Reformation Thoughts on Welfare

In his Calvin in the Public Square: Liberal Democracies, Rights, and Civil Liberties, David W. Hall lists several points regarding Calvin and Luther’s views on poverty and welfare.  Hall condenses Calvin’s general principles for welfare reform in Geneva on p. 113:

• It was only for the truly disadvantaged.
• Moral prerequisites accompanied assistance.
• Private or religious charity, not state largesse, was the vehicle for aid.
• Ordained officers managed and brought accountability.
• Theological underpinnings were normal.
• Productive work ethic was sought.
• Assistance was temporary.
• History is valuable in confirming practices.

Later in the book, Hall writes that “Calvin, Luther, Bucer, and Knox coalesced to form a consensual approach to the church’s role in social welfare.”  He then lists the consensual policy principles from the Reformation era. (p. 127)

• Theology guided practice.
• If one did not work, he was not assisted (2 Thess. 3:10).
• Each church was to administer a “common chest.”
• Welfare relief was temporary, with a long-term goal of industriousness.
• The family was the first rung of relief.
• A distinction between the deserving and the undeserving poor was maintained.

These are very helpful principles for anyone thinking through diaconal ministry and even public policy.  I think all Christians should consider these points as they determine how they might assist the poor and needy in their own congregations through the diaconate and how they might support para-church (not quasi-church) organizations such as rescue missions.  I am delighted to mention that both rescue missions for whom my wife has worked incorporate several of these points into their programs.  Unfortunately, not every diaconate or organization considers these principles as they seek to help those in need.  The result is that those who are unwilling to find lasting help act as parasites by taking from those who are truly deserving.