Businesses exist to maximize profits. Consumers maximize utility (satisfaction). Politicians attempt to maximize votes.
By law, the U.S. Federal reserve has three objectives: maximum employment, stable prices and moderate long-term interest rates. Purpose can vary by the type of entity, current conditions and even by individual.
Incentive follows purpose. Businesses that attempt to maximize profits will do all in their power to provide the best product, service and price. They will pay workers commensurate with their contribution to profits. Consumers attempt to boost their wages, income and interest to be able to buy more products and services to increase their utility via consumption.
Consumers will also search to find the best deal as businesses scramble to make the sale. Many argue that politicians do too much to gain more votes. Some think that the legal objectives of the Federal Reserve are conflicting and do not provide clear direction for monetary policy. Purpose, incentives and outcomes are forever linked.
In the kingdom, the purpose is clear. All citizens in the kingdom should have the same purpose. All churches should have the same mission. Jesus paid the price. His divine pleasure is our incentive. Our King has promised us eternal life, treasures in heaven, and an abundant life now. It doesn't matter whether the kingdom citizen is in ministry, business, teaching, medicine, writing, the home or the arts—purpose is the same. Strategies and tactics will vary, but the purpose is the same. The Great Commission is our purpose.
"Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the age'" (Matt. 28:18-20).
Before Jesus returned to our Father, He indicated the importance of the Holy Spirit whom He would send. He explained how the Holy Spirit would empower us to witness throughout the world. This promise was fulfilled at Pentecost.
"Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away. For if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you" (John 16:7).
"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8).
How do we measure up against the divine mandate? Do we emphasize it? Do we teach it? Do we model it? Are we raising up disciples?
Considering the importance that Jesus placed on the topic, a self-examination could prove beneficial. The following questions are designed to stimulate thought. As you prayerfully ponder them, the Holy Spirit will give insight.
- Does our flock know the Great Commission?
- Is the Great Commission a part of our church or ministry mission?
- Has our flock adopted the Great Commission as their personal mission statement?
- Are we raising disciples or only believers?
- Does our flock understand the divine mandate to witness within our God-given professions?
- Does the unity exhibited in our churches reflect a people with a common purpose?
- Is the Holy Spirit's role in fulfilling the Great Commission emphasized?
- Is the Holy Spirit honored and given freedom in our services and teachings?
Understanding and applying the Great Commission will change the world. Jesus has been given all authority. The Holy Spirit, the third member of the Trinity, empowers us to witness to all. The world has never had greater need of the gospel. We have no excuses. All we need is the will. 
Dr. James R. Russell is professor of economics and chair of the Undergraduate College of Business at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
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