Some have seen in Acts an incipient
“Christian socialism.” They use passages like Acts 2:43-45 & 4:32-35 to
show that the early believers practiced socialism. For a number of reasons,
that idea is just not true.
First, socialism is generally
non-theistic or agnostic. I say this not because those might be most common
beliefs among socialists. I say it because socialism in effect replaces the
biblical idea of God as provider, protector, executor of justice, & even
Savior. Government & its bureaucracy become the replacement for God.
Second, socialism is wealth transfer.
What we see in Acts is a response that today would be called relief. It is
making sure that victims of a natural disaster or other kind of calamity are
kept housed, fed, & clothed. It only keeps people alive, but it doesn’t
empower or enable them to care for themselves.
Third, socialism is coercive. The
wealth transfer in Acts was voluntary as a compassionate response to a very
real need. No one was required to give or penalized for not giving. Socialism
would never happen if people were given the option to not participate.
Fourth, socialism seeks to create
utopia thru human effort. It is one thing to seek to alleviate the terrible
effects of sin & the curse while recognizing that ultimate cure will only
come thru God’s sovereign action. It is something totally different to presume
that human effort can remove the effects of human rebellion against God.
What do I say this? Because Christians
have no business pushing this idea. They need to take a closer look at
Scripture.
Thank you! I totally agree. I couldn't have said that better myself. I know I couldn't have said that. Hahaha
ReplyDeleteI do not take what was written in the book of Acts as socialism either. I agree it was acts of kindness which should be among all "Born Again" believers in "The Way".
I thoroughly enjoy reading your blogs Pastor Ray. I feel as if they're miraculous because they just pop up on my phone every once in awhile. Maybe when I pick up my phone I'm hitting something that I I am not aware of. Either way I'm glad that it happens because I I am truly gleaning from your blogs. Keep them coming. And if you can talk me through on my phone how to get to that site myself I'll read more. Blessings on you and Deborah. my sister Mary and I are no longer on Facebook and she keeps asking me about you and Deborah. If you could contact me that would be great. How are things going in New Mexico?
Patty, Somehow I think I missed your response here. I had been wondering why I didn't see you anymore on FB. We're doing well. Blessings!
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