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Last I checked,

thou shalt not steal or covet

are still in there...

And socialism cannot be reconciled with these.

Envy, or covetousness, is the only emotion that is expressly forbidden by the Commandments. That's probably because envy can be cultivated or wither by one's own will.

And envy is the organizing principle of socialism.

Socialists wouldn't stand a chance with the argument that the State will take the fruit of your labor and distribute it according to the needs of the State. However, many people are attracted by the argument that the State should take the fruit of another's labor and distribute it to them.

Here's one from a cartoon series from the very Conservative and thoroughly Christian Harding College (now University): Make Mine Freedom. This institution, affiliated with the non- denominational church (small "c" intentional) of Christ is notable for its American Studies Institute which teaches the fundamentals upon which this country was founded: the Bible, liberty, individualism and free enterprise.

Also of interest is War We Are In, Part Two Communism vs Capitalism, a lecture by Dr. George S. Benson, former President of Harding. It's a strong defense of a pro-God, pro-American and an unabashed pro-capitalism philosophy. Yes, it's a bit dated, but Dr. Benson's words still are meaningful here in the 21st Century as the world faces the dangers of atheistic liberalism.

In the interest of full disclosure, I am a member of a church of Christ congregation here in Texas. I'll add that guns are not only permitted during services but are, in fact, encouraged. Our preacher carries a gun as do most of our members. In that regard, it's much like Baptist-affiliated Liberty University in Lynchburg which also stands for freedom by permitting guns on campus.

To Catholic FReepers: Is there an official stance from the Vatican on guns at Mass or is it up to each Catholic Church?