Sample Answer
A Christian Approach to Ethical Investing
As Christians, we are called to be stewards of our resources (Psalm 24:1; Matthew 25:14–30), which includes where and how we invest our money. This means avoiding companies that openly support or profit from practices that violate Biblical principles such as abortion (Psalm 139:13–16), gambling (Proverbs 13:11), and substance abuse (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). While it may be difficult to find firms completely free of all questionable associations, Christians are still encouraged to apply spiritual discernment (Romans 12:2).
Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI) has grown in recent years, with funds that exclude companies involved in activities like tobacco, alcohol, pornography, and abortion. These funds allow Christians to invest while staying aligned with their values (Peifer, 2015). However, complications arise with indirect support, such as government taxes funding morally questionable practices. In this fallen world, complete separation is nearly impossible (1 Corinthians 5:10), but we are still called to personal integrity in choices within our control.
Ultimately, investing is not only a financial decision but a spiritual one. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us to trust God in all decisions. By praying for guidance, researching companies, and possibly consulting Christian financial advisors, we can invest in a way that honours our faith while recognising that we cannot control every external factor.
References:
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Peifer, J. L. (2015). Faith and finance: Understanding religious influences on financial behaviour. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, 54(1), 139-159.
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Biblically Responsible Investing Institute. (2020). Why Christian Investors Should Care.
Response to Classmate A:
I appreciate your point about how hard it can be to completely avoid investing in companies that have some form of unethical practice. You`re right, our globalised economy means most firms are interconnected in complex ways. But I also agree that doing “the best we can” is still meaningful.
Your idea of engaging with companies as shareholders is really interesting. It reminds me of Matthew 5:14–16, we`re called to be light in the world. Some Christian investors do try to bring change from within by voting on shareholder resolutions or communicating with boards of directors. This may be one way to have a positive influence.
However, I also think there’s a risk of moral compromise if we’re not careful. As Christians, our witness matters. Perhaps combining BRI with activism, where possible, is the best of both worlds?
