Overview: Marketplace Christianity: Discovering the Kingdom Purpose of the Marketplace
Author: Robert Fraser
Published: 2006
🌟 Purpose of the Book:
This book challenges the idea that “ministry” only happens within churches or missions. Instead, Fraser argues that God has a purpose for believers in the marketplace—in business, government, education, media, and all spheres of secular influence.
His central message is that the marketplace is not a distraction from God's work—it is God's work.
🔑 Key Themes:
1. Marketplace Calling is Ministry
The workplace is a mission field and a strategic platform for advancing the Kingdom of God.
Christians are not second-class citizens in the faith if they’re not pastors or missionaries.
Business, entrepreneurship, and leadership are sacred callings with eternal purpose.
2. The Seven Mountains Mandate (Implied)
While not always explicitly named, Fraser aligns with the idea that believers should influence all major areas of culture: business, government, media, education, family, religion, and arts.
3. Kingdom Economics
The book promotes a Kingdom-centered view of wealth: not prosperity gospel, but stewardship.
Believers are called to use resources strategically to transform cities and nations, not just accumulate wealth for comfort.
4. Spiritual Authority in the Marketplace
Christians in business can exercise spiritual authority through integrity, prayer, discernment, and godly strategy.
Being led by the Holy Spirit in business decisions has just as much power as being led in ministry decisions.
5. Breaking the Sacred-Secular Divide
The church often separates "holy work" from "secular work." Fraser dismantles this thinking and helps readers see all work as worship when done unto God.
💬 Notable Quotes:
“The marketplace is not a distraction from the Kingdom of God—it is central to it.”
“God is looking for Josephs and Daniels—marketplace leaders who carry wisdom and prophetic insight into the halls of power.”
🧩 Who This Book Is For:
Christian business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors
Believers feeling torn between their spiritual and vocational lives
Church leaders wanting to empower their congregation to serve outside the four walls
✝️ Biblical Examples Used:
Joseph – Economic strategist who saved Egypt.
Daniel – Government official with prophetic wisdom.
Paul – Tentmaker who financed his own ministry.
Jesus – Spent most of his life as a carpenter in the marketplace.
✅ Summary:
Marketplace Christianity redefines ministry as something that happens wherever God's people are sent—including the office, boardroom, or classroom. Robert Fraser offers a prophetic call for believers to embrace their role in the marketplace as ambassadors of the Kingdom, not just workers or consumers.