There is a help wanted sign figuratively hanging in a number of churches: “Intrapreneurs Wanted”. Maybe your church does not use the word Intrapreneur, but undoubtedly you are thinking of synonyms. Let’s see if I am right on that by defining intrapreneurship.

Entrepreneurship. We love to be entrepreneurial—we dream about starting a new business where we are our own boss, we aim to grow hobbies into a side hustle, and when it comes to ministry we look at new and fresh opportunities to engage in. Those are amazing opportunities that can be of significant kingdom value. Our entrepreneurial skills can impact our community for good, can steward our God given skills and talents in amazing ways . . . but what if many of us should be investing a similar level of blood, sweat, and tears in existing commitments?

Intrapreneurship. This is where “intrapreneurship” comes in. “Intrapreneur” originally referred to a person in the business world who remained within their company and brought about reform and innovation.[1] Rather than going outside an existing business or organization, intrapreneurs figure out how to work within existing structures and org charts to bring about change for good.

What about church intrapreneurs? The innovation and creativity required in today’s ministry climate requires a team effort—which harnesses the skills, talents, and abilities of a diverse group of people. We need people who are self-starters, motivated to actively advance God’s Kingdom as a part of a church-based team. We need intrapreneurship in churches where it feels like there are more committees than there are people.

Us. If there was ever a time in which church intrapreneurship was critical, this would certainly rank as a contender for importance. Have you considered applying your intrapreneurship skills within your local church? Probably you have. However, there is a good chance that you are tired, or maybe your church even feels stuck. But that is not where we need to remain.

Pulse. The Seventh Day Baptist Pulse process seeks to catalyze intrapreneurship. Through focusing on healthy leaders and healthy churches, there is intentional opportunity to foster intrapreneurship as we join God in His work of church revitalization. If you would like more information about the Pulse process, please contact the SDB Director of Church Development, John Pethtel, at jpethtel@seventhdaybaptist.org.

Grace and peace,

Carl Greene

Executive Director, SDB General Conference of USA and Canada

[1] Amy L. Sherman. 2011. Kingdom Calling: Vocational Stewardship for the Common Good. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.