Torch, Spring 1986

12 F ree enterprise is the most effi– cient and powerful economic system in the world today . It allows a coun– try to experience phenomenal economic growth in a relatively short time. Examples include modern Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and, of course , the United States. Cedarville College espouses this economic system in its business courses and in its conviction to be independent as an institution from local , state, or federal monies for support of programs or capital ex– penditures. While we examine other economic systems, we stress free enterprise for two reasons : it's the best system and it's so obviously the most God– blessed system of our day. Free enterprise has four character- istics or foundation stones: 1. Freedom to own property 2. Freedom to make profit 3. Freedom to give away wealth 4. Freedom to fail Let me share how these parallel the teachings of Scripture. FREEDOM TO OWN PROPERTY Nearly all New Testament para– bles assume, either directly or indirectly, private ownership of property . These include the parables of the laborers in the vineyard , the talents, the lost coin, the lost sheep, and the prodigal son . Consider a few specific refer– ences. Speaking of Barnabas, Acts 4:37 states, "Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet." The lord of the vineyard says in Matthew 20: 15 : "Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own?" But just as surely as private owner– ship is affirmed by God, the Scriptures also substantiate that