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… 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, and laid them at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. Acts 4:32, 34-37
There have been those throughout church history who have insisted that Christianity began communally and is supposed to be communal. Or to use a more current term, “socialistic,” or even “communistic.” Is this so?
No.
The believers in the early Church honestly and generously cared for one another, including assisting one another financially and materially. While that may sound like socialism, it most certainly is not. Here is how they are not the same.
Christian charity is about people voluntarily sharing with one another what God has given them. The key word: voluntarily. Christian charity happens as believers esteem others as better than themselves (Philippians 2:3-4), sacrificing for the sake of others. Voluntarily. Christian charity begins in the hearts of individuals.
Socialism is a political/economic system in which governing authorities take from many to give to some. Those from whom resources are taken have no say in the matter. There is no Christian charity, and no volunteerism involved in socialism. It is, rather, the government stealing from some to redistribute wealth to others.(1)
It is popular among socialists in our country to insist, “We’re not talking about that kind of socialism, we’re talking about democratic socialism,” as though that makes it somehow different. Democratic socialism simply means: if we can get enough dissatisfied, covetous people to “vote” to take things from people who have more, that makes it okay.
That is the same as saying, “I’m not a thief,” but it is okay if I elect people who will steal for me.” Stealing is still stealing.
Christian charity is something that all believers do well to engage more in. Why? Not because otherwise the government will take what we are unwilling to give, but because God will judge the hearts of those who are less than generous with HIS possessions that HE has placed in our hands to manage.
Let us remember how much the Lord has blessed us with—and freely give as He has given to us.
Footnote:
(1) One of the political mantras of socialists is that inequality of wealth is bad. Everyone should have the same. Besides the fact that that will never happen, Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-39) clearly reveals that God does not intend for everyone to have the same amount of wealth. He intends for everyone to be a good steward of their God-given wealth.