Jan 7 • Hot topics
Does the Bible affirm socialism?
Here in America, politicians are starting to run campaigns with socialistic messaging and platforms.
Sometimes, the Bible is quoted to support the messaging and principles.
I've often heard on social media and even some friends saying things like "the Bible is more socialistic".
I find that interesting.
They usually point to 2 acts passages (at the exclusion of the rest of the Bible's teaching on resources).
"All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."
Acts 2:44-47
"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales."
Acts 4:32-34
A couple observations.
-These were remarkable moments of generosity in the local church
-All generosity was willing and not forced by government or even by church leaders
-They still owned property as seen in other passages where they met in believers houses
-In Acts 5 (directly after Acts 4:32-34), we have the story of Ananias and Sapphire. Paul affirms that the property they sold and its proceeds were theirs to do what they wanted, not under compulsion from anyone.
-The Bible affirms private property ownership in the 8th commandment, "You shall not steal". The command implies people have individual ownership over property and possessions, and that God respects their ownership.
-God owns everything, but He stewards ownership to people, respects ownership and holds us accountable for how we use what He gives us.
-God doesn't give or promise everyone the same amount of resources and rewards (parable of the Talents).
-God expects us to use what we have to His glory, be useful and produce.
-God expects us to manage our resources and goods wisely.
-Part of the reason God gives us things is to enjoy them (1 Timothy 6:17)
-Paul had requirements for food distribution to widows (1 Timothy 5)
-Pauls instructions to Titus that "those who don't work, don't eat" (2 Thessalonians 3:10)
I think these are important things to consider when we think through whether the Bible supports socialism.
Thoughts?
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Does the Bible affirm socialism?
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