Should Christians boycott companies that oppose biblical values?
Introduction
In the modern world, nearly every major company takes a stance—either actively or passively—on social and cultural issues that may conflict with biblical values. For a new Christian striving to live a holy life, this raises the significant question: Should I actively withdraw my financial support from companies whose actions or values are contrary to Scripture?
The Bible does not give a specific instruction on boycotting modern corporations. Instead, it provides principles to guide the decision, recognizing that we live as "aliens and strangers" in a world that is fundamentally opposed to God (1 Peter 2:11). The ultimate decision is less about a command and more about wisdom, stewardship, and personal conscience.
Three Principles for Guiding a Boycott Decision
The Christian decision regarding a boycott should be filtered through the lens of holiness, practicality, and conscience.
1. The Principle of Holiness and Non-Participation (The Command to Separate)
Christians are commanded to live holy lives, which includes avoiding participation in sin and corruption.
Exposure vs. Participation: The Apostle Paul acknowledges that complete isolation from the non-Christian world is impossible: “I did not at all mean the sexually immoral people of this world… since then you would need to go out of the world” (1 Corinthians 5:10). We must live in the world, but not be of the world. The question becomes: Does my financial support constitute an unholy participation in the company's sin?
Exposure of Darkness: We are told to shine light, not hide from darkness: “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them” (Ephesians 5:11). For some Christians, a boycott is a way of "exposing" or withdrawing support from unrighteous actions.
2. The Principle of Stewardship and Impact (The Practicality Test)
Any decision to boycott must consider whether the action is a wise use of time, money, and influence.
Effective Stewardship: Boycotting requires research and discipline. Is the energy spent on the boycott having a noticeable impact on the company or a more noticeable impact on your spiritual walk (e.g., leading to judgment or obsession)? A wise Christian evaluates the resources expended versus the tangible, godly result.
The Purity Trap: It is practically impossible to avoid every company that violates a biblical principle. Every modern company is part of a complex global economy—some have poor labor practices, some pollute, and many donate to causes Christians oppose. Attempting a complete "pure boycott" often leads to paralysis or legalism. The Christian must choose where their witness and resources can be most effectively utilized.
3. The Principle of Conscience and Liberty (The Personal Decision)
The decision to boycott often falls under the category of Christian liberty—an area where Scripture permits freedom, but personal conscience dictates action.
Conscience is Key: If your personal conscience is convicted that supporting a particular company is wrong or compromises your integrity as a believer, then you must not support it. “But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). Your action must proceed from faith and a clear conscience.
Do Not Judge Others: Conversely, a Christian who boycotts must not judge a fellow believer who, after prayer and reflection, concludes that a boycott is unnecessary or ineffective. The core principle is not uniformity of action, but unity of spirit in pursuing Christ (Romans 14:12).
Conclusion
Should you boycott? The Bible gives you the freedom to do so. If a company’s actions are egregious, if your conscience is clear, and if you feel the action is an effective way to witness to God's standard, then a prayerful boycott can be an appropriate expression of Christian conviction.
However, the Christian life is primarily about internal transformation, not external political action. Focus your main effort on holiness in your own life and service to your neighbor, knowing that the most powerful witness you have is a life transformed by the Gospel, regardless of which coffee cup you hold.
