Was Yahshua a Capitalist? (Page 1 of 17)

Introduction As followers of Messiah we look to the pages of the Bible

to help us frame our attitude and actions as we live this earthly existence.

An interesting question that comes out now and then… usually framed as “What would Jesus do?”

This kind of question sometimes expands to something akin to “Would He approve of my actions… my thoughts… my beliefs”.

It even gets in to the realm of politics and economics. President Trump has been in office for 2 weeks now. The protests have already begun. In many aspects it’s basically a battle of Right versus

Left… Conservative versus Liberal. Some may say that Jesus, or more appropriately Yahshua,

would approve of their political views; “He’d be a Democrat” or “He’d be a Republican”.

Some might ask about His approval of our two prime economic philosophies; Capitalism and Socialism, or maybe some variant of the two.

Need to understand the differences in the two. Capitalism: an economic system characterized by private

or corporate ownership of capital goods, by investments that are determined by private decisions. It also promotes that the pricing, production, and distribution of goods are determined mainly by competition within a free market.

Socialism: a political and economic theory of social organization that advocates that the means of production, distribution, and exchange should be owned or regulated by the community as a whole; as a way of organizing a society in which major industries are owned and controlled by the

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government rather than by individual people and companies.

In general, our American economy is a mixture of both. Capitalism relies on and focuses on the efforts of the

individual for economic growth and prosperity. Socialism, on the other hand, relies on and focuses on the

efforts of the community as a whole. Socialism, as practiced today, is in fact a relatively modern

construct, being around for ~200 years, and is definitely not a biblical mandate.

The question to consider, then, is whether socialism is compatible with teachings of the Bible, and not whether the Bible mandates socialism.

At the same time, the question would apply to Capitalism.

The Verses They Use People on both sides of the political spectrum demonstrate

an uncanny use of selected Bible passages to trumpet secular economic platforms.

It’s fascinating how frequently they re-make Messiah in their image to make their platforms palatable to the masses.

One recent argument was made that there is a moral obligation to take in any and all who wish to immigrate… legal or otherwise… and that those coming here have a moral obligation to demand their entry into this country.

One verse often used is Galatians 5:14: For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

But how does one “love your neighbor?” Socialists like to turn to Acts 4 to push a “communal

property” perspective. Acts 4:32-37:

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32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.

33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Yahshua. And great grace was upon them all.

34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,

35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus,

37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

A similar example is presented Acts 2:44-47, where many were converted, sold all they had, and followed the teachings of the apostles.

Were these examples of voluntarily acts on the part of believers, or were they coerced to do so; even from a governmental oversight standpoint?

Socialists also point to Matthew 25, verses 34-46, to show that we must “feed the hungry”, “quench the thirst of the thirsty”, “house the stranger”, “clothe the naked” “visit the sick” and “visit those in prison” to inherit the kingdom of Yahweh.

They conclude with Matthew 25:45: Then He will answer them, saying, “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did

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not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.”

The point being made by socialists is that by doing these things to others we do it at the direct order of our Messiah.

True enough, but did He mandate a governmental oversight approach to make it happen?

Again, did those mentioned earlier do so voluntarily or did a government or religious entity oversee and coordinate it?

Today, politicians expand power by sowing discontent with our worldly estates relative to others.

Yet the Bible calls this covetousness. Demagogues encourage jealousy to justify looting

taxpayers. In doing so they violate the 8th and 10th (i.e. – stealing and covetousness) commandments through programs enabling recipients to avoid the 4th

Commandment’s requirement of work (Exodus 20:9: Six days you shall labor and do all your work).

But is there more to this than what some espouse?

Is Being Rich “Evil”? Are the rich evil? Many think so. But is it true? Ever hear “hey need to pay their “fair share”? Some say that Ananias and his wife Sapphira “got what

was coming to them” for being rich. Acts 5:1-10 tells us the story. But was their sin that they were rich? Or was it that they

lied (Commandment #9) about the transfer of payment to the community.

