The market place is the interface of the world; it's an environment where the lives of people are influenced in many ways. Jesus said of those who choose to follow him, "you're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavours of this earth." He anticipates that the profound transformation experienced in discovering the ways of God will result in the reality of a kingdom-of-God lifestyle that influences others towards conformity to the will of God.

God has chosen to reveal his wisdom in all its rich variety of ways through the church. Since the diversity of skills, interests, and involvement of members of the church matches the variety of activities in the market place, the church is able to contribute in every level of society by applying the principles of God's wisdom to everyday life situations. Each of us can make a meaningful contribution towards justice, peace and happiness in our families, work places, communities, the city, our nation and the world.



Key 'Influencers' texts:
Deuteronomy 4:5-8 (NIV) : "See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the Lord my God commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land you are entering to take possession of it.  Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, "Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people."  What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to Him?  And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?"

Acts 17:26-27 (NIV) : "He determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us."

1 Peter 2:12 (NIV) : "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us."

Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV): "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

Applied Biblical Values

Macro Economic Principles - as researched by Craig Elliott & Ian McKellar (PLEASE NOTE: These are Craig's notes which have not yet been formatted in their final form, but have been included to help give an idea of the kind of practical application of God's Word that can be achieved if we will prayerfully consider our daily life situations in the context of God's wise counsel)

Available Resources

Anointed for Business by Ed Silvoso How Christians can use their influence in the Market Place to change the world

The Life@Work Book 16 respected leaders talk about blending biblical wisdom and business excellence

God's Plan for Prosperity by Mark Gorman A balanced perspective on financial wealth

Taming The Money Monster by Ron Blue Five steps to conquering debt

Money, Sex and Power by Richard Foster The spiritual disciplines of poverty, chastity, and obedience

Ethical Anchors by Stephen Graves, Thomas Addington, & Sean Womack Offering insight into maintaining integrity in the workplace by setting ethical standards

The Peacemaker by Ken Sande A Biblical Guide to resolving personal conflict

The Cereal Tycoon by Joe Musser A biography of Henry Parson Crowell (book review)

DVD of Billy Graham - God's Ambassador

Should you wish to find out more, or access any of the resources, you can contact Duncan through the contact page.