What if I told you that many of the ideas shaping our schools, politics, and culture today were born from two men who rejected God, saw humanity as economic tools, and sought to dismantle religion, family, and morality?

Marxism is more than a political ideology—it’s a worldview that has shaped revolutions, toppled governments, and redefined cultures. Yet few understand where it came from, what it truly teaches, and why it continues to influence our world.

This series, “Origins of Marxism: Marx, Engels, and the Communist Manifesto,” explores the foundational ideas of Marxism, their historical context, and their implications for today. If you’ve ever wondered how Marxism impacts society—and even the church—understanding its origins is key to recognizing its influence.

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Revised Introduction

Upheaval characterized the 19th century. The Industrial Revolution transformed Europe’s cities into bustling centers of production, drawing rural workers into factories that promised opportunity, but often delivered hardship. The growing divide between wealthy industrialists and poor laborers created a fertile ground for discontent.

Amid this turmoil, intellectuals and activists searched for answers. Some sought gradual reform, while others embraced radical ideas to upend the social order. It was a time when old systems seemed inadequate, and new ideologies promised hope—or so it seemed.

Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels emerged with a revolutionary theory in this climate. Drawing on Hegel’s idea of history as a series of struggles, they argued that all of human history could be reduced to a single narrative: the conflict between oppressors and the oppressed. For them, religion, morality, and tradition weren’t anchors for society but tools of the powerful to maintain control. If humanity were to be freed, these “chains” had to be broken.

Their ideas, outlined in The Communist Manifesto, declared war on the pillars of Western civilization: private property, the family, and faith in God. They envisioned a classless society where these structures would no longer exist, replaced by state control and collective equality.

While their manifesto promised liberation, its real-world application brought oppression, poverty, and the loss of countless lives. As you read through this series, you’ll see how Marxism’s foundational ideas were not only misguided but fundamentally opposed to biblical truth. Marx and Engels didn’t just reject God—they sought to replace Him with a materialist vision that denied the spiritual dimension of life.

Understanding the origins of Marxism is crucial for recognizing its influence in today’s world. Whether in education, politics, or media, Marxist ideas have taken fresh forms and found new advocates. To confront them effectively, Christians must first understand their roots.

So here’s the big question: What happens when a society turns its back on God and seeks salvation through revolution?