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What arguments have been offered as to how Christianity is incompatible with a system of forced collectivism?

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Communism, as formulated by Karl Marx, incorporates several ideas including state mandated atheism, a removal of social classes, and a collective economic system. Of these, the first is obviously incompatible with Christianity. However, it is sometimes said that the second two are similar to Christianity. This question focuses only on the last idea - a collective economic system where private property no longer exists in any meaningful way. The first-century church, as described in Acts, does seem to embrace this idea in some ways. For example, Acts 2:45: > And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. (ESV) However, this was a voluntary act. While voluntary collectivism is thus encouraged, this is perhaps different than forced collectivism, as practiced under communism. Even in the story of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) where the couple die not for failing to share their property, Peter implies that it would be morally acceptable to keep some property ("And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal?") - the couple died for their deception, not their lack of complete generosity. Among Christian theologians or denominations who view (forced) collectivism as incompatible with Christianity, what theological/moral arguments against it have been offered?
Asked by ThaddeusB (7891 rep)
Oct 1, 2015, 05:51 PM
Last activity: Nov 2, 2015, 11:21 PM