This was a short book on economic and the Christian Worldview. I enjoyed the distinction that it pointed out several times throughout the book regarding capitalism and socialism. There is a difference between the two and this book gives a good breakdown between them both.
The way in which the economy works here in America is not 100% capitalism, it is a mixture because the US Government is so large and certainly has quite a bit of involvement where it absolutely should not. Fair and free interactions in the market place is necessary in order to have a true capitalist economy.
Many people have the wrong definition of capitalism and it often carries a negative connotation with that definition. However as I read through this excellent short book, it pointed out the actual truth to disclaim the myth.
Capitalism is a mechanism that allows natural human desires to be satisfied in a nonviolent way. I love that definition. It is very accurate in my opinion. No police need to get involved, no regulations, no rules, just the free exchange, no coercion and violence.
Both Dr. Nash and Dr. Gills did an excellent job with this “manifesto” on Biblical economics it contains lots of biblical wisdom and common sense as well. Common sense is something very rare and if you have it nowadays you have solid gold let me tell you. This book encourages me to invest in learning more and more about the US economy and to properly apply what I learn to my everyday life and work to invest smartly in my future.
I love hard work, I refuse to rely on public assistance and hands out when I absolutely do not need them. I discourage others from becoming reliant on others and the Government as well. Much of this book covers how important it is for men, working age, able men in America must stand up and be the men of our community and society that work hard, earn and honest day’s pay/wage and provide for our family and be a contributing member of our society.
Only then can we truly build and strong economy with very little government involvement. This book started me to thinking about the overall church structure as it was from the very beginning in the United States. Historically, the church took the lead in the United States. Education, finance, commerce, health care, welfare, etc.
The church of today (in my opinion) has pushed back on many of it’s historical responsibilities which in my opinion has given the US Government strength, growth, and encouragement. The church should take the lead on many of the welfare (entitlement) programs that are in existence today. Older Americans, widows, orphans, unwed mothers, and under represented groups of people with disabilities should be the primary concern of our churches and charity groups with very little government involvement, but that is not the care.
Our government today has major agencies that handle older populations, disabled and special needs populations, and orphans that are in need of homes and education. I am disappointed in the church overall, but I plan to do my part to make a difference where I can and this book encouraged me to do so!
Really good book!
