Frequently Asked Questions

Biblically responsible investing is taking 1 Cor 10:31 at face value.  Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God. Our screening tool takes threefold approach. 

1. ‍Endorse companies making a positive impact on the world;‍
2. Engage with companies to create positive Biblical change; and‍
3. Exclude companies involved in immoral issues.

No, there isn't. Aligning with good values doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing returns. Nothing in investing is guaranteed, however, research from institutions like Biola University, Oxford University, and Wharton suggests that adopting values-based investment practices, such as Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI), can positively impact investment performance. 

It's also worth noting the wisdom from Proverbs: "Better is a little with righteousness than greater revenues with injustice" (Prov 16:8 ESV). As Christians, if faced with a choice between higher returns from immoral investments or lower returns from investments that glorify God, the clear decision should be to opt for the path that honors God, regardless of financial outcomes. (Just a thought.) Thankfully, if we invest correctly, that doesn't have to be the case 

Indeed, out of 7,000 stocks trading across multiple US exchanges, there are about 2,300 that meet all biblical screening criteria. The companies that don't pass these criteria are predominantly among the largest mega-cap companies. You can verify the Inspire Impact Score of any company or fund yourself at inspireinsight.com.

A common question we receive is whether owning a product from a company with questionable practices implicates the consumer. At The Christian Investors, we draw a clear distinction between consumerism and ownership based on biblical principles. As a consumer, your responsibility lies solely with the product or service you've purchased, not with the actions of the company behind it. Therefore, owning an iPhone, for example, is not a moral issue.

However, as a shareholder in a company like Apple or any other, you're directly involved in its profits and corporate decisions because you're an owner. Regardless of the extent of your ownership, you hold responsibility. If the company engages in immoral activities like supporting abortion or pornography, or channels corporate funds towards unethical causes such as donations to Planned Parenthood, you bear accountability as a shareholder.

We recommend studying 1 Corinthians 10:14-31 for a biblical perspective on this matter.

Absolutely. Buying a stock contributes to the upward movement of that company's stock price. Moreover, by acquiring a stock, you've effectively become a part-owner of the company, thereby endorsing and participating in all of its corporate endeavors.

Some contend that purchasing stock on the secondary market, such as a stock exchange, doesn't directly funnel money to the company, much like buying a used car doesn't benefit the car manufacturer. While it's accurate that your money isn't directly deposited into the company's bank account, your purchase still bolsters the company by supporting its stock price, and you assume ownership in the company. (Refer to the previous question on ownership versus consumerism for further clarification.)

We use a tool called Inspire Insight to filter the stock market for biblical values. This tool takes a unique approach to screening called the Inspire Impact Score Methodology, which includes both positive screens and exclusionary screens. Check out this white paper for all the nitty gritty details. 

That's understandable. We recognize that not every issue holds the same level of importance for all investors. However, each screened issue does resonate with a particular group of investors who deeply care about it. Hence, to cater to and support these investors, we meticulously consider all such issues.

Moreover, irrespective of your personal investment priorities, as we have been "crucified with Christ, it is not longer us who lives, but Christ in us" Gal. 2:20; we should "seek first His kingdom and His righteousness" Matt. 6:33, above our own opinions.

Additionally, research indicates that incorporating values-based analysis like the Inspire Impact Score Methodology has yielded positive results for certain portfolio returns. And who wouldn't appreciate that?

Certainly, screening is crucial. If we declare opposition to certain issues like abortion or human trafficking, it's inconsistent to invest in businesses involved in them solely for profit. Additionally, research indicates that implementing screens such as the Inspire Impact Score Methodology has not only enhanced some portfolio returns but also reduced portfolio risk. Who wouldn't welcome such outcomes? For further details, please refer to the Performance Study of Biblically Responsible Investing. *Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Visit inspireinsight.com and enter the ticker symbols of the stocks or funds in your portfolio into the search bar. The results will highlight any potential violations in categories that matter to you. 

Our Biblical Stock Selector Tool, accessible through the Biblical Stock Investing System uses Inspire Insight as our first filter, before we filter/sort for financial and valuation metrics. 

Romans 12:2:

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

This verse emphasizes the importance of not conforming to worldly standards, including avoiding investments in businesses that promote sinful activities. By renewing your mind, you can discern God’s will in your investment choices.

1 Corinthians 10:31:

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

This principle can be applied to your investing by ensuring that your investments honor God and do not support sinful agendas. Make every financial decision as an act of worship.

Ephesians 5:11:

"Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them."

You are encouraged to avoid and expose activities that are contrary to biblical values, which includes avoiding investments in companies that engage in unethical practices.

Philippians 4:8:

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Let this verse guide you to focus on companies and investments that reflect these positive and virtuous qualities. Invest in what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.

Psalm 1:1:

"Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers."

This verse advises you against aligning with wickedness, which means avoiding investments in companies that promote or profit from sinful activities.

Proverbs 16:8:

"Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice."

This highlights the importance of prioritizing righteousness over financial gain. Choose to invest in ethical and just companies, even if it means accepting smaller returns.

1 Timothy 6:9-10:

"Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."

These verses caution you against the love of money and the ethical compromises it can lead to. Make sure your investments align with Christian values to avoid spiritual pitfalls.

2 Corinthians 6:14:

"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?"

This verse encourages you to avoid partnerships with those who do not share your values, including investments in companies that engage in or promote sinful activities. Choose to invest in alignment with righteousness and light.

By applying these biblical principles, you can ensure your investments align with your faith and honor God.