What happens when a business leader catches a vision for making disciples? In this powerful conversation, Craig Etheredge and Ben Borgman sit down with Chad Alvarez—an accomplished entrepreneur, faithful family man, and a board member at discipleFIRST—to explore how leaders can align their influence with Jesus’ model for ministry.
Chad’s story is one of legacy and intentionality. From his early days in banking to leading a thriving family business, Chad unpacks how his father-in-law, Don, planted seeds of disciple-making that are still bearing fruit today. Together, they walk through what it looks like to bridge the gap between the church and the marketplace—showing that disciple-making isn’t just for pastors, it’s for every follower of Jesus.
You’ll discover how business professionals can partner with pastors, build intentional relationships, and leverage their daily environments to advance God’s kingdom. Chad offers practical insight on living out your faith at work, developing others, and leading with purpose that lasts beyond the bottom line.
Whether you’re a church leader, a marketplace influencer, or someone passionate about making an eternal difference, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to live boldly for the mission of Jesus.
Overview:
- 00:00 “Unlocking Potential in Church Leaders”
- 04:21 “Business as a Divine Mission”
- 07:49 Finance Career Journey
- 12:18 Mentorship and Unexpected Guidance
- 13:47 “Building on the Rock”
- 18:47 Cancer Battle and Faith Journey
- 23:47 “Rethinking Career Development”
- 26:03 Positivity Beyond Business Constraints
- 29:16 Faith-Driven Business Values
- 32:56 Kingdom Investment Stewardship
- 35:31 Discipleship and Ministry Connection
- 41:34 “Disciple-Making Pathway: The Grow Series”
- 44:55 “Calling Leaders to Greater Purpose”
- 46:36 “Step Up for Kingdom Work”
- 49:30 “Steps for Spiritual Engagement”
- 52:14 Legacy, Potential, and True Value
Discussion Questions:
- Chad describes the positive impact his father-in-law Don had on him both personally and professionally. What stood out to you about Don’s approach to disciple-making and mentorship?
- Craig and Ben both had significant encouragement from business leaders before moving into ministry. How have people in your workplace influenced your spiritual journey?
- Chad’s story highlights the integration of faith and business. In what ways can businesspeople live out their faith at work without drawing a strict line between the “sacred” and “secular”?
- The legacy Don left was described as multi-generational. How can we build a spiritual legacy within our own families and spheres of influence?
- Craig mentions “calling business leaders up” to a higher vision for the Kingdom. How can pastors practically do this in their own church context?
- Chad’s company is named 323 Capital, based on Colossians 3:23. What are some ways you could intentionally reflect your faith in your business or professional setting?
- The partnership between business leaders and church leaders was called a “resource” for the church. How might churches better engage and mobilize the businesspeople already sitting in their pews?
- Discuss the tension Chad described between pursuing business success and trusting God’s plan. Why is it sometimes difficult to surrender our ambitions to God in the workplace?
- Ben noted that it was easier to have spiritual conversations in the workplace than in full-time ministry. Why do you think that is, and what opportunities might you be missing where you work?
- What is one simple, actionable step you could take this week to either be discipled by someone or to pour into another person in your professional context?