Verse 4 tells us the problem: While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own

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control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to Elohim.”

Similar things are said about the rich young man in Mark 10:17-23.

After asking Yahshua in verse 17 “what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”, Yahshua responded to him in verse 21: Then Yahshua, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

The rich young man left disappointed in verse 22: But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

Yahshua’s response was in verse 23: Then Yahshua looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of Elohim!”

The question then becomes; was it because he was rich? No! It was because he loved his riches so much that it was an idol to him… holding him back!

The desire for riches… not necessarily the acquisition of… leads to temptation and snares. I Timothy 6:10: For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28 tell us that prosperity is ours… if we obey Yahweh… fully. And if we don’t, then we will be cursed toward our eventual destruction.

Yahweh is, in fact, the source of all wealth; He owns everything; we are simply borrowers of that wealth. Deuteronomy 8:18: And you shall remember Yahweh your

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Elohim, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Yahweh wants you to prosper… not only you, but everyone!

The idea that “rich” is automatically as sin is not valid!

Helping Others The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37) is a

well known example of coming to the aid of another. This man, an “enemy” to the Jews, helped a Jew, being

ignored by other Jews, and made sure the man was taken care of.

Other scriptures to help us understand helping others: I John 3:17: But whoever has this world’s goods, and

sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of Elohim abide in him?

Luke 3:11: <Yahshua> answered and said to them, “He who has two tunics, let him give to him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise.”

Does this mean we need to enforce coverage of need in all cases?

It interesting that the one time it was recorded when Yahshua was asked to support redistribution of wealth… to tell one brother to share the family inheritance with the other… Yahshua refused. Luke 12:13-15: 13 Then one from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell

my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or

an arbitrator over you?”

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15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

Yahshua told them to personally… as individuals… work out that situation, and warned what could result without their resolving their differences.

As far as helping the poor, there are many scriptures that speak to our approach. Deuteronomy 15:7-8, 11: 7 If there is among you a poor man of your brethren,

within any of the gates in your land which Yahweh your Elohim is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor brother,

8 but you shall open your hand wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, whatever he needs.

11 For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, “You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land.”

But being poor does not necessarily mean you can’t work your way out of that state. Those capable of work must do so, and should work for their livelihood. II Thessalonians 3:7-10: 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us,

for we were not disorderly among you; 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but

worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you,

9 not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us.

10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.

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In fact, laziness leads to poverty. Proverbs 6:6-11: 6 Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be

wise, 7 Which, having no captain, Overseer or ruler, 8 Provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her

food in the harvest. 9 How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will

you rise from your sleep? 10 A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the

hands to sleep. 11 So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and

your need like an armed man.

Everyone’s Responsibility So… whose responsibility is it to help the poor? The so-

called “rich”? Sure, but the poor and those directly associated with them also carry a big responsibility.

Many so called “poor” don’t see it that way. Mention well off friend who believes the federal

government must supply for the needs of her mentally disabled sister.

Families are to support their own. I Timothy 5:8: But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Widows are not to become dependent on others. The first source of support is her family. I Timothy 5:4-5: 4 But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let

them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before Elohim.

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5 Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in Elohim and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.

A real widow has no children or grandchildren to support them. Also, any young widow should not become a burden on anyone other than a husband. I Timothy 5:9-14: 9 Do not let a widow under 60 years old be taken into

the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man,

10 well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work.

11 But refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Messiah, they desire to marry,

12 having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith.

13 And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not.

14 Therefore I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

15 For some have already turned aside after Satan. 16 If any believing man or woman has widows, let them

relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows.

Younger widows should remarry rather than be a burden on the church (or government).

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The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) is an example of how we should approach our work ethic.

After a positive response to the 1st 2 servants, each making the best effort with their talents, respectively, the 3rd servant was severely reprimanded for his lack of effort. Matthew 25:24-28: 24 Then he who had received the one talent came and

said, “Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.

