Douglas:
I am in error. Sorry, did not wish to mislead.
I did not have a reference bible handy and seemed to remember the phrase from Christ's Sermon on the Mount. Actually it appears in only more modern editions of the New Testament 2 Corinthians 8:14 - 15. Further it is Paul's interpretation of one of the precepts taught by Christ in his teachings and also on the "Mount".
In the `marked' edition of The Living New Testament (The Living Bible), published by the The Bible League, 1991 edition, Paul is quoted as instructing:
14. ". . .but you should divide with them. Right now you have plenty and can help them; then at some other time they can share with you when you need it. From each, according to his ability to give; to each according to his need. In this way each will have his needs met."
15. "Do you remember what the Scriptures say about this? `He that gathered much had nothing left over, and he that gathered little had enough.' So you also should share with those in need."
Since Christ himself did not say it in so many words, and Paul (although supposedly inspired) may have been mistaken or twisted the meaning or spirit of the thought Christ sought to convey, and the Old Testament Scriptures, I retract my statement about Christ and shift the blame for creating the basic tenet of the socialist credo to unsaintly Paul.
Father Terrence |
