Socialism is a political system that has ebbed and flowed in geopolitics since the late 1800’s. Its various forms range from labor class organizations to Marxism to Fascism to full-on Communism. Leaders of socialism or the regimes themselves are recognized as anti-religion and are often criminally or even violently opposed to any public display of worship…even possessing a Bible.
As such, an article that argues six Bible passages “that are blatantly socialist” is a perfect place to start for the Bible Study Framework. Let’s check out the six plus one more in Acts that is often connected to the movement.
“The first requisite for the happiness of the people is the abolition of religion.”
“From each according to his ability, to each according to his needs”
How Scripture answers "Is socialism in the Bible?"
None of these passages1,2,3,4,5,6,7 are speaking about or advocating for socialism. It’s true that the Bible advocates for charity, sharing, and community, as some of these passages point out6,7. However, these individual qualities are taught outside of any political system, including socialism. Understanding “Christian charity” is driven by the Christian’s call to view worldly possessions subordinate to God1,2,3,4. The Christian’s faith, hope and trust are in God alone1,3,5,6.
Answer built on scripture-blocks below
1
Jesus was teaching that nobody (rich or poor) was able to enter heaven (“kingdom of God”) on their own. He is not condeming the rich.
2
Jesus quotes from a passage in Isaiah (56:7) to reset the purpose for God’s holy temple. He is not against the commerce per se, only that it is conducted in a holy place and sanctuary for worship to God.
3
“Money” here is a stand-in for physical possessions or, as Jesus’ sermon in full context is introducing, the spiritual over/against the physical. He’s not condemning wealth or money with this statement, simply illustrating one’s service (bowing down) to one or the other.
Luke has an account of this same/similar sermon4. There he records the same point with different wording (6:24) – “But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.” Again, if possessions in this life are your god then you have received your reward already.
4
Jesus is making the point to love your enemies and don’t return a “wrong for a wrong” and the broader point is that the Christian should be looking the God/heaven for their spiritual reward.
5
God’s prophecy through Isaiah of the ultimate sovereignty of God and an eventual installation of one to judge among all people (e.g. “nations”). This same vision of “swords” and “plowshares” is noted by three prophets in total making its meaning of the two outcomes for God’s final judgement rather clear — either peace with God (for the righteous) or war/conflict with God (for the unrighteous).
!! scripture-block context extra important here !!
6
Jesus’ message is a spiritual one, announcing the kingdom of God in the early days of his ministry. “Inherit the earth/land” spiritually applied is the inheritance of heaven promised to all the faithful who obey until the end.
7
The new group of Christians shared with each other of their means, but more broadly had all things in common spiritually. This was the “fellowship” they enjoyed in the context (vss 42-47).
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