Socialism

Series- HOT POTATOES: The Bible Speaks to Controversial Topics, Vol. 2

“Socialism”

New Testament principles of the church to help us view socialism correctly:

In the church, no one should be in desperate need. (Acts 2:44-45)

All of the Bible, Old and New Testament, assumes private property. (Ex. 20:15)

Christian giving toward need is not based on economic class. (II Cor. 8:1-2)

Christian giving toward need is not coerced. (II Cor. 8:3; 9:7)

Historically, socialism has resulted in…

What should we say to those who point to the early church as a model of socialism?

Their community of care was the result of shared and shared .

(Acts 4:32-37)

The Bible knows nothing of a .

(II Thess. 3:8, 10; I Tim. 5:8; Prov. 12:11; 14:23; Gen. 2:15)

Biblically, capitalism/free market is superior to socialism, because…

Capitalism/ free market is with the biblical role of government.

(Rom. 13:4; Prov. 17:27)

Scripture considers government control of private property an of power.

(I Sam. 8:10-18)

Scripture teaches private property belongs to the , not the government. (Ex. 20:10)

Scripture advocates for human , and a free market is essential to that.

(Ex. 20:2; 21:16)

Summation: The community of the church exists, not to illustrate socialism, but .

(Acts 2:46-47)