Roger Banks writes an interesting op-ed in today’s DC Examiner arguing that the Bible’s teaches not support the welfare state. He concludes:
Largely unarticulated, however, is the way the entitlement system serves to obviate individual good will. Misguided government efforts to constrain the quality of mercy have a chilling effect on charity, resulting in an increasingly uncompassionate society. The absurd, implied premise of the Bible-quoting liberals is that bigger government is a way to love one’s neighbor. In fact, government programs encourage a life profoundly centered on self, and make us increasingly spectators to the plight of our neighbors.The incongruity between big government theology and the teachings of the Bible is readily apparent. Entitlements place primary importance on material needs. Christ teaches followers to “seek ye first the kingdom of God … and all these things [food, clothing, et al.] will be added unto you.” Whereas the biblical standard requires the gift of faith, welfare subsists on fears that voluntary giving alone would be insufficient.
Welfare proponents also worry about the unfairness of voluntary giving, as many choose not to give. The God of the Bible satisfies material and spiritual needs simultaneously, by conferring blessings on those who give voluntarily and sacrificially.
Yea, that has been largely unarticulated; probably because it makes no sense. One might come off looking like a fool trying to articulate that. The idea that entitlement programs lead us towards and increasingly uncompassionate society and encourage “a life profoundly centered on self” is absurd in theory and unsubstantiated in reality. Do you really think you are less compassionate knowing that government entitlement programs exist? Or that the only thing holding back the deluge of charitable donations, community service activity, and general good will towards man is entitlement programs?
The incongruity between reality and the teachings of the bible is also readily apparent. Also, someone should remind Roger that not all Americans are Christians. If all basic human needs can be met through Christ then I guess Christians don’t need any assistance from private or government charity programs. We can save all that generous charity for the Muslim and Pagan poor.