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Capitalism and Christianity Examined
decisions, take action, and thereby maximize value and
satisfaction.
Adam Smith would later attribute such providence to
the
''invisible hand"
of the marketplace. Does the Bible
provide the foundation principles to govern these
economic areas of life? Indeed. Examples abound.
Private property is recognized in the Scriptures. The
book of Proverbs emphasizes and commends hard work
and resourcefulness. Many other references in Proverbs
mandate integrity, fair measurements, and quality
workmanship.
And of the conduct of the master and servant or
employer and employee, what does the Bible say? Look
into Ephe.sians chapter 6; we are to conduct ourselves
·~
..as unto the Lord.... "
What'else can be found in over
2000 Scriptural references? Both testaments contain
examples which . condemn such vices (greed,
oppression, lust, dishonesty, laziness, theft) which
violate the charge over all things that man was given,
as recorded in Genesis chapter 1.
Are there other ad.monitions? Yes, the Bible is also
foursquare in favor of the noble qualities (hard work,
honesty, generosity, fairness) which make for good
living, good business, good economics and, of course,
good sense. Beyond that, the Scriptures mandate as
good religion a caring, giving love for mankind,
especially those whom we find have not been able to
benefit from the general prosperity.
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