S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

The dictionary defines capitalism as "an economic system characterized by private or corporate ownership of capital goods, by investments that are determined by private decision, and by prices, pro...

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July 01 2013 • 4 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Salem Markus Purba Supporter

Capitalism as a kind of economic system of the world is totally different to the economic system of The Bible/The Kingdom of Heaven as mentioned in Treasures of Heaven (Mathew 6: 19-24) and in The Parable of Talents (Mathew 25: 14-30).

In the Bible, having capital means having faith in Jesus (Mathew 17: 20) and saved; without having capital means without having faith in Jesus and perished. (John 3: 16).

November 12 2014 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What does the Bible say about capitalism?

Meaning of capitalism in English

An economic and political system in which property, business, and industry are controlled by private owners rather than by the state, to make a profit:

The Bible does not mention capitalism by name, nor does it establish a particular economic system. Capitalism developed many centuries after the biblical period. 

However, Scripture provides principles about work, property, wealth, stewardship, justice, and generosity that can be used to evaluate any economic system.

One principle found throughout the Bible is the legitimacy of private property. The commandment,

"Thou shalt not steal." (Exodus 20:15)

recognises a person's right to possess what belongs to them. Likewise, laws concerning theft, inheritance, and property boundaries assume individual ownership and personal responsibility.

Scripture also presents work as honourable and productive. Before the Fall, Adam was given responsibility to care for the garden.

"And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it." (Genesis 2:15)

The Bible commends diligence, initiative, and wise resource management.

"The hand of the diligent maketh rich." (Proverbs 10:4)

These principles are often associated with features commonly found in capitalist economies.

The Parable of the Talents also highlights accountability in using resources.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things." (Matthew 25:21)

The servants were expected to manage what they had been entrusted with and produce fruit from it. The parable teaches stewardship rather than economics, yet it affirms responsible management and productivity.

At the same time, Scripture warns strongly against greed and the misuse of wealth.

"Take heed, and beware of covetousness." (Luke 12:15)

The Bible never measures success by financial gain alone. Wealth can become dangerous when it replaces devotion to God.

"For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." (1 Timothy 6:10)

Scripture also insists upon justice in economic relationships.

"The labourer is worthy of his hire." (Luke 10:7)

Workers are to be treated fairly, wages are to be paid honestly, and business practices are to reflect integrity.

"A false balance is an abomination to the Lord." (Proverbs 11:1)

God condemns exploitation, fraud, and oppression regardless of the economic system in which they occur.

Generosity is another major biblical theme. Those who have resources are encouraged to help others and care for those in need.

"Charge them that are rich in this world... that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate." (1 Timothy 6:17-18)

Possessions are viewed as something God entrusted rather than something owned without responsibility.

The early church voluntarily shared resources to meet believers' needs.

"Neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own." (Acts 4:32)

These acts expressed generosity rather than government-enforced redistribution.

In summary, the Bible neither endorses nor condemns capitalism as a system. Scripture supports private property, productive labour, personal responsibility, honest trade, and wise stewardship. It also warns against greed, exploitation, and trust in riches. The biblical focus is not on an economic model but on the character of the people participating in it. God cares that wealth is acquired honestly, managed faithfully, and used in ways that honour Him and benefit others.

8 hours ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report