Anointed for Business: How Christians Can Use Their Places of Influence to Make a Profound Impact on the World

Silvoso does a wonderful job of dispelling myths about ministry and the marketplace, and offers both hope and courageously practical guidance. His audience is those working in the marketplace wanting to have an impact on the Kingdom. The book starts out with a bit about Ed's own story, then he takes a close look at the relationship between the marketplace and Jesus, the disciples, and early church. He makes the point well that all business, indeed all the systems of the world, are under the reign of God's kingdom. Christians in the marketplace are properly called ministers if they are serving God and serving others with the right heart and in the power of the Spirit. Chapters 8 and 9 are particularly well written, as he discusses the different ways in which Christians have chosen to live and act within the marketplace, and sets some clear goals and a pathway to be all that God has called us to be in this sphere. I wasn't sure what to expect from the book given the title, but this quote on page 33 describes what he means by anointed for business: "To be anointed for business is to be set aside by God for service in the marketplace. Once anointed, we are to use our job as a ministry vehicle to transform the marketplace so that the gospel will be preached to, and heard by, every creature in our sphere of influence. The same principle applies in all areas of the marketplace: business, education and government." While the book is of particular interest to business owners and leaders, it really is for every single worker in the marketplace - "It does not matter where you find yourself in the marketplace today. What is important is that you embrace your calling to transform that place by using the power that God has made available to you" (pg 136). Ultimately the author calls us to embrace our marketplace setting, care for the people there, serve them and others as if serving God, and bring the transformation that God desires. I would recommend this book strongly for any Christian in the workplace, as well as their church leaders.

I came across this book while burning some time in a Tampa Christian bookstore last Summer. After I read the blurbs on the back and skimmed the book a bit, I decided to buy it. What I found interesting is how the author portrays Christians, Jesus and wealth. I think many of us "traditionally" think the apostles and Jesus where generally poor. I think this again comes from "traditional" thought of wealth being "evil." Wealth in and of itself is not evil. Do we see our identity in our wealth? Do we see it as a gift from God to be shared trusting He will replenish it? Does wealth control us? This book showed me Jesus and the apostles actually had earthly wealth and great spiritual resources Why wouldn't they? The apostles were with Jesus, the son of the living God incarnate, who created everything. I also find the author puts out a challenge to take God into the marketplace. I agree with him. Too many Christians leave their Christianity behind; they mistakenly believe it has no place in business. I believe the business world is a fertile field for Christians. I would highly recommend this book.

Ed Silvoso zeros in on the missing link between knowing the written Word and living it. He brings home meaning and purpose in our everyday lives and how we impact our society in the workplace. What I liked most is that it puts Christians in all walks of life on an equal footing with those considered the "full-time" Christian workers. Christians are all called to be full timers for God and every workplace becomes our parrish, a holy calling. Silvoso, is not heavy in theology, just clear and practical. He hits us where we live today. I recommend this book to everyone who desires a more productive lifestyle for God.

I've read some pretty terrible books on this very topic. Anointed For Business, however, is different. It is an incredibly easy read, yet at the same time very liberating. Pardon the cliche, but it is just so true: every Christian needs to read this book. As I got deeper and deeper into the chapters, I felt a very heavy burden of guilt being lifted off my soul. The Lord has set me free through this book, and through Ed Silvoso, has given me a renewed purpose in life. I really can't stress enough how important this book is to any Christian even slightly interested in business - or even "full time ministry" for that matter. Every person that reads this book is delivering a heavy blow to satan's deceptions and attempt to strangle the kingdom of God out of our most important aspects of society.

Ed Silvoso presents numerous life changing principles in a clear and concise way. His writing style is enjoyable to read with a good smattering of real-life examples. I would highly recommend for anyone at any level of business.