Ministry Isn’t Just For Pastors

by | Apr 8, 2025 | Business as Mission, Resources, Videos

During a recent trip to Springfield, Missouri, Erik Cooper found time to visit his 86-year-old aunt and uncle—faithful missionaries and bivocational pastors who have spent their lives serving Jesus without fanfare or headlines. As they reminisced, Erik was reminded of the power of simple, steady obedience in the kingdom of God. His uncle shared a story about a man who wanted nothing to do with church—so instead of preaching from a pulpit, he put on work gloves and met him in the forest, logging trees and sharing the gospel in the midst of real life. This story is a reminder: ministry doesn’t just happen inside a church building. The gospel moves wherever God’s people go. Whether you’re running a business, leading a team, or showing up to work every day, your faith belongs there. The marketplace is a sacred space, and you are a temple of the Holy Spirit.

Erik Cooper

After starting his career in the business world, Erik spent 12 years in full-time ministry, both on staff at a large suburban church and as a church planter in a downtown urban context. In addition to his role at The Stone Table, he also serves as the Vice President of Community Reinvestment Foundation, a nonprofit real estate company that provides high-quality affordable housing all over Indiana while investing its profits into missions through The Stone Table.

OUR MISSION
The Stone Table Exists to Mobilize Marketplace Believers for The Great Commission.