25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.”

26 But his lord answered and said to him, “You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.

27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.

28 Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.

Other scriptures reinforce the idea that an able-bodied individual must put forth the effort supply for their own needs. Proverbs 13:4: The soul of a lazy man desires, and has

nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich. Proverbs 18:9: He who is slothful in his work is a

brother to him who is a great destroyer. Colossians 3:23: Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to

Yahweh and not to men.

Shemittah

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One economic stabilizer that Yahweh put in place for Ancient Israel was a recurring “reset” of the overall economy.

We understand the importance of the weekly Sabbath; 6 days work, followed by the Sabbath rest.

There are others Sabbaths. One is the Shemittah (meaning “to release”); also called the sabbatical year; the final year of the 7-year agricultural cycle for the Land of Israel.

The latest calculated Shemittah lunar year has recent concluded; September 25, 2014 through September 13, 2015.

One aspect of the Shemittah year was to allow the land to rest; a Sabbath for the land. Exodus 23:10-11 10 Six years you shall sow your land and gather in its

produce, 11 but the seventh year you shall let it rest and lie fallow,

that the poor of your people may eat; and what they leave, the beasts of the field may eat. In like manner you shall do with your vineyard and your olive grove.

Similar instructions are in Leviticus 25:1-5. Those instructions also say “no agricultural activities”… no sowing, no fertilizing, no reaping, no pruning… at least, not for you!

The poor, however, may make use of anything they find during that year.

So, what does the farmer… the olive harvester… the grape producer… do for food? Leviticus 25:6-7, 20-22: 6 And the Sabbath produce of the land shall be food for

you: for you, your male and female servants, your hired man, and the stranger who dwells with you,

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7 for your livestock and the beasts that are in your land-all its produce shall be for food.

20 And if you say, “What shall we eat in the 7th year, since we shall not sow nor gather in our produce?”

21 Then I will command My blessing on you in the 6 th

year, and it will bring forth produce enough for 3 years. 22 And you shall sow in the 8th year, and eat old produce

until the 9th year; until its produce comes in, you shall eat of the old harvest.

Not adhering to this commandment has lead to disaster for mankind: The 1930’s dust bowl in America. The need for crop rotations; growing a series of

dissimilar/different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons; helping in reducing soil erosion and increasing soil fertility and crop yield.

The other purpose of the Sabbatical year… the Shemittah… is to restore possession of personal property… land, animals, etc… to their original owners.

It’s called the “year of release”. Deuteronomy 15:1-5: 1 At the end of every 7 years you shall grant a release

<Shemittah> of debts. 2 And this is the form of the release: Every creditor who

has lent anything to his neighbor shall release it; he shall not require it of his neighbor or his brother, because it is called Yahweh’s release.

3 Of a foreigner you may require it; but you shall give up your claim to what is owed by your brother,

4 Except when there may be no poor among you; for Yahweh will greatly bless you in the land which Yahweh your Elohim is giving you to possess as an inheritance.

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5 Only if you carefully obey the voice of Yahweh your Elohim, to observe with care all these commandments which I command you today.

What is the affect? There will not be a runaway separation between the highest and the lower economic classes.

But won’t that also lead to no one ever gaining wealth for their personal efforts over time?

Will it also not allow for the overall wealth of the people to grow over time?

Not at all! Deuteronomy 15:9-10: 9 Beware lest there be a wicked thought in your heart,

saying, “The 7th year, the year of release, is at hand,” and your eye be evil against your poor brother and you give him nothing, and he cry out to Yahweh against you, and it become sin among you.

10 You shall surely give to him, and your heart should not be grieved when you give to him, because for this thing Yahweh your Elohim will bless you in all your works and in all to which you put your hand.

The economy would and will not stagnate; and you, individually, will be blessed!

The Shemittah year waives all outstanding debts between debtors and creditors.

