The right to possess private wealth is everywhere affirmed in the Bible: ‘Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own’?^[1]  But the method of acquiring wealth is often associated with avarice, dishonesty and oppression, and comes under frequent attack, particularly from the prophets.^[2]  There is nothing inherently wrong with the increase of riches; it is the setting of the heart upon them which is to be avoided.^[3]  Timothy is not told to charge the rich with having possessions, but that ‘they be ready to give away and to share’.^[4]  Stress on the responsibility attaching to affluence is an important element in Biblical social ethics, and it should be remembered that the history of socialism, including the modern Welfare State, has its roots in the social consciousness enshrined in the Jewish‑Christian tradition.

The Article asserts the right to hold private property, and the duty of almsgiving according to one’s ability.^[5]  Our giving must be proportionate to our incomes and possessions.  In Judaism, almsgiving was one of the most prominent of religious duties,^[6] and was even regarded as efficacious in atoning for sins.^[7]  Our Lord rebuked the ostentatious charity of His day,^[8] but emphasized the blessedness of giving,^[9] the many opportunities of helping others,^[10] and the reward of giving with the highest motive – ‘in My Name’.^[11]  St. Paul also emphasized the necessity of giving with the right motive.^[12]  Christians must work that they ‘may have to give to him that needeth’.^[13]  St. Paul’s emphasis on work presupposes that Christians may have private property,^[14] and the frequent exhortations to almsgiving are meaningless if the early Christians did not have private possessions.^[15]