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Social Justice and Scripture: Untie the Knot Pt.5

How does a government reduce force in human life? There are two main ways: a legal system (the legislature and the law courts), and a defense system (the police and the military).

A proper government has only these two functions: to define what constitutes the initiation of force, and to stop those who initiate it, be they criminals or invaders.

Social Justice and Scripture: Untie the Knot Pt.16

What did Jesus say about taxes?

The two most important passages:

  • The miracle of the coin in the fish’s mouth—Matthew 17:24-27
  • Render unto Caesar—Matthew 22:17-21 (and parallels)

Social Justice and Scripture: Untie the Knot Pt.15

In the argument against “social justice” we now come to several of the most important Scripture passages.

  • Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2: The relationship of Christians to their earthly governments.
  • Matthew 17 and 22 (and parallel passages): Christ’s view on taxation.

Social Justice and Scripture: Untie the Knot Pt.13

What of “socialism” in the Bible?

Many Christians (including professors, pastors, and leaders) reason that since God desires us to do good toward others, the government should step in to provide for those whose needs are not met. They call this the “safety net.” They consider it an aspect of caring for one’s neighbor. They deny that the result is “confiscation” and “redistribution” of wealth.

I respect their desire to do good toward others, but I consider their position ill-informed.

Social Justice and Scripture: Untie the Knot Pt.14

Aside from Acts 2 and 4, perhaps the most common Christian argument for socialism is the “welfare system” of ancient Israel.

Let’s look at the arguments from the Jubilee and the gleaning laws.