Trade

<<buy and sell>>

Buying and selling is the basic principle of commerce practiced throughout the world. Many people are employed in the consumer market, making and supplying what others want, need or demand. Solomon extolled a wife of noble character who was adept at various forms of business, trading and acting astutely in the affairs of life (Prov 31:13-18). In the parable of the talents, Jesus spoke of those who traded by investing what had been entrusted to them, gained an increase and were commended for their wise actions that required ingenuity and consistent effort (Mt 25:14-30).

Making a fair profit is expected and right, while an excessive markup and exploiting or taking advantage of those who can least afford it is wrong (Deut 24:14; Prov 22:22). Accuracy and honesty should be the hallmarks of all commercial transactions with the resulting goodwill ensuring ongoing business, as we do right in the sight of all men.

Character is revealed in the commercial arena

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. He will reward you” (Col 3:23,24). Remember that what we sow we will ultimately reap and will be held accountable to God for (Prov 11:1; Rom 14:12; 2 Cor 8:21; Gal 6:7).

Until Christ returns we “...must work, doing something useful”, making an honest living and so providing for those whom we are responsible for (Eph 4:28; 1 Tim 5:8). Paul used his occupational trade as a tent maker to financially support himself while still ministering the gospel (hence the term ‘tent maker’). This was also the trade of Aquila (Act 18:3).

Besides having integrity in the commercial world, Christians should also operate by the Kingdom principle of freely giving and humbly receiving as supply and needs dictate. Sensitive loving interdependency rather than being self-sufficient or having a cold monetary approach, should characterize God’s people.

Jesus also reminded His listeners that life consists of more than buying and selling. There are other issues to consider (Lk 12:15-21). He accused the religious leaders of making God’s house a place of trade and commercialism rather than a place of worship and prayer (Jn 2:14-16). Where do my priorities lie?

During the period of the great tribulation in the end times people will be required to have the mark of the beast on their forehead or right hand to enable them to buy and sell (Rev 13:16,17).