More Than Tentmakers
The term “tentmaking” originates from the Apostle Paul, who supported his ministry to the Gentiles through the tent-making trade. In Acts 18:3, it says, “Because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked, for by occupation they were tentmakers.” Historically, this term has been used to describe small trades or vocations pursued alongside ministry, often in the context of overseas missions or local church leadership.
However, today’s pastors are more than tentmakers—they are Biblical Entrepreneurs. Some pastors seamlessly integrate ministry and business in a way that sometimes blurs the line between where business ends and ministry begins. They do not view their trade or vocation merely as a means of provision for ministry but rather as an integral part of their ministry itself.
At the upcoming EC Global Forum on Church Growth and Sustainability, we will feature four senior pastors who lead local churches while also building Kingdom companies. These enterprises not only meet market needs but also serve as tools for advancing the Great Commission and the Great Commandment.
Click on the button below to register for the Global Forum to learn more about how these pastors are successfully blending ministry with business in partnership with the Nehemiah Sustainable Church Initiatives.
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Pastor Marc Estes, Senior Pastor of Mannahouse, a multi-site church based in Oregon and Washington, is also the co-founder of VisitorReach, an innovative app designed to help churches connect with newcomers and spiritual seekers in their local communities. Through technology, VisitorReach facilitates meaningful conversations and contributes to the growth of vibrant spiritual communities.
Pastor Soorin Backer, founding pastor of Thrive Faith Community in Eugene, Oregon, is also an author, international speaker, and the founder of Soorin Backer Ministries. She organizes the annual Power and Hope Conference, equipping believers to live out their divine identity. Additionally, Soorin co-founded Nabi Media Productions, a film production company that is adapting her book “Women In Jesus’ Life” into movies and streaming series.
Bishop Allen Wiggins Senior Pastor of The Hope Church at Hope Center West in Orlando, Florida, leads a family-oriented ministry aimed at equipping members to live out their God-given visions. Hope Center West, a “Live, Work, Learn, Play, and Worship” community, spans over 50 acres and includes The Village Square Mall, a business incubator housing over 25 small businesses. Bishop Wiggins also led the effort to eliminate a food desert in the community, bringing in national brands like Walmart Neighborhood Market and 7-Eleven to create jobs and transform the area.
Pastor Victor Pena, Senior Pastor of Lux Church in Richmond, Virginia, leads a church dedicated to spreading the hope of Jesus Christ. In addition to his pastoral role, Pastor Manny co-founded both a cleaning company and a property development business that transforms underutilized properties into valuable real estate.
These pastors have mastered the art of blending entrepreneurship and ministry, creating Kingdom enterprises that provide for their families, serve as economic engines for ministry, and expand their reach beyond the four walls of the church. They are carrying out ministry both inside and outside the church, using business as a platform to advance God’s Kingdom.
For more great articles that provide you with insights to help you with your entrepreneurship journey from discovery to succession, click HERE to view the Nehemiah Entrepreneurship Community’s library of Kingdom Business Leaders Resources.
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