Role Confusion

I was recently asked a question regarding Jesus and politics. The question went something like this, "Would Jesus be a Socialist?" This is not a question that can simply be dismissed, nor can it be assumed the answer is a resounding yes. Without too much depth I think we can come to some important conclusions about this subject.

Many believe that since Jesus was so concerned about helping the poor or less fortunate that government programs which do these things are Biblical. It is true that Jesus was concerned about the poor as He was all people. It is also true that He sometimes chastised people for their lack of concern. There is one ingredient that must not be overlooked. Jesus did not attempt to change the government, instead he was concerned about people's heart. When Jesus commanded the Rich Young Ruler to give what he had to the poor it was not because Jesus believed the man had too much money and it wasn't fair. Instead Jesus told him to give what he had to the poor because the rich man valued his possessions too much. Jesus was not suggesting that the man be forced to give what he had to the poor rather that he willingly and joyfully give what he had. This is consistent with Paul's exhortation to be joyful givers.

In the past few years I have seen many people make what I believe is a significant mistake regarding the role of government in helping the poor or those who have had misfortune. Jesus teaching about compassion and love towards those who are less fortunate in some way is for the church, not the government. The government does not promote joyful and compassionate giving, it promotes forced and resentful redistribution of wealth. I don't want to dive too far into the political side of things, but it seems to me that forced compassion is no compassion at all.

When we allow the government to begin taking on these roles, we diminish the opportunity the church has to fill this very role. We take away ministry opportunities, and perhaps even opportunities to share the gospel. We make it easy for the church to become complacent. Some times a "good thing" or a "good program" in the wrong place or for the wrong motivation becomes less than good. Role confusion is not a small matter, it is actually very significant.