In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus identifies himself with the hungry, the poor, the sick, and the prisoners. That passage is considered a major aspect of Christianity and is the cornerstone of Christian socialism. Another key statement in the New Testament that is an important component of Christian socialism is Luke 10:25-37 that follows the statement "You shall love your neighbour as yourself" with the question "And who is my neighbour?", and in the Parable of the Good Samaritan Jesus gives the revolutionary response that the neighbour includes anyone in need, even people we might be expected to shun.
Socialism owes more to the Bible than Marx.
Acts 4, verse 32:
"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions were his own, but they shared everything they had."and Acts 4, verses 34 and 35:
"There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from their sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need."John Chrysostom explained his attitude towards the rich and wealth by saying:
I am often reproached for continually attacking the rich. Yes, because the rich are continually attacking the poor. But those I attack are not the rich as such, only those who misuse their wealth. I point out constantly that those I accuse are not the rich, but the rapacious; wealth is one thing, covetousness another. Learn to distinguish.
Why would anyone be offended by the mythological equivalent of a science fiction or fantasy action figure holding a weapon? Are you seriously against science fiction merchandising?
ReplyDeleteSo, you're a proud atheist gun nut. Is that it? You do realize that many gun owners are fundamentalist religious nuts, right?
DeleteIf we where to venture down the dark and winding path of irrelevance, I should note that most humans are subject to this particular delusion.
DeleteHow should your prejudice in any way affect my actions?
An equivalent to your statement would be to say that many gun control activists are racists who believe in Voodoo. Would you take that seriously?
Fanatical religious beliefs and fanatical gun-rights beliefs often go together. You've heard the old, "God, guns and country" nonsense, right? It's you gun nuts that photoshopped the images of Jesus with guns. Our side mocks you for it.
DeleteWell... Speaking of being offended.
ReplyDeleteAs a lucky six-year old who was actually given the original G.I. Joe on his birthday, I do find the sickening downward slide of American culture rather hideous. There are certain things that have happened which one would never willingly choose to witness.
Dad thought it was a little bit pussy to play with dolls. But I loved my G.I. Joe. I had a deep sea diving suit for him. I played in the sand box and out in the chaparral. Eventually, his left arm broke off at the elbow. I was pretty sad. But this really nice older girl said, "Just pretend that he was injured in battle!" That kind of thing always restores the old faith.
Man, you've got a good memory. I can't remember my childhood so clearly.
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