional endeavours. A significant statement on this issue emanates from the Global Workplace Forum, an initiative birthed within the esteemed Lausanne Movement. This assertion resounds with the term 'secular-sacred divide,' a concept that poses a formidable barrier to the full mobilization of God's people in the divine mission. Today, we stand united in categorically denouncing the misguided premises of this divide and its injurious consequences.

The imperative to bridge this perceived chasm between the secular and the sacred cannot be understated. To advance the Kingdom of God in our world, it is incumbent upon us to confront head-on the divisive notion of a schism between work and faith. Our mandate is to dissolve these artificial boundaries and champion the unity of purpose that emerges when our faith infuses every facet of our lives, including our vocations. This indispensable conversation demands our unwavering attention.

Within the framework of Financial Evangelism Ministries, we have committed ourselves to a central mission: the empowerment of believers within the marketplace. We recognize and wholeheartedly endorse the unique and pivotal role that each individual occupies in the collective pursuit of the Great Commission. By embracing the unity of faith and work, we unlock the potential for transformational impact, allowing the radiant light of our beliefs to permeate even the most mundane tasks and professional engagements.

In essence, the call to bridge the secular-sacred divide stands as a clarion call for the entire body of Christ. Together, we endeavor to shatter the misconceptions that hinder our ability to live out our faith authentically in every sphere. As we align ourselves with the divine mandate of unifying our convictions with our actions, we fervently embrace our role as catalysts for change, ambassadors of grace, and conduits of Christ's transformative love within the vast expanse of the marketplace.

Why the Growing Need for Marketplace Believers? The concept of Marketplace Apostles, as eloquently coined by Dr. Peter C. Wagner, unveils a significant paradigm shift within the corporate realm. These individuals are not confined to the conventional roles of ordained preachers or ecclesiastical leaders; instead, they are professionals across various fields who bear the divine responsibility of representing God within the business landscape. This breed of individuals encompasses ordinary entrepreneurs and professionals who are deeply committed to establishing God's divine presence within the realms of commerce.

Their pursuits transcend mere profit and personal gain. Their driving passion is to witness the advancement of God's Kingdom within the marketplace. Dr. Jerry Brandt insightfully shares his perspective, foreseeing the apostolic movement finding its unique expression within the American marketplace. This vision encompasses a dynamic shift where the marketplace itself becomes a conduit for apostolic impact, potentially transcending the confines of traditional ecclesiastical structures.

In his foundational work, "God@Work," Rich Marshall encapsulates seven distinguishing attributes that characterize these Marketplace Apostles: the manifestation of signs and wonders, a display of spiritual authority, the liberation from spiritual bondages, the facilitation of wealth transfer, the attunement to the voice of God, the embodiment of biblical entrepreneurship, and a far-reaching impact spanning nations.

Renowned marketplace expert, Paul Waring, adds depth to this discourse by emphasizing historical precedents. Throughout history, individuals have found fulfillment and worship within legitimate careers and occupations. Drawing inspiration from figures such as John Calvin and Hans Nielsen Hauge, it becomes evident that the convergence of faith and vocation is not a novel concept.

However, a crucial distinction arises in the realm of implementation. The temptation to designate "marketplace apostles" emerges as a potential pitfall. Ephesians 4 underscores that the roles of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher are bestowed as gifts to equip the entire body of believers for the work of ministry. Therefore, the emphasis shifts from appointing singular figures of influence to empowering every believer within their respective vocations.

Ultimately, the crux of the matter revolves around dismantling the secular-sacred divide that has persisted for far too long. The heartbeat of this movement is to commission apostolic individuals within every facet of society – doctors, nurses, teachers, artists, government leaders, and beyond. This transformative understanding recognizes that each believer, irrespective of their role or occupation, is uniquely sent into the marketplace to fulfill their divine calling and contribute to the ongoing work of ministry.

The reformation we fervently seek hinges on the apostolic DNA embedded within every believer, strategically positioned to permeate society with God's transformative love and purpose.

