In this episode Steve Van Diest interviews Ross Chapman, CEO of the Denver Institute for Faith and Work, about how faith and business intersect. They explore Jesus’ example of ordinary work, reframing ministry to include everyday jobs, and how companies can promote human flourishing through good jobs, competence, and long-term vision.
Practical takeaways include treating daily work as ministry, designing workplaces that serve employees and communities, and resources for leaders who want to integrate faith and work, including local programs, podcasts, and fellowship opportunities.
0:00 – 1:00 | Introduction
Steve introduces the Sharpen Podcast, sponsored by Acumen, a growth community for CEOs and entrepreneurs.
Sets up the theme: human flourishing, business, and faith at work.
1:00 – 4:00 | Ross’s Background
Ross introduces himself as CEO of Denver Institute for Faith & Work (DIFW).
Moved from Indiana to Colorado 3 years ago.
DIFW’s mission: reframe society’s relationship with work through a Christian lens, showing how business can drive human flourishing.
4:00 – 6:00 | Family and Career Path
Ross’s wife, Candace, works in city development projects nationwide.
They have 3 boys who enjoy Colorado life.
Previously founded a nonprofit in Indiana that united city leaders and pastors for community good.
Realized the importance of focusing on people’s everyday work rather than just spare-time volunteerism.
Completed doctoral work in faith, work, and economics; authored Faithful Work in the Daily Grind.
6:00 – 9:00 | Faith–Work Divide
Steve shares his own struggles as a business owner separating faith and profit.
Ross explains many Christians feel their work is either a “necessary evil” or just a means to fund “real ministry.”
Reframes Genesis as God’s original job description to humanity: cultivate, create, solve problems—an entrepreneurial vision.
Warns that work can become either meaningless or a master; need to see it as “with God, for others.”
9:00 – 12:00 | Practical Examples
Ross shares conversations with baristas, reframing their role as building community rather than “just making coffee.”
Discusses business owners who view their companies as God’s work, contrasted with those who feel guilty for leaving ministry roles.
12:00 – 18:00 | Redefining Ministry & Jesus’s Example
Ross highlights Jesus spent two decades doing manual work before public ministry—validating everyday work.
Critiques the narrow church definition of “full-time ministry.”
Redefines ministry as all commissioned work with God for others—whether spreadsheets, HVAC, or management.
Introduces Tim Keller’s concept: the ministry of competence (doing excellent work as witness).
Cites Barna research showing practicing Christians find more meaning and trust at work.
18:00 – 24:00 | Human Flourishing & Business
DIFW research: flourishing involves meaningful work, relationships, stability, and reconciliation.
Business is the economic engine: profits fund public services (via taxes) and nonprofits (via philanthropy).
Ross argues businesses create flourishing through jobs, benefits, stability, and dignity, not just profits.
Encourages long-term company building over short-term private equity exits.
24:00 – 28:00 | Generational Impact & Culture
Stories of entrepreneurs focusing on generational impact (e.g., creating wealth for 100 families).
Business leaders should see their work itself as God’s work.
True company culture = human flourishing, not perks like free lunches or kegerators.
28:00 – 30:00 | Ross’s Personal Growth Practices
Ross sharpens himself by collaborating nationally through DIFW’s “City Gate” network.
Relies on a talented team that challenges him and provides feedback.
30:00 – 33:00 | Resources & Closing
DIFW offers:
500+ articles and two podcasts (Faith & Work and Teach Us to Pray).
70 annual events.
Fellowship programs for young professionals.
Annual Business for the Common Good event (next in March 2026).
Steve closes, affirming the need for faith-driven business leadership.