Yes, without money you cannot buy. This is different from saying you cannot have these things without money. Money only exists, and only has value, because we choose to make it so. Houses, food, water, clothing and cars do not exist because money exists. Money does not cause these things to exist. We need to at least start from that basic principle. Money does not create anything.
Jesus is talking about a kingdom where money is no longer the motivation for why we work. In his kingdom we do not work for material gain; we work for the benefit of one another. It's all about motivation. Because money does not create anything, we can still have all the wonders of technology and industry we have now. We could actually have much more without money. Money is the reason why progress is so often suppressed. New forms of technology, especially in the area of energy, are often suppressed in favor of keeping the old, more lucrative industries in tact. One example of this is advancements in solar and wind technology. Instead, we're still stuck on dirty fossil fuels because it is more profitable to those who already control such resources. It's a natural reaction, right? Change from one source of energy to another necessarily means less profit for the old. Check out lobbying vs bribery if you want to see how it works in practical reality.
On the other hand, if people were taught to work for the benefit of one another, they'd be no reason to stifle progress for the sake of profit. We would be enjoying a much better quality of life by now. Money is a counterfeit to real life. The only reason we believe we can't live without it is because we've been trained to think that way. Yes, choosing to support a different system will be difficult. We'd be few going against many. But so what? Isn't living a life of meaning and integrity better, even if we die?
The more people lament that they must serve mammon for the sake of feeding their family, the more I see the wisdom in both Jesus and Paul teaching that it is better to remain single.
A Christian's job is to be an example of the Kingdom of Heaven. When we live by worldly values but still call ourselves Christian, we only confuse what the Kingdom of Heaven is supposed to be; something different; a better way even if it seems like it fails in the face of so much worldly opposition. That's why JohnDB's comments about failed community are so hurtful. He is like the seed which withered under intense heat. It is as though he blames community for his own failures; a kind of sour grapes. He does not want to discipline himself in a way that can make communal life successful, so he dumps his bitterness on others by telling them communal sharing will only lead to failure.
The alternative he suggests is to work for mammon, and to be proud of just how much top dollar you can make from it. But don't believe him. Living by faith, communal sharing, and working for love is the way, the truth and the life. You will not have communion with God if you cannot have communion with your brothers and sisters.
First off, you dont know John like I do, and I'll not tolerate, let alone allow you to slander his good name. That's not what we're about on this site.
Let me tell you what i know about John that he isn't going to tell you.
First, John is an honorable man. He is a man of integrity and honesty. John is very much involved in community and making this world a better place to live.
While you rail against money, John is taking advantage of the difference money can bring.
Johns heart is in missionary work and serving his community in various ways. John is a skilled worker who's trade is not only in demand, but also pays well, because of his mastery in his trade, John is able to demand a high wage. He is also able to pick and choose the jobs he does.
John would rather spend his time helping community, but he understands money pays the bills. He also understands money is what allows him to go on mission trips. It is within this context i understand Johns words you have misunderstood. You owe him an apology.
If you asked John, would you rather work at your job or help community or mission trips, he would answer the latter.
So, if your up for covering all the expenses John needs so he can devote himself to his passion in ministry, I'm sure he would accept your generous donation.
I see John much in the same way I see the Apostle Paul. Paul had a passion for ministry, but he understood money was required. As not to be a burden to others financially, Paul worked as a tent maker to support his own ministry.
As far as your comment on communal life and the versus you quoted, Paul has to collect donations from wealthier communities to support those who gave everything so no one would be without need. In other words, those resources ran out and now they are a burden on the community at large.
My brothers girlfriend grew up in a religious commune in the Arkansas mountains. I wonder why she doesnt romanticize it like you do.
