The concept of an economy in The Kingdom Of God is envisioned through a lens that is vastly different from the economies we know today. In this model, the economy is rooted in principles of love, sharing, mutual support, and stewardship, rather than in financial transactions, profit, or material accumulation. Here are some key features of our economy:

1. Principle of Abundance

• Principle: The Kingdom Of God operates on the principle of abundance rather than scarcity. God’s provision is seen as sufficient for all needs, as illustrated in the feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21).
• Implication: The economy in The Kingdom Of God is one where resources are shared freely, with the understanding that there is enough for everyone. The focus is on distribution according to need, rather than accumulation or competition.

2. Community and Sharing

• Principle: The early Christian community in Acts practiced a form of communal living where believers shared everything in common, ensuring that no one was in need (Acts 2:44-45; Acts 4:32-35).
• Implication: In an economy without money, goods, services, and resources are shared within the community. This sharing is motivated by love and mutual care, with each person contributing according to their ability and receiving according to their need.

3. Service and Contribution

• Principle: In The Kingdom Of God, greatness is measured by service to others (Matthew 20:26-28). Work and contribution are not about earning a living but about serving the community and fulfilling God’s calling.
• Implication: People contribute their talents, skills, and labor not for personal gain but as an act of service. The economy is driven by the desire to serve one another, ensuring that everyone’s needs are met through mutual cooperation.

4. Stewardship of Creation

• Principle: Humans are called to be stewards of God’s creation, managing resources responsibly and sustainably (Genesis 1:28; Genesis 2:15). In The Kingdom Of God, this stewardship is carried out with care and respect for the environment.
• Implication: Resources are used wisely and sustainably, with a focus on caring for the earth and ensuring that creation is preserved for future generations. The economy is ecologically sound, emphasizing conservation and the responsible use of resources.

5. Justice and Equity

• Principle: The Kingdom Of God is characterized by justice and equity. Everyone is treated with dignity, and there is a strong emphasis on ensuring that the needs of the poor and marginalized are met (Isaiah 58:6-7).
• Implication: An economy without money in The Kingdom Of God is inherently just, ensuring that everyone has access to what they need to live a full and dignified life. There is no exploitation, hoarding, or inequality, as everyone have equal access to resources.

6. Relationships over Transactions

• Principle: Relationships are central in The Kingdom Of God, with love for God and neighbor being the greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-40). Economic activity is not about transactions but about building and sustaining relationships.
• Implication: The economy prioritize relationships over transactions. Goods and services are exchanged freely out of love and care for one another, rather than as part of a transactional system based on profit or personal gain.

7. Dependence on God

• Principle: The Kingdom Of God is marked by trust in God’s provision. Jesus taught His followers to pray for their daily bread, relying on God to meet their needs (Matthew 6:11).
• Implication: The economy function with a deep trust in God’s provision, without the anxiety or fear that often drives economic behavior in a money-based system. People live with the confidence that God will provide for their needs through the community.

8. Generosity and Giving

• Principle: Generosity is a key value in The Kingdom Of God. Jesus praised the widow who gave all she had, highlighting the importance of giving from the heart (Mark 12:41-44).
• Implication: The economy is characterized by generosity, with people freely giving what they have to others. This generosity is not be limited to material goods but would also include time, talents, and emotional and spiritual support.

9. No Need for Money

• Principle: In a perfect expression of The Kingdom Of God, the concept of money as a medium of exchange becomes unnecessary. The exchange of goods and services is based on love, trust, and mutual care, rather than on financial transactions.
• Implication: Without money, the focus shifts from earning and spending to sharing and giving. The economy operates on a gift-based system where needs are met through communal sharing rather than buying and selling.

10. Rest and Sabbath

• Principle: The concept of Sabbath rest is central to The Kingdom Of God, reflecting trust in God’s provision and a rhythm of work and rest that honors God (Exodus 20:8-11).
• Implication: The economy include regular times of rest, where work ceases, and the community focuses on worship, reflection, and renewal. This rest is a reminder that the economy is not driven by human effort alone but by God’s sustaining power.

In summary, an economy in The Kingdom Of God without money is radically different from our current economic systems. It is based on principles of abundance, sharing, service, justice, stewardship, and trust in God’s provision. This economy emphasize relationships, community, and the well-being of all people, with a focus on meeting needs through mutual care and generosity rather than through financial transactions.