Post by The Candy Lane on May 20, 2010 23:08:58 GMT -5
Candy Lane, that passage you mentioned from the Bible is more about sacrifice and meaning, not "proportional giving." A millionaire can give away 20% of his yearly earnings (the Bible only asks for 10%), but it may not mean that much to him. Now, someone who makes $20k a year gives away 10% or $2k more makes a bigger sacrifice. Jesus is saying that the $20k person probably gives more sacrificially and more out of their heart.
If you also noticed, the Bible never said anything about the government forcing the charitable giving. We render unto Caesar what is Caesar's, but Caesar doesn't take from the rich and give to the poor.
Caesar didnt give to the poor because the poor were usually his slaves... and if they didnt pay he'd simply have them killed. As the bible verse i qouted, i think i used it because charitable giving came up and that verse acknowledges that those who have much can give much.
This does bring up an interesting point, i know religion is a bit off topic here, but do u believe the wealth is yours or Gods? if its yours then id suggest ud look at an american coin. If you acknowledge its gods gift then how do u think you (and the Government) should use it? to continue building up an economy that benefits just 10% of the populace(Ecc 5:10), or to use it in a godly manner by "caring for orphans and widows in their distress."(James 1:27)?
The bible also says that human society will become more and more self centered -2Tim3- we see this in both the rich wanting more, and the poor wanting more.
It makes sense that those who work hard and employ more people have a higher net income. it also makes sense that those who cant support themselves get some government help.
economic equality will never be achieved, but to argue that the rich should be paying less tax, and that the government should not be taking care of the poor doesnt make sense.
i know my thoughts are scattered... sorry im working to much lol