My Perspective: John Warton

The case for using business to accomplish Kingdom goals was unintentionally presented with clarity by renowned economist Jeffrey Sach’s in his best-selling book, The End of Poverty . Sachs compares two scenarios – in the first,a worker in a poor country earns $300 in a year on his per capita capital of $900. But 10 years later depreciation of that capital and population increases leave him earning only $209. Poverty is overtaking him and his family. In the contrasting scenario, a worker’s rate of income on his capital is the same, but he starts with twice the capital ($1800) and so earns $600 per year. The same depreciation and population trends apply, but in 10 years this person has accumulated savings, earns $687 a year, and lives better. Poverty actually begins to decline. The difference in the two scenarios is the infusion of only $900 in capital. (p. 248).This is exactly what lending to Christian entrepreneurs accomplishes, but with even greater impact when larger loans ($2,000 – $20,000)are made to qualified entrepreneurs who manage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Their industry creates new jobs for others, enabling many to have a steady, self-sustaining income. And they repay their loans! At the same time, these dedicated believers are providing leadership to their churches, contributing to the financial needs, and earning a good reputation in their communities as capable,Godly employers.

Jesus said we can do good to the poor whenever we wish (Mark14:4). Beyond the preaching the Gospel,we believe this is the greatest ‘good’ we can do for the poor, especially for the household of faith. It’s what the BPN is all about. God can use you in this holistic model of ministry. And that’s how I see it.

John H. Warton, Jr
President