The requirement that Christians help the poor is a moral requirement, for the purpose of glorifying and pleasing God.
A moral decision can only be made in the context of freedom of choice.
Taxation by the government through force is entirely separate and in fact contrary to this.
That's not true. You are free to decide how to spend the money you don't pay in taxes. And let's face it, you're only paying a percentage. There's plenty left over to give to the poor, if you would just do it.
Taxation by the government through force is entirely separate and in fact contrary to this.
1.) Nothing prevents you from doing both.
2.) Jesus said to pay your taxes.
3.) No one has yet provided me with any quote that indicates that Jesus would have disapproved of the government helping the poor.