An external perspective of higher purpose is to serve God, not to pursue material possessions or money. The Bible encourages us to use our God-given talents to help others and make rational economic decisions by valuing private property, being good stewards and holding people accountable. Above all else, Christian principles compel us to make moral and ethical decisions that serve society and elevate humanity through service to others, for we are all created in God’s image.
So then each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. Romans 14:12, ESV
Christians aspire to serve others and to help those in need. Capitalism with a Christian worldview is simply business with an external perspective to serve others. This perspective advocates that a company ought to articulate their higher purpose and have ethical leadership under which decisions are made to help all stakeholders. Such businesses will create employment opportunities and help communities develop with improved school systems and healthcare access. But for all this to happen, value must be created, revenue must be generated, and innovation and entrepreneurial freedom must be fostered by society. Everyone benefits by getting behind such an initiative.
Capitalism simply allows the free market principles of human cooperation, ethical decision-making, voluntary exchange, open competition and access to markets to elevate the human condition. Economic freedom will lead to prosperity and human flourishing, promote love toward others and encourage helping those in need.
The Christian case for free market capitalism incorporates the complexity of an economic system based on social cooperation and free will — that is, individuals making ethical choices that promote creative solutions to society’s problems. Economic freedom incentivizes people to pursue their talents and earn their own abundance. That is our purpose: to help create a better world by living out our faith through creating value, being good stewards to society and lifting others up.
Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed. Proverbs 19:17, ESV
If you are interested in learning more about business or Christianity, consider Grand Canyon University’s campus or online degree programs. GCU’s Colangelo College of Business helps students to develop their understanding of servant leadership and conscious capitalism. For more information, click on the Request Info button at the top of your screen.
Retrieved from:
1Smith, A. (1976) An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations (p. 96). (LibertyClassics ed.) Oxford University Press
2McKinsey & Company, Redefining Capitalism in September 2021
3Grudem, W. & Asmus, B (2013). The poverty of nations: a sustainable solution. Crossway publishing, pp. 131-132.
4Conscious Capitalism Arizona Chapter, About Conscious Capitalism Arizona in September 2021