By Nelson Semanu BOANDOH-KORKOR & Elizabeth BOANDOH-KORKOR
Welcome back! Last week, we began exploring a list of biblical bivocational ministers. In this article, we’ll continue the journey and complete the list, providing more examples of individuals who combined ministry with other occupations.
- Lady Susanna as a pastor in business
Susanna emerges as a significant figure among the women who contributed financially to Jesus’ ministry, as documented in Luke 8:1-3.
The scriptural account in Luke 8:1-3 paints a vivid picture: “In due course, as Jesus traversed every city and village, proclaiming the joyful tidings of the kingdom of God, the twelve apostles accompanied Him. Also in their midst were certain women who had been liberated from malevolent spirits and afflictions.
Among them was Mary, known as Magdalene, from whom seven demons had been expelled. Another was Joanna, the wife of Chuza, a steward in Herod’s service. Additionally, there was Susanna, along with numerous others, who extended their support by contributing from their own resources.”
This depiction highlights Susanna’s active participation in nurturing Jesus’ mission through her financial contributions. Moreover, intriguing speculation revolves around her potential connection to Joseph of Arimathea, a prosperous merchant renowned for his ownership of an extensive fleet of ships. He is noted as a secret disciple of Jesus. This association adds depth to Susanna’s role, suggesting a network of committed supporters working in harmony to advance Jesus’ cause.
- Lady Lydia as a pastor in business
Lydia of Thyatira was a pioneering entrepreneur and devout believer. You can describe her as a tent-minister or pastor in business.
Lydia, a pioneering European convert and shrewd businesswoman, specialized in the trade of luxurious purple fabrics, which was highly prized in her time. Originally from Thyatira, a renowned center for the indigo trade, she established herself in Philippi. It was here, during Paul’s second missionary journey, that their paths crossed. Her expertise in purple cloth hints at her extensive trade network and connections.
In Acts 16:11-15, the Bible recounts their encounter: “From Troas, we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day to Neapolis. From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days. On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer.
We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. ‘If you consider me a believer in the Lord,’ she said, ‘come and stay at my house.’ And she persuaded us.”
Lydia’s entrepreneurial success is evident in her ownership of a home in Philippi, where she conducted business, and potentially another in her hometown of Thyatira (modern-day Turkey). Notably, she opened her home to missionaries, leading to her own salvation. Her passion for both business and ministry intertwined as she fervently urged Paul to stay with her during his journey.
Lydia’s story is a testament to her multifaceted nature—a savvy businesswoman, a devout believer, and a generous host. Her legacy continues to inspire, showcasing how entrepreneurial acumen and unwavering faith can significantly contribute to the spread of the Gospel.
- Priscilla and Aquilla as bivocational ministers
We could actually describe Priscilla and Aquila as bi-vocational power couples of the early church marketplace.
Priscilla and her husband Aquila encountered the Apostle Paul in Corinth around 50 C.E., forming a deep bond through shared travels and ministry. However, their story begins in 49 C.E. when Emperor Claudius expelled Jews from Rome, including them. They settled in Corinth, establishing a successful leather goods business (Acts 18:2). By the time they met Paul, they were already devoted followers of Jesus.
Together, they accompanied Paul to Ephesus, supporting the growing congregation. There, they mentored the eloquent preacher Apollos on the gospel’s teachings (Acts 18:26). After Claudius’ decree was reversed, they returned to Rome (Romans 16:3-4).
The New Testament mentions them six times as a united pair, holding influential positions in early churches and earning deep respect. Their collaborative partnership exemplifies early church ministry (Romans 16:7; 1 Corinthians 9:5). Paul called them “partners” in spreading the Gospel, praising their courage and noting how congregations met in their homes (Romans 16:5; 1 Corinthians 16:19).
This dynamic duo also thrived as entrepreneurs. Priscilla, a savvy businesswoman with a deep understanding of spiritual matters, actively supported Paul’s ministry. Historical records show her prominence (Acts 16:26; 18:18; Romans 16:3; 2 Timothy 4:9). Aquila, meaning “eagle,” journeyed from Pontus to Rome, practicing tentmaking, a common trade for emancipated slaves, similar to Paul.
- Philemon as a tentmaker in the early church
Philemon was a prominent figure in the early Christian community in Colossae, a wealthy Christian and a friend and convert of the Apostle Paul. He is best known for his role in the New Testament letter addressed to him by Paul, concerning his runaway slave Onesimus.
Philemon was a man of means, likely owning property and slaves, including Onesimus. His house was large enough to host a church gathering, indicating his wealth and influence in the community. He was also a respected member of the Colossian church, possibly a leader or elder, as Paul addresses him as a “fellow worker” (Philemon 1:1). Philemon’s hospitality and generosity are evident in the fact that Paul had previously stayed in his home, showcasing his support for fellow believers.
It’s important to note that Philemon was a slave owner, a common practice among the wealthy during that time. However, Paul’s letter challenges Philemon to view Onesimus not as property, but as a brother in Christ. Philemon’s servant, Onesimus, had fled to Rome after stealing from him.
There, Onesimus encountered Paul and became a Christian under his guidance. Paul wrote to Philemon, urging him to welcome Onesimus back, not as a slave, but as a brother. Philemon, along with his family, resided in Colossae, and the local church met in his home. This suggests his significant wealth, which he used to support the church in Colossae. Paul’s letter to the Colossians, written concurrently with the letter to Philemon, further emphasizes Philemon’s important role in the early church.
