Economic matters were not regarded as taboo because they concerned society. According to Potgieter (2019), John Calvin places property and money in a positive light. The approach by John Calvin towards economy arrays sobriety whereby property and money are neither condemned nor glorified. Economic thinking differs from the Christian worldview in that it encourages individualism and capitalism. These two concepts encourage owning goods to make profits. Currently, economic thinking has put Christians in jeopardy. For instance, the arrival of prosperity sermons has interfered with the latter view, thereby making Christians associate faith with material things. One is considered godly if they have cars, estates, or money. Therefore, this approach by Calvin helps a Christian understand that the world is not about property and money but about seeking to know God deeply.
For the economy to be stable and immune to inflation, it requires a regulatory mechanism. According to Johnston (2019), John Calvin elaborated that the involvement of the government in the economy would lower interest rates and promote cohesion. Similarly, the economic perspectives emphasize the regulation of markets to protect consumers against high prices and unreasonable interest rates. Moreover, the fruits of the economy, such as property and money, are important for the comfort of human beings.
Theologically, people can either serve God as members of the clergy or helpers in the house of prayer (cleaning, sweeping, and cooking for the clergy). However, modernization and urbanization have expanded the spectrum of God’s service into business. Christians are now involved in business activities as farmers, manufacturers, merchants, and bankers. To ensure they are on the right path, they should be guided by honesty, giving, love, and freedom; they should not steal and should not covet (Anthony, 2022). These personal beliefs will help Christians practice their faith and service to God while building the economy.
References
Anthony, B. (2022). Biblical Economic Policy: A Useful Guide to a Christian Perspective on Economics. Dallas Baptist University. Web.
Johnston, C. F. (2019). A Protestant rethinking of economics for a healthier world. American Journal of Economics and Sociology, 78(2), 363-408. Web.
Potgieter, P. C. (2019). John Calvin on social challenges. Acta Theologica, 39, 72-87. Web.