“Marketplace ministry typically refers to evangelism or other Christian activities that are targeted towards the secular workplace, as opposed to homes, churches, or specialized venues. The term probably entered circulation in the 1980s. The term “Marketplace Ministry” does include ‘evangelism’ however it is much broader than that. It speaks to the fact that any Christian can fulfill their desire to serve God in the workplace. This can assuage a lot of guilt in those that want to “go into full-time ministry” as they realize they are already in “full-time” ministry.” wikipedia.org

When I started work at Medtronic in 2003 I had never heard the term “marketplace ministry”. I only knew that I loved Jesus and my desire was to be a person of faith wherever I went – including at my job. Recovering from my fourth career dislocation I had asked God to use me wherever He sent me next.

In my small mind, I had envisioned an opportunity to share my faith with another individual in the same way God had allowed me to at my previous job. God had much bigger plans than I could have ever imagined. Only a few weeks after I started my new job the company announced a new Christian employee group. I met amazing men and women devoted to serving God and being followers of Jesus Christ in the workplace through this newly organized and sanctioned group. This is where I first learned that there are many believers in the workplace who are intentional about bringing faith to the workplace.

Why?

As a believer in Jesus Christ, why is it important for me to know about marketplace ministry? More importantly, why is it important for me to bring my faith to my workplace? I believe the answer is simple and is universally relevant to all who believe in Christ as their Savior. It is found in the Great Commission.

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:16-20 (NIV)

I strongly agree with the statement in the definition above that says anyone can fulfill his or her purpose and call to ministry in the everyday interactions in the workplace.

Where?

Marketplace ministry is happening everywhere. You can bring it to your workplace whether or not you are part of an organized Christian employee group. It only takes one person to start a workplace group. Is God calling you to be the first in your workplace?