Dr. Peter C. Wagner, in his insightful discourse on wealth transfer, articulates a profound perspective that bears significance for city and regional transformation.

For years, the concept of city transformation has been fervently discussed, prayed for, and prophesied about. Yet, the tangible realization of a transformed city in the U.S.A. remains elusive. The pivotal elements necessary to initiate this transformative journey likely revolve around the presence of fully functioning territorial apostles and marketplace apostles.

In this context, the analogy of gates becomes relevant. The first gate symbolizes the gateway to city and regional transformation. However, the absence of crucial components, specifically territorial and marketplace apostles, has hindered the fulfillment of this vision. The second gate signifies the transference of substantial wealth for the advancement of God's kingdom. While prophecies of unprecedented wealth release have persisted, the delay in its manifestation raises questions. Timing, Dr. Wagner suggests, is a factor. The timing aligns with two essential prerequisites: recognition of the apostolic gift and office, which gained traction in 2001, and the emergence of functioning marketplace apostles, which is still in progress.

The pivotal role of marketplace apostles cannot be understated. They are poised to skillfully manage the resources that God intends to release. This responsibility is crucial, as few traditional church apostles possess the expertise to navigate the complexities of financial stewardship. The absence of skilled management could result in the misdirection of these resources, thwarting their intended purpose of becoming a continuous source of wealth for God's kingdom.

The current state of the body of Christ is characterized by exciting possibilities. The prospect of aligning God's will on earth with that in heaven is awe-inspiring. As our understanding of the significance of the church's presence in the marketplace deepens, we find ourselves positioned as active participants in the impending revival that God is orchestrating. It is within this context that the essence of marketplace ministry takes center stage, underscoring the profound roles that marketplace leaders hold in the unfolding kingdom of God. Their contributions are not merely incidental but play a vital part in shaping the future of God's transformative work.

The Tent Ministry: Embracing Dual Calling and Kingdom Impact In our book, "Decoding the Bezalel Anointing," we strongly contend that God's call doesn't necessitate the abandonment of one's career. Drawing inspiration from the apostle Paul, who skillfully combined his ministry with his tent-making business, we emphasize that it's possible to serve God wholeheartedly while maintaining one's profession. Paul's example highlights the dynamic interplay between vocation and ministry.

Paul's tent-making enterprise neither hindered nor diluted his ministry. Regrettably, some individuals employ their professions as excuses for not fulfilling their divine callings. Modern professionals sometimes cite work commitments to justify their absence or inability to engage fully in God's work. This might manifest in inconsistent church attendance or lateness. Furthermore, their skills and expertise often remain untapped resources within the church.

This behavior is reflective of a lack of understanding regarding the broader purpose of the Kingdom. We assert that the focal point of the Kingdom is salvation and impacting lives. When this profound truth is grasped, it becomes evident that our professions are platforms through which we fulfill our life's ultimate purpose—bringing lost souls to the Kingdom.

The narrative shifts from personal accomplishment to a focus on advancing God's Kingdom. Without this shift in perspective, even the most successful career becomes inconsequential in the grand scheme of God's divine plan. Every facet of our lives, including our careers, can contribute directly and indirectly to the Kingdom's advancement.

True appreciation of our place within the Kingdom and the skills endowed by God enables us to recognize our potential impact. Embracing this perspective sets us apart from unbelievers and grants our professions a higher purpose. To remain Christian professionals, we must undertake larger roles within the Kingdom while striking a harmonious balance between our dual callings.

Proverbs 11:1 (ESV) reminds us, "A false balance is an abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight." As believers, we are called to maintain equilibrium between our earthly vocations and our heavenly mandates. This equilibrium fosters a seamless integration of our professional lives with our call to advance God's Kingdom.

In conclusion, "The Tent Ministry" underscores the synergistic potential of integrating career and ministry. Inspired by the apostle Paul's example, we champion a holistic approach where professions serve as conduits for Kingdom advancement. As Christian professionals, we have a unique opportunity to effect change both within our workplaces and in God's eternal realm. Let us rise to the challenge of harmonizing our callings, for in doing so, we illuminate the path towards a purpose-driven and impactful life.

