Cody Libolt

The king’s strength also loveth judgment; thou dost establish equity. -Psalm 99:4a

Americans place a high value on equality, and rightly so. But what is equality? Is it the same as egalitarianism? Social justice? As we see in Psalm 99:4, a righteous judge favors neither the poor nor the rich, but deals equitably with all. People have the right to equal treatment under the law, not equal lifestyle. That is what the concept “equity” means: impartiality.

Some suppose that “fairness” involves taking from the rich and giving to the poor. With this as a supposition, it is understandable that they would misconstrue Scripture through a socialist lens. But Scripture speaks of equity.

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)

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.

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.

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.