The Maker Versus the Takers

What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics

By: Jerry Bowyer

Narrated by: William Sarris

A close reading of the Gospels, taking history and archaeology into account, demolishes the myth of a socialist Jesus.

Theologians virtually ignore the economic commentary in the Bible. In the few cases where it gets any attention, economic commentary in the Gospels and other New Testament writings tend to lapse into simplistic class-warfare nostrums. Liberation theologians import Marxism wholesale (but they try to sell it retail) into theology. Academic historians of first-century Palestine/Judea have been pushing an account of a poor peasant Jesus leading a poor peasant's revolt based on the idea of mass displaced workers in Lower Galilee. The problem is the actual archaeological findings paint a picture of an industrious and entrepreneurial economy during Jesus' time there. Reading the Gospels in light of archaeology and history, which are now available to us, gives us a very different picture than the one you've been told regarding what Jesus taught about work and money.

©2020 Jerry Bowyer (P)2020 eChristian

Great research; interesting presentation

I heard Mr. Bowyer interviewed on a podcast and was intrigued by his thoughts and the obvious research into biblical records and customs. As I read the book, I was impressed with the author's respect for the Scriptures and his skill in letting one Scripture interpret other Scripture. This book is one I've already recommended. I will continue to reread this book as I use it for reference in teaching the Bible.

Very thought provoking

Absolutely loved it. Gave me new eyes on reading the Bible. Can't help but use the temporal analyses to help see our political situation today in new light. What would Jesus say and do in our time? This book is a keeper. Worth re-reading again and again. It also is inspiring me to re-read the gospel accounts in full with my new eyes. 👀

Very insightful, instructive and relevant

The author provides a very strong case for the free enterprise system from a biblical perspective by providing strong combination of historical and scriptural references. Very instructive.

Good thoughts on the biblical economy

I enjoyed it, I'm going to have to read it again. There's a lot in there

Awesome

I had this book on my wish list for a while. When I got it I regretted not getting it sooner.

Great Read!

This book has helped shaped how I as a Christian should view economics and justice and understand what Jesus was saying about these issues during His time.

Fascinating!

What a fantastic opportunity to dig into an under-observed perspective. Yes, Jesus and the OT talk about wealth and poverty plenty, but did we ever stop to think about who the audience is? Where (and to which class) does he say what, and what does that teach us about His true message? The hearers at the time did not have the problem we have today…they had context. This looks at the historical world through the lens of the biblical authors along with some background historical events from other historians of the time. Great read, will challenge you in a good way. Disagree with the author’s position? Great! Go chase down the same passages and see for yourself, nothing here is hidden.

Helpful discussion of what the gospels say

I'm so glad to have listened to this. Neither the social gospel folks, nor the right-wing politicized Christians seem to ring true. We can always assume that the truth lies "somewhere in between". This is a great discussion of what Jesus actually said and did while talking with the suffering poor, the "regular people", and the ruling elite in Jerusalem. Very helpful book.

Extraordinary display of biblical exegesis

This book is a model of clarity, and a terrific demonstration of biblical exegesis done well. For people interested in Christianity and economics, it is a worthwhile read. Highly recommended.

The Makers Versus The Makers

I Loved the whole book. It was fascinating to get a Christian economic perspective, of Jesus and the cities he went to. I would recommend this book to all, especially Christian. We need to see that Jesus is all and that includes an economic perspective of Jesus thoughts compared to the ruling classes. This should be a best seller.