As a reader of this newsletter, you are very likely interested in the integration of your life as a follower of Jesus, and your call to creativity and entrepreneurship. Called to Create: A Biblical Invitation to Create, Innovate, and Risk, by Jordan Raynor, is a remarkably thorough yet concise guide to a deeper understanding and more faithful practice of Christian entrepreneurship.

While Called to Create is directed specifically to entrepreneurs, Raynor defines entrepreneurship more broadly than the task of starting a business. He introduces the following, more generalized definition:

“An entrepreneur is anyone who takes a risk to create something new for the good of others.”

Thus, Raynor is addressing not just founders of businesses and non-profits, but those engaged in any creative endeavor including architects, designers, chefs, and musicians.

The book is a well-balanced blend of biblical foundations, conceptual exposition, and many applicable stories that show these concepts in practice. It is divided into four sections: “calling, creating, challenges, and charge.” In the first two sections, Raynor provides a biblical theology of work and creativity, often drawing upon the work of others, such as John Mark Comer and Timothy Keller, but summarizing and restating the principles in a concise, and succinct way.

The third section (“Challenges”) is especially pertinent and helpful, as it addresses the kinds of challenges that are uniquely experienced by entrepreneurs. We were challenged and encouraged by the way Raynor addresses questions about how to engage in the hustle that is required to get a business going while cultivating a heart of trusting God and practicing healthy rhythms of rest.

Finally, Raynor’s “Charge” in section four resonates with our calling at M3 to strive toward a triple bottom line: making disciples and a difference as we make a profit through enterprise. We highly recommend this scripturally rooted, conceptually rich, and experientially grounded guide to any Christian entrepreneur.1 It would also make a great gift for a young Christian creative.

Verse(s) of the Week:

The Lord said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship . . . Exodus 31:1-3 (ESV)

Let’s thank God for filling with his Spirit the many modern-day Bezalels to be creative for his glory!