Economics and Jesus

In my spare time, I enjoy few debates more than what Jesus' view on the economy would be. So, this morning and after every one left (about an hour ago) I treated myself, this Christmas, to reading a few articles debating the issue.

I love this topic because both side has excellent points and, due to the topic, is impassioned. Some people will adamantly swear that Jesus was a socialist. They use quotes like "Give up all your possessions and follow me." They also use some of the parables, mainly the parable of the good samaritan, which is in Luke 10: 25. They argue that Jesus was a radical who cared nothing for the ways and means of the world but only sought to follow God. He flipped over tables in church because he was so incredibly anti-materialistic. He freely gave up himself for the good of others. How can one not see how clearly socialist he is?

The other side says that Jesus is an anarcho-capitalist. He did not believe in the hierarchy and believed in direct aid to the poor. Notice that Jesus did not dictate someone else to die on the cross for the sins of mankind. Jesus came to this earth to set us free. Governments can do nothing but inhibit freedom, so therefore, Jesus must be an anarcho-capitalist. They then point to the parable of the sower which is in Matthew Mark and Luke. He told us to use our talents wisely. There is no wiser use than what the free markets will determine.

The benefit of this argument is that both sides have a great deal of evidence. I will not tell you where I stand on this argument tonight, because I want to clearly state my views on this topic and that will simply take more time than I am willing to commit this close to midnight.

I hope all of you had an incredibly Merry Christmas and I hope that God blesses you in the upcoming new year.