Central to the wealth motif found abundantly in Moses’ writings, is the source of all wealth. Deuteronomy 8:18 says: “Remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth.” All wealth comes from God and as such, is dependent upon the goodness of God. As a proper foundational piece to the free-market economy, Deuteronomy establishes much more. The ability to produce wealth entails the ability to work to produce that wealth.
Capitalism functions in America not because America is inherently oriented towards a free-market economy, but because Capitalism is symbolic of the Christian view of economics. But simply because it is Christian does not mean that it will always function. Biblical law is Christian, but it certainly is not part of Congress’ concern when they begin in the morning.
Capitalism at its root promotes a dynamic society; a society devoid of laziness and welfare. Christians have been made to operate in such a society. When we are made alive we are made to build, organize, and operate. If a society promotes rewarding those who do not build, organize, and operate, then that society is doomed to utter failure. Lest the idea becomes too individualistic, capitalism is made for the community not for the individual. When the individual becomes the sole proprietor of his version of capitalism it diminishes to self-tyranny. True Capitalism however, engages society by building, organizing, and operating together. This dynamic exchange works for the betterment of society.
