Topical Bible: Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Sellers and Buyers

◄ Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Sellers and Buyers ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Commerce, as depicted in the Bible, is an essential aspect of daily life and economic activity, involving the exchange of goods and services. Those who participate in commerce are typically referred to as sellers and buyers. The Bible provides various insights into the roles and responsibilities of these individuals, often highlighting moral and ethical considerations.

Sellers

Sellers are individuals who offer goods or services in exchange for money or other commodities. The Bible acknowledges the role of sellers in the marketplace, emphasizing the importance of honesty and fairness in their dealings. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom literature provides guidance on ethical business practices: "Differing weights and unequal measures—both are detestable to the LORD" (Proverbs 20:10). This verse underscores the expectation that sellers maintain integrity and avoid deceitful practices.

The New Testament also addresses the conduct of sellers, particularly in the context of the temple. Jesus' cleansing of the temple is a notable event where He drives out those who were buying and selling, saying, "It is written, 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it 'a den of robbers'" (Matthew 21:13). This act serves as a reminder of the sanctity of worship spaces and the need for sellers to respect religious practices and settings.

Buyers

Buyers, on the other hand, are those who acquire goods or services from sellers. The Bible provides guidance for buyers, encouraging them to exercise discernment and fairness. Proverbs 20:14 illustrates a common practice among buyers: "It is worthless, it is worthless!' says the buyer, but when he goes on his way, then he boasts" . This verse highlights the tendency of some buyers to undervalue goods during negotiation, only to later boast about their acquisition, thus calling for honesty in transactions.

The Bible also warns against the dangers of materialism and the excessive pursuit of wealth, which can affect both buyers and sellers. In 1 Timothy 6:10, Paul writes, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows" . This admonition serves as a caution to buyers to prioritize spiritual values over material possessions.

Ethical Considerations

Throughout Scripture, the ethical dimensions of commerce are emphasized, with both sellers and buyers being called to conduct their transactions with integrity and justice. The prophet Amos speaks against those who exploit the poor and manipulate the market for personal gain: "Hear this, you who trample the needy, who do away with the poor of the land, asking, 'When will the New Moon be over, that we may sell grain? And the Sabbath, that we may market wheat? We can reduce the ephah, add to the shekel, and cheat with dishonest scales'" (Amos 8:4-5). This passage condemns unethical practices and highlights the importance of compassion and fairness in commerce.

In summary, the Bible provides a framework for understanding the roles of sellers and buyers within the context of commerce. It calls for honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior, urging individuals to conduct their business in a manner that honors God and respects others.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 24:2
And it shall be, as with the people, so with the priest; as with the servant, so with his master; as with the maid, so with her mistress; as with the buyer, so with the seller; as with the lender, so with the borrower; as with the taker of usury, so with the giver of usury to him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A New Order of Priests and Levites
... Spiritually minded, they were much engaged in intercession for ... In some persons this
natural inaptitude and unfitness ... and from the chambers of commerce and the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/a new order of priests.htm