The Jesus Entrepreneur: Unlocking Kingdom Principles for Marketplace Success

In a world increasingly focused on performance and profit, many Christian entrepreneurs grapple with how to integrate their faith into their business practices. Stan Hustad, podcaster/broadcaster and founder of What It Takes Radio, offers a refreshing and profound perspective: Jesus was the ultimate entrepreneur and salesman. His insights challenge conventional thinking, urging leaders to embrace a performance ministry mindset where faith and prosperity are not just compatible, but divinely intertwined.

Hustad's journey into this unique approach began after a personal crisis, finding himself at age 45 with "no house, no car, no job, no money, broke, and a kid in college" after years in missionary radio. This crucible led him to a deeper understanding of what it truly takes to be successful, not just in earthly terms, but in alignment with divine principles. He realized that the marketplace is a powerful arena for ministry, and that Jesus's life offers a blueprint for unparalleled success.

The Performance Economy: Every Business is Show Business

Hustad asserts that we live in a 'performance economy' where "every business is show business." This isn't about superficiality, but about intentionality and impact. He emphasizes that entrepreneurs must become strategic storytellers, streamers, and sellers. "You've got to show up, and you've got to put on a show. Break a leg. It's showtime." This means engaging your audience, not just with facts and figures, but with compelling narratives that resonate deeply. He reminds us of the 'invisible sign' that every person wears: 'Please tell me I'm important.' Recognizing and addressing this fundamental human need is key to genuine connection and successful engagement.

Selling Like Jesus: A Masterclass in Influence

When asked how to sell like Jesus, Hustad unveils a series of transformative principles.

• Find a Promoter: Jesus had John the Baptist. Who is your John? Identify those who genuinely believe in you and your mission and empower them to advocate on your behalf.
• Listen First, Tell Stories Second: Ask clients to share their story. This builds rapport and reveals their true needs. Then, share a story of real impact.
• Demonstrate, Don't Just Describe: Jesus showed the value He brought. Likewise, demonstrate—not just talk about—your value.
• Ask, 'What Do You Want?': Like Jesus, clarify and serve the real desires of your clients: "Don't give them what you want, give them what they want."
• Always Close with a Benediction: End every interaction with goodwill and blessing, fostering lasting connection beyond transactions.

Building a World-Class Company: The 3-12-70 Principle

Jesus's approach to building His 'company' offers a powerful framework for organizational growth.

• Start with One (You): Your personal vision and commitment are foundational.
• Find Three (Core Team): Build a trusted, aligned inner circle.
• Expand to Twelve (Key Leaders): Grow a broader team that embodies your mission.
• Network of Seventy (Influencers): Create wider influence and reach.
• Wait for the Holy Spirit (Divine Empowerment): Trust in God to multiply your efforts at the right time.

Hustad has taught this '3-12-70 principle' to corporate leaders who, even without knowing its Biblical roots, found it highly effective.

The Jesus Coaching Method: Thinking Like Christ

Central to Hustad's coaching is the question: "What would Jesus do if He were you?" This is about embodying Christ's mindset in your unique context. Hustad's baseball diamond framework for coaching includes:

• Home Plate - Think Like Jesus: What would Jesus do if He were me? What is really in the mind of Christ in my situation?
• First Base - Sell Like Jesus: Apply His sales principles to influence others.
• Second Base - Build a Business Like Jesus: Use the 3-12-70 framework for organizational growth.
• Third Base - Mentor like Jesus: Coach others so they are attracted to 'the game', advancing to home plate to start other enterprises and businesses.
• Pitcher's Mound - The Spirit Force: Right in the middle of the diamond - Rely on the Spirit force for guidance and power.

Faith and Prosperity: A Kingdom Perspective

Hustad believes faith and prosperity are not at odds. He challenges the idea that kingdom work should lack financial reward. "If you are in a business that does not help people flourish, your business is a racket." For Hustad, true kingdom business serves others and creates real value that leads to human flourishing. Security is in God, not the world, and excellence in one's profession is both a calling and a witness.

The MSE: Master of Self-Expression

Hustad stresses that entrepreneurs must become Masters of Self-Expression (MSE). "Before they buy your stuff... they have to buy you." Your capacity to present, to tell your story, and to connect authentically is paramount. Performance marketing—leveraging podcasting, streaming, and engaging storytelling—is key to market influence. Innovate how you share your message to maximize impact.

Words of Encouragement from Philippians

Drawing from Philippians and Paul's example, Hustad highlights four powerful themes:

1. Attitude of Gratitude (Philippians 1): Begin with thankfulness for every opportunity and relationship.
2. Serve Others (Philippians 2): Discover who you are called to serve—service is the true measure of success.
3. Forget What's Behind, Press Toward the Mark (Philippians 3): Release the past and focus on your unique, purposeful calling.
4. Think on These Things (Philippians 4): Fill your mind with what is positive, good, and beautiful to fuel creativity and hope.

Stan Hustad's message is a powerful call to action for Christian entrepreneurs: embrace your calling in the marketplace with the wisdom and spirit of Jesus. By doing so, you can achieve remarkable success and create a lasting impact that truly transforms lives and builds the Kingdom.