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Is Redistribution of Wealth Biblical?

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The concept of wealth and its redistribution is a significant topic in contemporary discourse, often framed as a solution to economic inequality. Socialists argue for equal distribution of wealth, viewing disparity as a sign of social injustice that must be corrected by taking from the rich to give to the poor, based on the notion of a 'zero sum game' where wealth is finite. They believe that if someone is rich, it must be at the expense of others, necessitating laws to balance economic disparities. In contrast, the biblical perspective does not advocate for equality in wealth or possessions. Instead, it emphasizes equity, which is impartiality, justice, and legal fairness. God judges with equity, treating all fairly under the same law without partiality, as seen in various scriptures. Equity allows freedom to prosper using individual skills and blessings, whereas equality, understood as sameness of outcome, can repress individual success. God does not mandate that everyone be on the same economic level. Throughout life, individuals experience ups and downs in wealth and status, and God uses these circumstances to teach lessons and build character. He works with both the rich and the poor, as exemplified by figures like Abraham, who was immensely wealthy, and Elijah, who relied on minimal provisions. In the church, disparities exist as well, with members of varying economic standings united as one body, yet not forced into a common pot of resources. Scriptural teachings encourage giving freely and generously, not under compulsion. Paul advises the rich to be ready to give and willing to share, using their wealth as a tool for growth, while the poor can learn sacrificial giving and trust in God, as seen in the widow's offering. The early church's sharing of resources was a temporary, voluntary act to meet urgent needs, not a form of communism, as individuals retained control over their possessions. Even in the Kingdom of God, inequality will persist, as illustrated in the Parable of the Minas, where rewards are given based on individual effort and growth, not equal distribution. God does not support forced redistribution of wealth or social equality but desires that we work profitably and give generously of our own accord to those in need.

Is This How to Fix a Broken Economy?

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Under the Obama Administration, the United States has shifted away from maintaining economic power as a prime directive, focusing instead on achieving fairness at home through the redistribution of wealth. President Obama, as promised during his campaign, is engaged in redistributing the nation's wealth, not based on merit, hard work, or diligence, but by selecting winners and losers to right past wrongs and even the score for the downtrodden. This approach aligns with socialist principles, where the state controls the means of production and distribution, leading to a loss of individual freedoms and the rise of a ruling elite that amasses power, wealth, and privilege while others share what little remains.

Housing and Property Redistribution

Commentary by Martin G. Collins

God intended that the land remain within families, to be passed down through generations. If poverty forced an Israelite to sell their land, it could be redeemed by a relative or returned to the family during the Year of Jubilee. In the Millennium, God will ensure that everyone's land is secure, with property rights unchangeable and unbreakable, based on the laws in the first five books of the Bible. These laws, including the redemption of property in the Year of Jubilee, will be re-established and maintained, reverting land to its original owners. God will bring His people back to their own land, restoring it to peace and prosperity like the Garden of Eden. Every man will sit under his privately owned vine and fig tree, as stated in Micah 4:4. The right use of land and understanding of property will teach profound lessons about the relationship between people and God, showing the abundance and good that God's way produces. With God's Spirit, we can discern the difference between God's approach to property rights and the world's lack thereof, learning lessons of stewardship, obligation, and authority to become more like Him and prepare for great responsibility in His Kingdom.

Socialism's Inherent Contradiction

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Socialist policy, often presented as beneficial through measures like universal healthcare and welfare, appears to support the old, poor, infirm, and disadvantaged with necessary aid. However, beneath these good intentions, socialism operates as a controlling force, seeking to pillage and enslave nations while expanding governmental power. Instead of allowing individuals the liberty to make decisions for themselves, their families, and their nation, socialism insists that an elite group of government experts and bureaucrats should dictate those choices.

The Last Throes of Capitalism

Commentary by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

In this emerging hybrid economic system, wealth, power, and control are increasingly concentrated in the hands of the government, particularly under the current administration. President Obama has radically redistributed the nation's wealth, not based on merit or hard work, but by selecting winners and losers to right past wrongs and balance disparities for the disadvantaged. The government now takes a significant portion of income, often half or more, for redistribution to others or for its own initiatives, with a progressive tax regime that penalizes higher earners. This shift diminishes the individual liberties and choices inherent in a capitalist system, as government permission is required for nearly every action, from driving a car to starting a business. As this command and control economy takes shape, the American way of life is transforming, moving toward a state of dependency on governmental authority.

