Explain Bible

What does the Bible say about business ownership?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that owning and leading a business can be a faithful calling when it is done under Christ’s lordship, for God’s glory, and in love of neighbor rather than as an idol. Colossians 3:23-24 calls believers to work wholeheartedly for the Lord, while 1 Corinthians 10:31 directs every lawful endeavor toward God’s glory. Business owners should remember that God gives power to gain wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18), exercise stewardship humbly, and treat employees with justice and dignity. Titus 2:9-12 commends trustworthy service, and Matthew 6:24 warns that money must never become a master. Seek first God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33), conduct all work in Jesus’ name (Colossians 3:17), and keep earthly success subordinate to devotion to Christ.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Colossians 3:23-24

    [23] And whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men, [24] knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:31

    Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

  • Titus 2:9-12

    [9] Exhort servants to be in subjection to their own masters, and to be well-pleasing in all things; not contradicting; [10] not stealing, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God, our Savior, in all things. [11] For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, [12] instructing us to the intent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we would live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world;

  • 2 Timothy 2:1-4

    [1] You therefore, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. [2] The things which you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit the same to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. [3] You therefore must endure hardship, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] No soldier on service entangles himself in the affairs of life, that he may please him who enrolled him as a soldier.

  • Matthew 6:24

    "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You can't serve both God and Mammon.

  • Deuteronomy 8:18

    But you shall remember Yahweh your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth; that he may establish his covenant which he swore to your fathers, as at this day.

  • Colossians 3:17

    Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through him.

  • Matthew 6:33

    But seek first God's Kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well.

Related topics

Go deeper

Ask Explain Bible AI about business ownership and get a fuller answer from a Reformed theological perspective.

Ask what the Bible says about business ownership