Assuming we’re talking about occupations and not doctrinal or creedal “professions”…
The Apostle Paul was a tentmaker. The Apostles Peter, Andrew, John and James were fishermen. Matthew was a tax collector, before he became an apostle. We are not told what the others did.
Should we follow their professions? Once we link the word “should” to anything then we run the risk of being legalistic, that is making laws where none exist, and we bind our brethren to our rules instead of letting them have liberty in Christ.
Looking at Paul and the fishermen, their jobs were simply methods of supporting themselves rather than professions. They could leave it at a moment’s notice and pick it back up when necessary. Matthew had a profession or career, if you will. He left that for good when he followed Christ.
When we as Christians decide on a job, it needs to be able to pay the bills and it needs to bring glory to God. Working at McDonalds may not be glamorous but it does not bring dishonor to God. Whereas working in a liquor store, or tobacco shop may be dishonoring. If we are looking for a career, we have to determine the amount of time our employer will require of us and weigh it against our devotion to God. If your career choice doesn’t allow for you to assemble with your brethren in Christ at least once a week, and you are too busy to study the Bible because of it, then it is most likely not a job for a Christian – no matter how much it pays.
In short, any profession that does not bring any possible reproach upon the cause of Christ, provides “things honest in the sight of all men”, and is able to supply at least the basic necessities for you and your family seems to be the best course of action. Most importantly, such a job should not interfere with or impede our Christian duties or slow our run for “the high calling in Christ Jesus.”
