[Gay State Conservative]

My understanding of Christian teachings (as imperfect and incomplete as it is) suggests that Christ was,to a degree at least,a “socialist”.He made very clear His expectations regarding charitable endeavors.However,He also said “render unto Ceaser” and in that way,IMO,he made it clear that charity needn't be enforced by “Ceaser” nor need it be funneled through him.

[SoConPubbie]

My understanding of Christian teachings (as imperfect and incomplete as it is) suggests that Christ was,to a degree at least,a “socialist”.He made very clear His expectations regarding charitable endeavors.However,He also said “render unto Ceaser” and in that way,IMO,he made it clear that charity needn't be enforced by “Ceaser” nor need it be funneled through him.

No, Christ was not a socialist.

Socialism requires government force to accomplish it's goals.

Christ message and commands were only concerned with the actions of the individual.

[mbarker12474]

> My understanding of Christian teachings (as imperfect and incomplete as it is) suggests that Christ was,to a degree at least,a “socialist”.

Never in 3779 verses of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, does Christ assert that the third party of government should confiscate wealth from party A and give it to party B.

Not only that, but in these 3779 verses, Christ makes ZERO statements concerning how the state and society and community should organize the civic affairs of men with men, in politics or economy or any worldly, civic, manner.

Christ is silent on school boards, city councils, tax rates, neighborhood associations, the Fed, the Laffer Curve, dog catchers, government loans, and all other civic matters and arrangements of men with men.

Christ is interested SOLELY in the salvation of souls.

> He made very clear His expectations regarding charitable endeavors

Yes. Christians are to give. Everything belongs to God. The poor man you see on the street is Christ, and you are measured by how you treat Christ. You are to give up EVERYTHING and follow Christ.