- Lady Dorcas as a pastoral entrepreneur
In the early days of the church, Lady Dorcas stands out for her compassionate heart and selfless deeds as a bi-vocational minister.
Her dedication to good works was so remarkable that upon her passing, people yearned for her return to life. She actively supported the church in Joppa, generously contributing from her resources. Yet, her significance extended beyond mere financial means – she played a pivotal role in financing the advancement of God’s kingdom. This serves as a profound lesson for aspiring kingdom entrepreneurs.
The story of Dorcas continues to inspire countless individuals, brimming with valuable lessons that hold particular relevance today. Dorcas resided in Joppa, a coastal town on the Mediterranean, a prominent port in Palestine during that era (compare Jonah 1:3; Acts 10:5-8).
A Christian community thrived in Joppa, and it’s plausible that believers gathered for worship and prayer within Dorcas’s home, as was customary in that period (Acts 12:12; Romans 16:5). Though little is known about her, one thing remains clear – she was a devoted kingdom financier, impacting both those within and outside the church through her benevolent actions. Her compassionate heart for the kingdom and people drew many to the Lord.
“At Joppa, a disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas, resided. This woman was renowned for her philanthropy and acts of kindness. However, during that time, she fell ill and passed away. After preparing her body, they laid her in an upper room. Hearing that Peter was in nearby Lydda, the disciples urgently sent two men to implore his swift arrival. Peter responded and accompanied them to the upper room.
As he entered, he was met by widows who tearfully displayed the tunics and garments Dorcas had crafted while she was alive. Peter dismissed everyone, knelt in prayer, and then turned to the body, saying, ‘Tabitha, arise.’ Miraculously, she opened her eyes and, upon seeing Peter, sat up. Extending his hand, Peter lifted her, and he summoned the saints and widows, presenting her alive. The news spread throughout Joppa, leading many to place their faith in the Lord. Consequently, Peter stayed in Joppa for an extended period, at the home of Simon, a tanner.” ~Acts 9:36-43 NKJV
- Gaius as a pastor in business
We are aware that the name Gaius is mentioned in some portions of scripture. For example, Gaius of Macedonia is mentioned in Acts 19:29. He was one of Paul’s travel companions who faced danger during a riot in Ephesus instigated by silversmiths who felt threatened by the spread of Christianity. Then, we have Gaius of Derbe who is also mentioned in Acts 20:4 as a companion of Paul who traveled with him on his third missionary journey.
Gaius, the host of Paul is mentioned in Romans 16:23, Paul refers to a Gaius who hosted him and the whole church. This Gaius is likely a prominent member of the Christian community, possibly in Corinth, where Paul wrote the letter to the Romans.
The last is the Gaius to whom the Third Epistle of John is addressed (3 John 1:1). This is the person we are interested in here. He is praised for his hospitality and faithfulness to the truth. Gaius is also commended for welcoming and supporting traveling teachers and missionaries, which was crucial for the spread of early Christianity.
The primary intent of the third letter of John is to commend Gaius, a dedicated and engaged layman of substantial means, for his Christian hospitality. He generously hosted traveling Christian preachers, aiding them in their missions and actively participating in spreading the Gospel. Gaius exemplified the role of a financial evangelist, utilizing his wealth to advance the work of God.
“From the Elder, To my beloved Gaius, whom I hold in genuine affection: Beloved, my earnest prayer is that you prosper in all aspects and maintain good health, just as your inner being flourishes. I was filled with immense joy when fellow brethren came and affirmed the authenticity that resides within you, witnessing your steadfast commitment to truth. Nothing brings me greater delight than learning that those under my care remain devoted to the path of truth.
Beloved, your dedication extends faithfully not only to the brethren but also to strangers. They have shared accounts of your love before the entire assembly. If you support these individuals on their journeys in a manner befitting of God, you will indeed excel.
Their mission bears His name, and they have refrained from seeking aid from those outside the faith. It is our responsibility, therefore, to welcome such individuals, thus joining hands as co-laborers in the pursuit of truth.” 3 John 1:1-3 NKJV
The examples of individuals in scripture and in contemporary times who serve as pastors in business are numerous and inspiring. This list is merely a starting point to whet your appetite and encourage you to explore this concept further.
We trust that learning about the lives of these individuals who exemplify the concept of a pastor in business or a bi-vocational minister will empower you to either expand your current efforts or embark on your own journey today! Let their stories ignite your passion and demonstrate the possibilities that await you as you combine your calling to ministry with your entrepreneurial spirit.
For further study on this subject, kindly get a copy of our book: Pastors In Business: Thriving As A Bivocational Minister; Strategic Keys To Success.
Nelson Semanu Boandoh-Korkor is a distinguished figure, acclaimed as an Author, Publishing Consultant, Christian Business Coach, and a fervent Financial Evangelist. Nelson is a forex trader, cryptocurrency investor and metaverse enthusiast.
Elizabeth Boandoh-Korkor (CA) is an accomplished Chartered Accountant with extensive experience as a Financial Management Consultant, spanning close to two decades in both the not-for-profit and banking sectors. You can reach out to them on +233549762233 or [email protected]
