Introduction
Business as Mission (BAM) is a relatively new term but is based on Biblical concepts. Other expressions often used include ‘transformational business’, ‘great commission companies’ and ‘kingdom business’.
The BAM concept is holistic in nature, believing that God has the power to transform people and communities spiritually, economically, socially and environmentally. The dichotomy between sacred and secular is not Biblical, but this false dichotomy has deeply affected our views on work, business, church and missions.
BAM is a part of a wider global movement, recognizing and responding to God’s call to take the whole gospel to the whole man in the whole world. The applications of BAM may vary from country to country and from business to business.
A definition
Business as Mission is about:
- real, viable, sustainable and profitable businesses;
- with a Kingdom of God purpose, perspective and impact;
- leading to transformation of people and societies spiritually, economically, socially and environmentally,
- to the greater glory of God.
A growing global movement
There are a growing number of national and regional BAM networks and consultations. The Lausanne movement has acknowledged the Biblical imperative and strategic importance of Business as Mission; so has the World Evangelical Alliance Mission Commission. An increasing number of books and articles are being published, churches and mission agencies are developing BAM programs and thousands of business people are on the move, making a difference around the world in and through business.
Global Think Tank
The Lausanne 2004 Forum
Business as Mission Issue Group worked for a year addressing issues relating to God’s purposes for work and business, the role of business people in church and missions, the needs of the world and the potential response of business. The group consisted of more than 70 people from all continents. Most came from a business background but there were also church and mission leaders, educators, theologians, lawyers and researchers. The collaboration process included 60 papers, 25 cases studies, several national and regional Business as Mission consultations and email-based discussions, culminating in a week of face to face dialogue and work. The
report by the think tank (.pdf) - and its
BAM Manifesto - is available on this site.
Mats Tunehag initiated and led the think tank, and he is the Lausanne Senior Associate for BAM.
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