A Wide Separation

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

In addressing the inequities of our time, the issue of wealth redistribution stands out as a significant concern. It is a sin to charge one group of people more in taxes than another, as fairness demands one price for everybody. God believes in a flat tax, as exemplified by the tithe, which is 10% for all, whether one earns millions or far less. Graduated tax rates, where the successful are charged more, do not sit well with God. The government should not act as a Robin Hood, taking from the rich to give to the poor through legalized stealing of wealth. If wealth is accumulated illegally, it should be addressed legally, but if through discipline and careful management, a family should not be forced to pay a higher tax rate. Additionally, stark contrasts in assistance highlight further inequities, such as a Vietnam veteran on disability struggling in a financial loop where earnings are deducted from his pension, while others, including illegal immigrants and refugees, receive substantial tax-free stipends and benefits, far exceeding what a laborer earns after taxes. These disparities reveal a profound lack of righteous judgment in the handling of wealth and resources.

Biblical Finance

CGG Weekly by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The Bible is not an economic text, but it does include financial principles that all should know and follow as well as they are able. Here are a few.

Jumping Into the Shallow Pond (Part Two)

'Ready Answer' by Charles Whitaker

Communism presents itself as high-minded in its redistribution of wealth, producing prosperity for all. However, reality belies collectivist theory.

In the Wake of an Unnatural Disaster (Part Eleven)

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Socialism is a cancerous evil, robbing from the productive and giving to the unproductive, destroying all incentives for growth or real productivity.

Set Up For Success

Sermonette by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Richard Ritenbaugh acknowledges that young people display a proclivity to accept socialism, oblivious to the horrendous damage socialist experiments have brought to the world. Politicians of the ilk of Bernie Sanders have fomented hatred toward capitalism by comparing it to an imaginary utopia. Economist Walter Williams insists that the free market, with all its warts, is far superior to collectivism at protecting people from poverty. Poverty is not usually an economic issue but stems from ethical and moral deficits. Socialism simply transfers wealth to the leaders of a government, leaving most of the citizenry in greater poverty. Williams, in his article, "Do These Four Things to Avoid Poverty," suggests that a young person, to keep his nose above poverty or failure, needs to (1.) complete high school, (2.) get a job, (3.) get married before having children, and (4.) be a law-abiding citizen. Poverty is self-caused—not the result of society, bad laws or systemic bigotry. Young people who drop out of school, take drugs, and fornicate set themselves up for failure. The law is no problem for those who obey it, but it will break those who break it, making it difficult to rebound.

A "Gimme" Nation

Commentary by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The noble trait of self-sufficiency, long associated with the American spirit, has sadly been eclipsed by a spoiled brat, whiney, 'gimme' welfare mentality.

The Myth of Fairness

Commentary by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The term 'fairness' when used by progressives means guaranteeing equal outcome by taking from the productive and giving to the unproductive.

Did the Early Church Practice Socialism? (Part One)

CGG Weekly by David C. Grabbe

Many Americans advocate some form of socialism, allowing the government to regulate greater areas of everyday life. Does the Bible support this idea?

In the Wake of an Unnatural Disaster (Part Ten)

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

No longer do we have a true representative democracy, but a small group of wealthy elite are pulling the strings, transforming our government.

Was the Early Church Socialist or Communist?

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

The apostles never required converts to give up property as a precondition for church membership. Rather, the members voluntarily gave, retaining ownership.

Jumping Into the Shallow Pond (Part One)

'Ready Answer' by Charles Whitaker

In an age when globalism is a reality, when immediate contact with far-flung peoples occurs every day, answering 'Who is my neighbor?' is a vital necessity.

The Perils of Populism

'WorldWatch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Americans have rushed to support various populist candidates for President, but history proves that populism has a tendency to spin out of control.

South Africa's Land Confiscation

Commentary by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The sinister handwriting is on the wall for South Africa, hell-bent to follow the same Marxist principles which destroyed Zimbabwe.

Mightier Than the Sword (Part Six)

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Rousseau's malignant ideas have metastasized into a virulent cancer of collectivism, socialism and Communism, the centralization of power.

Another Step Further

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

The leadership of the current government is enacting Executive orders to box in the citizenry, preparing to restrict the movements of all enemies of the State.

The Nanny Church (Part One)

CGG Weekly by David C. Grabbe

Jesus does not want 'serving' through iron-fisted control and ruling by fear, nor does He mean 'benevolently' doing for them what they can do for themselves.

Whatever Became of Sin?

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. Maas

Jesus Christ did not preach collective salvation and did not remove the responsibility from any of us for overcoming or qualifying for His kingdom.

The Commandments (Part Seventeen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Wealth accumulated by honest work and diligence will be blessed, but hastily acquired by any kind of theft or dishonesty will be cursed.

Do Americans Value Liberty?

CGG Weekly by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Younger Americans have been spoiled by the sacrifices of preceding generations, and many do not realize the responsibilities freedom imposes. Freedom is not free.

Politics and Christ's Return

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Because we are set apart by God, we are not to become involved in the world's political, judicial, or military systems. Our term in office has yet to begin.