This is a complex issue -
we are often motivated by compassion to reach out and assist those in need; the down and out, etc.
but in the end how much of an impact do we make?
Strictly speaking the NT teaches us that charity and financial assistance and helping the poor is WITHIN the church, and
NOT to the outside world of unbelievers.
Those outside of the Christian faith and the church are to be envious of the love and care and compassion that
Christians extend to each other in the body of Christ.
I believe that the poor need to have the gospel of salvation preached to them and for their lifestyle problems that
often underlie their poverty of body and soul to be removed - for them to be set free.
Then one can with the help of others get their act together (so to speak) and improve their quality of life through
prayer for God's assistance and through Godly counsel and charitable support.
Jesus never set up a soup kitchen for the poor - he preached the gospel and gave the oppressed the opportunity
to be set free from their burdens and addictions and infirmities.
New lives, new people, hopefully in a supportive caring body of fellow believers.
we are often motivated by compassion to reach out and assist those in need; the down and out, etc.
but in the end how much of an impact do we make?
Strictly speaking the NT teaches us that charity and financial assistance and helping the poor is WITHIN the church, and
NOT to the outside world of unbelievers.
Those outside of the Christian faith and the church are to be envious of the love and care and compassion that
Christians extend to each other in the body of Christ.
I believe that the poor need to have the gospel of salvation preached to them and for their lifestyle problems that
often underlie their poverty of body and soul to be removed - for them to be set free.
Then one can with the help of others get their act together (so to speak) and improve their quality of life through
prayer for God's assistance and through Godly counsel and charitable support.
Jesus never set up a soup kitchen for the poor - he preached the gospel and gave the oppressed the opportunity
to be set free from their burdens and addictions and infirmities.
New lives, new people, hopefully in a supportive caring body of fellow believers.
Jesus didn't really set up a soup kitchen, but he fed 5000 people who were hungry...
I think Jesus expects us to help ANYONE that we are capable of helping.... in fact, that is the one BEST way to witness to a non-believer.... FEED them. Show them the love of Jesus for ALL people. They will see Jesus through you....
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