Jesus: Businessman, Merchantman, or Head Manager?

It is a beautiful question to ponder whether Jesus was a businessman, and while the Bible and inspired writings don't explicitly call Him a "businessman" in the modern sense, they reveal that His divine nature and mission are often expressed through parables and principles that touch on business concepts, emphasizing spiritual values over worldly gain. He is the ultimate "Heavenly Merchantman" and "Head Manager" of the work of God. 💎

Jesus as the Heavenly Merchantman

Jesus Himself used the analogy of a merchantman to illustrate the immense value of the kingdom of heaven and the truth. In the parable of the pearl of great price, He describes a merchant who, upon finding one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it Matthew 13:45-461SM 399.1+7. This profound parable highlights the spiritual "transaction" where individuals are called to give up everything worldly for the invaluable treasure of salvation and the righteousness of Christ. This "pearl of great price" represents salvation, which is described as pure, white, and without defect or stain, attainable through the sacrifice of God's only begotten Son John 3:161SM 399.1+1.

Furthermore, Jesus is depicted as walking before our doors, crying, "Buy of me gold, and white raiment, and eye-salve"RH July 16, 1889, par. 9+1. This imagery portrays Him as a divine merchant offering spiritual riches that far surpass any earthly treasuresARSH November 6, 1860, page 194.10.

Jesus as the Head Manager of God's Work

While not a "businessman" in the earthly sense, Jesus is unequivocally the supreme "Head Manager" of God's work12LtMs, Lt 77, 1897, par. 19. The spiritual health of the church is directly linked to its adherence to true educational principles, just as national prosperity depends on its schools. God's purpose is to prepare workers for His kingdom, which requires a simple line of work focused on spiritual preparation rather than worldly studiesGCB April 2, 1901, page 15.13. The Bible itself serves as the sole textbook, emphasizing its importance in preparing individuals for the Lord's workGCDB February 23, 1899, page 67.1.

The inspired writings also emphasize that God desires His institutions to be managed by those who fear Him and hate covetousnessARSH July 7, 1863, page 45.2. While ministers are to be free for preaching and evangelism, financial matters are to be overseen by capable business people9MR 169.1+6. This shows a clear distinction between the spiritual ministry and the practical management, yet all under the ultimate guidance of Christ.

Principles of Righteous Business from a Divine Perspective

The principles Jesus embodies and teaches are the foundation for righteous business conduct. Worldly business policies, often driven by selfish gain and the idea that "the end justifies the means," are contrasted sharply with God's methodsPM 82.2. The Lord expects business to be conducted with justice, equity, and strict fidelity to truth, ensuring that no one's rights are invadedPM 82.2+1. Increase of property gained through unjust means is considered a curse10LtMs, Ms 11, 1895, par. 7.

The life of Daniel serves as a powerful example of a statesman and a "businessman" who was instructed by God at every step. His business transactions were without flaw, even under the closest scrutiny of his enemies, demonstrating that a consecrated heart and right motives can lead to success in worldly enterprises while upholding divine principlesSPCCSR 65.1+1. This shows that Christian principles can, and should, permeate all lawful callingsAUCR June 1, 1900, par. 26.

Distinction Between Worldly Business and Divine Purpose

It is made clear that individuals should not become "purely worldly businessmen," absorbed in responsibilities that crowd out higher duties and lead to a dependence on those outside the faith6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 25. The focus should always be on serving the Lord in every aspect of life, recognizing that Christianity encompasses all activities Colossians 3:17SITI October 17, 1895, page 643.34. If one is not serving the Lord in their business, they are not serving Him at allSITI October 17, 1895, page 643.34.

This perspective encourages individuals, regardless of their profession—whether mechanics, lawyers, merchants, or farmers—to develop their talents in the direction of serving the Lord, manifesting as much tact and ability in working for the upbuilding of Christ's cause as they would in worldly enterprisesCCh 68.3+2.

In conclusion, while Jesus was not a "businessman" in the conventional sense, His teachings and the descriptions of His role use business analogies to convey profound spiritual truths. He is the ultimate source of true wealth and the discerning "Heavenly Merchantman" who counsels us to "buy of Him gold tried in the fire"SpTA01a 7.3+1. He leads and manages His work through principles of righteousness, urging His followers to conduct their affairs in a manner that glorifies God and reflects His character10LtMs, Ms 11, 1895, par. 7.