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This week we’re talking about a recent comment made by Tim Walz, the Democrat nominee for Vice President, in which he likened socialism to neighborliness. I try not to get into political discussions on the podcast, but comments like this attempt to equate this political ideology with the teachings of Jesus to love your neighbor as yourself. Is socialism just being a good neighbor, or is it something different? We’re going to talk about this in our episode today – not from a political perspective, but a Biblical one.Continue Reading

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In this season, we’re discussing social issues – problems that are facing our society and what the Bible has to say about these issues.

Socialism can take various forms, but the most common way it is used today is to describe a particular political ideology. In a nutshell, socialism is the belief that a central, national government ought to oversee and control all aspects of the economy, rather than leaving private businesses and individuals to conduct their business as they see fit. It is rooted in the notion that all property and wealth is to be shared and the national government is the entity which determines how they are to be shared. Of necessity, socialism demands a strong centralized government to be able to function in this way.

Those who argue in favor of socialism will often claim that it is the fairest way for a society to function economically and that it protects individuals from wealthy individuals or big corporations. Many will even attempt to use the Bible in order to defend this idea. One alleged example of socialism that is commonly given is that of the early Christians who sold their property to share with those who were in need (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35).

Mentioned in this episode:

• A 2018 Gallup poll found that 37% of Americans had a positive view of socialism.
• Among young Americans (ages 18-29), 51% have a positive view of socialism compared to 45% who view capitalism positively.
• Civil Government by David Lipscomb
• The Evils of Socialism by W. F. Lemmons

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