The Jubilee Year If that’s not enough, there’s one other Sabbath to consider.

Leviticus 25:8-13: 8 And you shall count seven Sabbaths of years for

yourself, 7 times 7 years; and the time of the 7 Sabbaths of years shall be to you 49 years.

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9 Then you shall cause the trumpet of the Jubilee to sound on the 10th day of the 7th month; on the Day of Atonement you shall make the trumpet to sound throughout all your land.

10 And you shall consecrate the 50th year, and proclaim liberty throughout all the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a Jubilee for you; and each of you shall return to his possession, and each of you shall return to his family.

11 That 50th year shall be a Jubilee to you; in it you shall neither sow nor reap what grows of its own accord, nor gather the grapes of your untended vine.

12 For it is the Jubilee; it shall be holy to you; you shall eat its produce from the field.

13 In this Year of Jubilee, each of you shall return to his possession.

Just as in the Shemittah year, adjustments and other rules were to be made between debtors and creditors. Leviticus 25:14-16, 23-24: 14 And if you sell anything to your neighbor or buy from

your neighbor’s hand, you shall not oppress one another.

15 According to the number of years after the Jubilee you shall buy from your neighbor, and according to the number of years of crops he shall sell to you.

16 According to the multitude of years you shall increase its price, and according to the fewer number of years you shall diminish its price; for he sells to you according to the number of the years of the crops.

23 The land shall not be sold permanently, for the land is Mine; for you are strangers and sojourners with Me.

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24 And in all the land of your possession you shall grant redemption of the land.

What if someone wants to buy back what he sold? What if a friend or relative wants to? Leviticus 25:25-28: 25 If one of your brethren becomes poor, and has sold

some of his possession, and if his redeeming relative comes to redeem it, then he may redeem what his brother sold.

26 Or if the man has no one to redeem it, but he himself becomes able to redeem it,

27 then let him count the years since its sale, and restore the remainder to the man to whom he sold it, that he may return to his possession.

28 But if he is not able to have it restored to himself, then what was sold shall remain in the hand of him who bought it until the Year of Jubilee; and in the Jubilee it shall be released, and he shall return to his possession.

Conclusion The Bible shows us that Yahweh has rules…

commandments… far beyond what we are willing to obey and follow… as to how we should conduct our affairs economically.

The Shemittah and Jubilee years highlight the need for, and observance of, all of Yahweh’s Sabbaths, not only the weekly Sabbath.

Not observing these Sabbaths have consequences. For example, the United States had heavy economic

downturns most recently leading into the years 1880, 1930 and 1980… all 50 years apart. A coincident?

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Yahshua did believed that the government had an important, yet limited, role in society.

That’s why He said in Matthew 22:21 “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to Elohim the things that are Elohim’s.”

Notice that He didn’t say “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are yours”.

His main purpose, while as a human being on the earth, was to proclaim the Gospel… the Good News of the kingdom of Yahweh… not to organize soup kitchens.

That does not absolve our responsibility to help others were we can financially.

Yahshua says in Matthew 26:11 that “you have the poor with you always.” This was also stated in the OT.

True capitalism has its problems because of the inherent greed of individuals; many times going beyond fair practices to gain an unfair advantage.

True socialism also has its problems because of “reward for-effort”… why should I work hard just to give it to someone else not also willing to work.

There are plenty of people who need help… because it’s beyond their capability to help themselves.

But there are many, many more that can help themselves. They have learned to scam the system... and in most cases… become totally dependent on it.

So… back to the original question… was Yahshua a Capitalist or a Socialist?

The answer is… neither. Hebrews 12:2 tells us that He is “the author and finisher of our faith.”

His standards are not our standards.

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If we were to truly and fully follow what He taught, then our economy would be so prosperous… so blessed… so abundant… that no one would ever be in want.

There will be no need to use terms such as conservative or liberal, right wing or left wing, Republican or Democrat… because all will follow the righteous commandments of Yahweh!