Early Christian Representations of the Economy: Evidence from New Testament Texts

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to provide an overview of economic issues that permeate certain aspects of the New Testament narrative world. After critically discussing the proper methodological patterns, the essay explores the possibility of reconstructing the socio-economic world in which these narratives emerged and evolved. We then proceed to assess the economic norms embedded in a rich diversity of New Testament texts, and we analyse how these religious discourses affected the economic attitudes of their respective audiences. To avoid overgeneralization, we properly differentiate the distinctive responses to the problem of economic necessity, in conformity to the particular social setting. We in turn suggest an alternative reading of some economic aspects of these texts; in so doing, we employ theories that advance a new understanding of the ancient economy. Finally, findings are summarized and further propositions are formulated.

THE GOSPEL AND ECONOMIC BEHAVIOUR: EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE FROM A TRUST GAME

“…However, the Christian paradigm of charity is not limited to almsgiving, which is a major, but not the only, aspect of charity (Williams ). In particular, two other elements are crucial beyond almsgiving: redistribution of wealth and reciprocity; these aim at pursuing an unconditional commitment of the rich to the needs of the others (Gotsis and Merianos ). In this sense the Christian doctrine teaches the believers to share their wealth with the poor and to reciprocate positive actions (such as donations).…”