Nothing Comes for Free
“Nothing comes for free.” Those words echo in my mind every time I share my excitement about something I got without paying. I’d push back with, “But it was free for me,” only to be reminded that someone had to cover the cost.
This perspective resonates with the 40 million Americans relying on food stamps and government support. To them, it seems “free,” yet it’s funded by hard-working taxpayers like you. A government that can provide for you can just as easily take it all away.
In theory, socialism appears generous, but history and human behavior tell a different story.
Socialism has gained traction again, particularly after the recent New York mayoral election, where Zoran Mamdani has emerged as a proponent, portraying it as glamorous.
Adding to the mix, some progressive Christians now argue that socialism aligns with biblical teachings, referencing Acts 2 as a justification. They advocate for feeding the hungry and sharing resources. While these sentiments are commendable, it’s ironic that many who champion these ideas rarely give up their own possessions.
But who exactly is “we” in this context of Acts 2?
The answer is straightforward: the church, not the state.
Acts 2 unfolds during Pentecost when Jerusalem was teeming with pilgrims. Following many conversions, a pressing need arose as some guests overstayed. The believers responded by sharing their resources, as indicated in Acts 2:44-45, where Christians “held everything in common” and distributed according to need.
A few key observations:
- They were Christians, not state officials.
- Their sharing was voluntary, not mandated by law.
- Their generosity stemmed from personal sacrifice, not government compulsion.
- This was a temporary measure, not a nationwide economic strategy.
The early church’s generosity emerged not from a divine command on wealth redistribution but from a genuine desire to help in a specific moment of need.
Socialism’s Ethical Dilemma
At its core, socialism is unethical, anchored in jealousy—one of the seven deadly sins. The desire for what others possess leads to envy, which the Bible cautions against. “Do not covet.” Envy has been described as corrosive to the spirit, and Galatians warns us to avoid provoking one another.
Socialism attempts to address inequality by redistributing resources. This typically translates to taking from earners and allocating to those who don’t, with the state deciding the distribution. The outcome is a cycle of dependency for the poor, penalties for the productive, and increased state power.
During the New York City campaign, Mr. Mamdani proposed numerous “free” services like child care and rent control. As Margaret Thatcher wisely noted, “The trouble with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people’s money.”
Thomas Sowell put it bluntly: “What do you call it when someone secretly steals money? Theft. When it’s taken by force? Robbery. When a politician redistributes wealth for votes? Social justice.”
This allure is what propelled Mamdani to victory; the illusion of socialism continues to have its appeal. After all, there’s a reason that “free” cheese attracts mice to traps.
Interestingly, Mamdani claims to support feminist and progressive ideals that contradict his Islamic background, placing his positions in conflict with both traditional Christian values and modern progressive moralities.
As believers, we should firmly oppose his rhetoric and advocate for what truly nurtures human flourishing.
Socialism’s Facade
On the surface, socialism seems compassionate, suggesting that everyone will obtain something for “free.” It sounds appealing, perhaps even aligning with Christ’s message, until we reflect on human behavior through history.
The Bible promotes voluntary generosity rather than government-driven redistribution. From “Thou shalt not steal” in Exodus to Paul’s notion of giving being voluntary in 2 Corinthians, the emphasis remains on individual moral agency, not state control. Socialism often quashes religious freedoms and the practice of faith.
Countries that adopted socialism, like the Soviet Union and Venezuela, have seen rampant shortages and suffering. Power centralizes at the top, innovation diminishes, and citizens lose their freedom, dignity, and hope.
Human nature remains constant; no one wants to toil to build a business only to watch it get dismantled by government intervention. A growing economy often correlates with increased spending.
Arthur Brooks’ research reveals that conservatives donate significantly more to charity than liberals, despite slightly higher incomes among liberals. Conservatives volunteer more and contribute more time to charitable efforts.
Why? Because faith-driven generosity is generally more effective than force-fed redistribution.
Socialism is born of envy, enforced through coercion, and results in deprivation. It hasn’t succeeded in the past, and it won’t work now. True socialism resembles animals in captivity—fed and controlled, yet never truly free. Genuine freedom allows for creativity, innovation, and dignity.
I choose freedom consistently over imposed control.
The Bible’s Take on Socialism
Scripture champions voluntary generosity and selflessness from believers. We should never support government-imposed mandates or hasty policies. America’s Christian heritage upholds individual responsibility and limited government.
This is why the Bible doesn’t endorse socialism, and why Mamdani’s vision should concern any advocate of Christian freedom and the founding principles of America.
The government has its role, and so does the church—they are not the same. Since politics intersect with morality, Christians should remain engaged, particularly as socialism reemerges disguised as compassion.
My father was right: nothing is truly free. It wasn’t back then, and it never will be. Someone always ends up paying for it.
