Summary:
Let me begin by saying that Wayne Grudem is my favorite author. I became fond of his writing after reading his "Systematic Theology", but this book has definitely contributed to why I appreciate him. This is a short but dense book, and this is how I would personally summarize Grudem's goal in writing this book: to explain that business and many business activities are fundamentally good and glorifying to God. However, business and business activities (like all good things) come with associated temptations.
Grudem asks readers to keep two main points in mind throughout the book that will help be a guide to his arguments for the remainder of the book. These two fundamental points are (1) that God is glorified when we imitate His attributes, and (2) that glorifying God and imitating His attributes should never lead to sin.
With these points in mind, Grudem discusses 9 aspects of business in 9 subsequent chapters: (1) Ownership, (2) Productivity, (3) Employment, (4) Commercial Transactions (buying and selling), (5) Profit, (6) Money, (7) Inequality of Possessions, (8) Competition, (9) Borrowing and lending. He uses many Scriptural passages to essentially conclude that each of these activities at a fundamental level is good and glorifying to God. He also explains what types of temptations are associated with each of these activities and why Christian culture sometimes views these activities in a negative manner.
He concludes the book by stressing the importance of our attitude in anything we do, for even good deeds are not good if done with a wrong heart. He also concludes by explaining how business is required for a long-term solution to extreme poverty across the globe.
Things I liked about the book:
Grudem does not take lightly what Scripture says, and it is very evident in this book. The book is packed full of Scriptural passages and references. Readers are not left wondering whether or not the Bible really says what Grudem claims it says, for he references Scripture in all his arguments.
"Business for the Glory of God" is written very logically. Following along with Grudem's arguments is very simple task, for he writes so eloquently yet so concisely. Readers are not lost in long-winded sentences, and they are not confused by the lack of valid argument. Readers may choose not to agree with Grudem's conclusions (although, I would hope you would), but that would not be due to not understanding his arguments.
Things I did not like about the book:
The only thing I can point out that I did not necessarily like about the book is that it was short! I am sure this was intentional and effective in explaining points concisely. However, I loved reading it and wished there was more of it to read.
Quote:
"Are things like profit, competition, money, and ownership of possessions always tainted with evil? Or are they merely morally neutral things that can be used for good or for evil? In contrast to those two views, this book will argue that they are all fundamentally good things that God has given to the human race, but that they all carry many temptations to misuse and wrong-doing." (emphasis is part of original quote)
Final Thoughts:
I think anyone, Christian or non-Christian, can appreciate and learn from this book. Grudem successfully demonstrates that God cares about business and that business is done with integrity and for His glory. I give this book a 5 out of 5 and recommend it to anyone, especially those in the business world!
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Top reviews from other countries
tellyoulater
Business for the Glory of God not only sets the ...
Reviewed in Canada on May 10, 2016
Geoff Cook
Excellent primer on God's purpose for business
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 20, 2013