Very cool. We need more things like this. In my experience the deep issue with Christians and taxes is the endocrination from the state. Logically it is hard to argue against taxation being theft. That said, Jesus told us to love our enemies. This doesn't make their actions right or moral. I think we over think this topic. It's simple. Pay your taxes to avoid prison and your witness being harmed. But do not shy away from calling theft theft. Speak the truth in love. Taxes are evil because they steal wealth and at best waste it. At worst they use it to cause harm.
https://youtu.be/xPMuXS8lkg0-crHEsyqcvmHfY
There has to be a better answer than, "Just pay your taxes!"
This thought echoed through my mind as I read Jesus' words once again: "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's..."
I'm excited to introduce my upcoming book, Render to God: Christ's Dominion and Human Taxation. The motivation behind this work stems from my relentless refusal to accept conventional answers to difficult questions.
God commands us not to steal. Does that apply to governments as well? How is it righteous for them to take your income, then tax your property? Surely, God does not condone tyrants seizing property and imprisoning those who can't pay property taxes...
Yet, Jesus tells us to give to Caesar what is Caesar's. Paul instructs us to pay taxes to whom taxes are owed. Peter urges us to honor the Emperor as supreme!
I couldn’t live with this tension. There had to be answers. The problem wasn't in the text—it was in my understanding of it.
So, I embarked on a journey. I studied, prayed, studied, prayed, and trusted God to guide me toward clarity. At times, I was frustrated, but that frustration soon transformed into exhilaration as God illuminated His Word to me once again.
This book is the fruit of that journey. Now, I invite you to embark on that journey with me.
Let’s go!
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Discussion
Solid take bro. I argue this in my book in more detail.