Jonah: As Christians, we are called to be set apart from the world. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 6:17, “Therefore, come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” Supporting businesses that promote values contrary to Scripture is akin to aligning ourselves with those values. For example, if a store openly endorses practices like greed or immorality, we shouldn’t shop there.

Carl: I think we have to be cautious about how far we take that. In Matthew 9:10-13, Jesus dined with tax collectors and sinners. He didn’t separate Himself entirely from the world; instead, He brought His light to dark places. Christians can shop wherever, provided we maintain our integrity and witness. It’s not where we shop but how we live that matters.

Jonah: But by giving our money to businesses that oppose biblical values, we’re directly supporting their agenda. Ephesians 5:11 says, “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” If a store funds causes that oppose Christian teachings—such as abortion or the destruction of family values—we should “have nothing to do with them.”

Carl: True, but we live in a fallen world. If we scrutinise every business to ensure they meet Christian standards, we’d never shop anywhere. Even in Jesus’ time, the Roman Empire used taxes to fund oppressive systems, but He still said, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:21). It’s about balancing participation in society with our faith.

Jonah: It’s not about withdrawing entirely. It’s about making a stand. In Daniel 1, Daniel and his friends refused the king’s food and wine because they were determined not to defile themselves. Similarly, Christians should refuse to support businesses that are blatantly unbiblical. It’s a way to live out our faith and show that we are different.

Carl: Daniel’s refusal was based on direct obedience to God’s law, but there’s no commandment about where Christians can shop. Instead, we’re called to love God and love our neighbour (Matthew 22:37-39). Perhaps we can shop responsibly and use our spending to support good causes, but judging others for where they shop can lead to legalism, which Jesus criticised in the Pharisees.

Jonah: It’s not about judging others; it’s about being faithful. Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Choosing not to shop at places that contradict our faith is one way to live that out.

Carl: I agree we shouldn’t conform to the world, but transformation starts in the heart, not in shopping habits. Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Let’s focus more on glorifying God in how we treat others and less on where we spend money.

Jonah: What about Christian who keep spending more on designer, branded goods instead of non-branded items that do the same thing. I think this ties directly into the issue of stewardship. As Christians, we are called to use God’s resources wisely. Proverbs 21:20 says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Often, branded goods come with inflated prices simply for the label. That money could be better used for God’s work—supporting missions, helping the needy, or giving to the church.

Carl: Stewardship is important, Jonah, but it’s not just about spending the least amount of money. 1 Timothy 6:17 reminds us, “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God.” Whether it’s branded or non-branded, the key is where our heart lies. If buying a branded item ensures better quality or longevity, it could also be a wise investment.

Jonah: But don’t you think branded goods encourage vanity and materialism? 1 John 2:16 warns against “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.” People often buy brands to flaunt status, which directly conflicts with the humility Christians are called to embody. Choosing modest, non-branded goods helps us resist the temptation to glorify ourselves rather than God.

Carl: I don’t disagree that pride can be a pitfall, but let’s not generalise motives. Not everyone buys branded goods for status. Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” If someone buys branded items because they align with their values—like supporting ethical labor or quality craftsmanship—that’s a valid choice. What matters is intentionality, not the label.

Jonah: That’s fair, but branded items often come with the baggage of consumer culture. Companies can exploit workers, harm the environment, or encourage idolatry of material things. As Christians, shouldn’t we avoid participating in such systems? Micah 6:8 tells us to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Non-branded goods can often be simpler and less complicit in these issues.

Carl: I agree that justice and mercy should guide us, but non-branded goods aren’t always better. Some are produced unethically or are of poor quality, leading to wastefulness—a failure in stewardship. Instead of focusing solely on brand or no-brand, Christians should research where their money is going. Supporting brands that prioritise fair trade, sustainability, and ethical practices aligns with biblical values of justice and care for creation (Genesis 2:15).

Jonah: True, but this can quickly become over-complicated. The Bible calls us to simplicity: Matthew 6:19-21 warns, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy.” Non-branded goods usually reflect a simpler lifestyle, which is less likely to lead to storing up earthly treasures. The less we focus on brands, the more we can focus on God.

Carl: Simplicity is important, but it’s not the same for everyone. The key is the heart behind the purchase. Romans 14:13 says, “Make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” If someone buys branded goods in a way that honours God—whether through quality, ethics, or stewardship—we should respect their choice. The gospel frees us to make decisions prayerfully, not under legalistic rules.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.