Question: What is the biblical response to being “unequally yoked” in business? We have been given the opportunity to do business with a person who operates under the same moral principles as we do, even though he does not profess to be a Christian. He is open to the gospel but has not publicly confessed Christ. We would love to receive any information about it. Our desire is to glorify God in our lives.
Thank you for this very important and practical question. From the time the apostle Paul exhorted the Corinthians not to be unequally yoked, believers have debated the applications of his words. There is universal agreement that:
- By following Jesus, believers must leave all idolatry and immorality related to paganism. There is no room for syncretism (Col 2:6-10);
- believers do not marry non-believers. If husbands or wives are already married, they should point their partner and children to Christ in prayer (1 Cor 7:39);
- believers must be aware of the spiritual forces arrayed against them and fully apply the resources of the gospel to avoid compromise and enslavement (2 Cor 10:1-6; Eph 6:10-20).
By warning us against worldliness, Paul also reminds us to interact with believers; No we are called to withdraw from commitments in the real world. Paul the apostle was also Paul the tentmaker, and his clientele almost certainly included unbelievers. In fact, Jesus makes it clear to us that we are salt and light (Mt 5:13-16), visibly displaying the good works of the kingdom to a watching audience. The parables of the mustard seed and the yeast (Mt 13:31-33) further illustrate the positive influences believers can have wherever God places them.
So how do we apply the teachings of Jesus and Paul to modern business and commerce? What are the limits of contracts, partnerships and other relationships in which assets are intertwined?
Here are three ideas under the category of prudential and informed wisdom. They are not legal absolutes, as each person should prayerfully consult the scriptures and listen to the Holy Spirit before entering any field of work.
1. Values aligned with the Bible
First, for a believer to partner with non-believers, the company’s values and vision, products and practices must be consistent with biblical ethics. An example: love of neighbor through excellent customer service.
For a believer to associate with non-believers, the company’s values and vision, products and practices must be consistent with biblical ethics.
One of my friends is a Christian venture capitalist who has successfully run several projects with an Indian partner. He insists on the golden rule as a guide for investors, employers and all facets of the contract.
A few years ago, a Christian international banker was completing a major multi-billion dollar deal. At the last minute, one party demanded an additional $250,000 “administrative fee.” The banker said no and the deal fell through. (There were already a lot of fees in the agreement as written.) Many colleagues criticized his decision, calling such bribery “the cost of doing business.” The believing banker wondered if he would have a job after this public debacle. Weeks later, his boss walked into the office and asked in a booming voice, “Where’s my honest banker?” Fear turned to surprise when he was promoted by his unbelieving boss.
2. A way out
Partnership agreements must contain language that allows for the separation and exchange of assets and liabilities if the two (or more) parties cannot work together. Outside of very rare and trusted circumstances, “on paper, by the way” it is wise to have this outlet for all business dealings, whether they include believers or not.
3. A wise advice
It is important to seek the Holy Spirit and the advice of wise colleagues about business opportunities and potential partners. We serve a wonderful Lord who gives abundant wisdom to the humble (James 1:5-7). We must “cry and raise our voice” and “seek and procure” wisdom (Prov 2). Don’t neglect the wisdom of trusted believers in your community, including your church elders. Romans 14 says that we must exercise our freedom with a clear conscience. There are always risks in business and nervousness is normal, but don’t go ahead if there is deep restlessness in your heart.
Don’t neglect the wisdom of trusted believers in your community, including your church elders
In my four decades of pastoral service, I rarely saw business leaders who were intentional and disciplined, prayerful and principled, mired in legal or personal problems. Those who rushed to seize opportunities with just a handshake and a brief prayer often experienced difficult lessons.
We do not have guaranteed success in the world, but we can offer our work as worship and seeking to please our Lord (Ro 12:1-2; Col 3:17-23).
Originally posted on . Translated by Team Coalition.