Category: Worldviews
Christian Worldview Research Worksheet
(Douglas Goodin, 2005)
Worldview Area: Economics
Selected attribute of God that is critical to this area: Owner
Two key verses revealing this attribute: Psalm 50:10; Psalm 104:24
Selected attribute of man that is critical to understanding this area: Steward
Two key verses revealing this attribute: Luke 16:10ff. & 2 Cor. 9:5,6
Describe the importance of the attributes in understanding this worldview area. Include any other primary truth revealed in the Scriptures regarding this area (principles, observations, examples, etc.):
God is the owner of everything, therefore, men should recognize that their possessions are not really theirs, but are "on loan" from God. Consequently, we must follow God’s stipulations for dealing with property.
The Biblical Christian worldview position on this area:
Men have been granted the privilege of using and enjoying God’s property. But this privilege comes with the responsibility to manage it according to His instructions. He has established the right to own property and the prohibition against taking the property of others. As steward-owners, men should use their possessions to increase profit in order to give to those who have need. The economic model closest to biblical principles is capitalism.
Our Culture’s worldview position on this area:
Capitalism is supported by many in our culture, however the philosophers of today who maintain humanistic ideologies gravitate toward socialism. Property rights and wealth are antithetical to the greater human cause. It is not appropriate to allow a few individuals to enjoy opulence when the majority of humans are at a financial disadvantage. Many politicians adopt a humanistic worldview, and therefore believe it is their duty to take money from the haves and give it to the have-nots.