p45fan

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Hello, all:

I have some reservations in bringing this up, mostly because I know this can become a nasty debate. So I entreat everyone for a little civility.

I suppose by today's standards I would be called a "conservative". I believe in the Free Market, limited government, that big business is not evil, that communism is a bad idea, that national security is important, that America is a good place, that globalism isn't bad, etc. I'm not entirely comfortable with the Libertarian party, either - mostly since I think they spend too much time suspiciously worked up over legalizing marijuana...

What I don't understand is how Christianity has come to be associated with these "conservative" or "right" values. A quick Google search reveals these interesting passages:
"You cannot serve God and wealth" Matthew 6:24.
"It is a question of a fair balance between your present abundance and their need." 2 Corinthians 8:13,14.

Isn't Christianity all about discounting worldly possessions and accomplishments, devoting your life to the benefit of the poor, and so on? "The meek shall inherit the earth"? In fact, isn't the whole notion of an omnipotent "God", to whom I should submit my entire being to, rather antithetical to the moral values of capitalism and personal freedom? How can I choose the course of my own life, determine right from wrong, if there's some big guy up there who has a specific plan for me, and if I do otherwise He'll condemn me to a rather unpleasant place?

Look, I'm not really against Christianity here. Christianity was the basis of Western Civilization, has served as an important moral base for centuries, etc. But as someone always evolving his political, social, and spiritual beliefs, I still don't see a way to account for the tremendous socialist leanings of Christian belief.

What are your thoughts, o believers and non-believers?