In our part of the world, very few committed professionals make their skills available in advancing the kingdom. However, elsewhere, believers use their skills to advance the kingdom in practical ways. Ravi Zachariah of blessed memory was an apologetic. He was a reader who could discuss issues from all angles. Through his profession, he won intellectual unbelievers to the kingdom. Apostle Paul also did that a lot. When he spoke to King Agrippa, he was carried away by Paul’s submissions and the king was almost convinced to become a believer. Paul made an impact on the big people. Your profession is a powerful tool for reaching the practitioners of the skill. A Christian lawyer can reach fellow lawyers, judges, politicians, clients and the like to share the gospel with them. Who else should preach to them? A banker must use his profession to reach those in the sector and clients. Your work goes beyond what you’ve been trained to do. Jesus told Peter who was a fisherman that he would become a fisher of men. Therefore, whatever profession you practice, direct it to win souls for the kingdom. Until you get the bigger picture right, you will get every other thing wrong. Jesus Christ was a professional Savior. He came from heaven to the earth to save souls. Hence, all he did was directed at getting men into the kingdom. You can be a writer and the effect should lead people to Christ. This is one thing you can learn from Paul. When he embraced the call, everything that he did was geared towards advancing the kingdom. He did not abandon them.

~Richard Obeng Mensah, Lawyer & Author.

Nurturing Kingdom Advancement through Craft In our book, "Decoding the Bezalel Anointing: Inspiring Lessons for Today's Marketplace Leaders," we fervently emphasize the imperative of leveraging one's craft to tangibly propel the Kingdom of God forward. Drawing from the exemplary life of Bezalel, anointed by God to construct the Tabernacle of Meeting and its sacred implements, we illuminate profound insights. These insights serve as a blueprint for contemporary marketplace believers, guiding them in effectively leading others to Christ and contributing to the expansion of God's Kingdom through marketplace ministry.

Bezalel's journey serves as a compelling case study, illustrating how a divinely anointed individual can infuse their vocational expertise with spiritual purpose. By weaving together, the sacred and the secular, he manifested God's presence in the construction of the Tabernacle—an awe-inspiring structure that facilitated divine communion. Similarly, modern-day marketplace leaders possess the remarkable capacity to employ their crafts as instruments of evangelism and catalysts for Kingdom growth.

Echoing the Apostle Paul's approach, we shed light on the powerful synergy between skill and ministry. Paul's unwavering dedication is encapsulated in his words to the Thessalonians: "Surely you remember, brothers, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you" (1 Thessalonians 2:9 NIV). His tireless efforts exemplify a commitment to self-sufficiency and a refusal to impose burdens on those he sought to guide towards God's grace.

Moreover, Paul's wisdom shines through his strategy of financial independence, as showcased in his letter to the Philippians (Philippians 4:10-19). He masterfully balanced the desire to avoid becoming a financial burden with the understanding that the support of believers nurtured a reciprocal bond of spiritual enrichment.

In essence, "Decoding the Bezalel Anointing" underscores the vital intersection of skill and ministry, as demonstrated by the lives of Bezalel and the Apostle Paul. Just as Bezalel's craftsmanship was dedicated to the divine task of constructing a sacred dwelling place, modern marketplace leaders are called to infuse their professional pursuits with spiritual significance. By harmonizing skill and ministry, believers can harness the transformative potential of their vocations to illuminate paths to Christ and magnify the Kingdom's impact in the world.

As we glean wisdom from Bezalel's anointing and Paul's strategic approach, may we, today's marketplace leaders, be inspired to authentically integrate our crafts with our faith. This harmonious union has the power to shape destinies, illuminate souls, and nurture a flourishing Kingdom—both within the sacred walls of the Tabernacle and throughout the diverse landscapes of today's marketplace.

Thanks for reading.