The Biblical Mandate To Help The Needy- Pastor Godwin Akintola
The act of supporting the needy is not merely a suggestion or a good deed to check off a list; it is a fundamental expression of our faith and a reflection of the love that God has poured out upon us. When we extend a helping hand to the weak, the marginalized, and the vulnerable among us, we embody the very heart of God, who is a God of justice, mercy, and compassion.
TOPIC: SUPPORTING THE NEEDY
TEXT: Isaiah 58:3-12; Acts 20:35; Gal, 6:2; Mark 12:32-33;
I. INTRODUCTION
Acts 20:35 – “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”
The above verse of the scripture is Paul’s farewell address to the elders of Ephesus. In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds us of the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, who declared that it is truly more blessed to give than to receive. This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the essence of Christian faith and community – a call to selfless love, compassion, and service to those in need.
The act of supporting the needy is not merely a suggestion or a good deed to check off a list; it is a fundamental expression of our faith and a reflection of the love that God has poured out upon us. When we extend a helping hand to the weak, the marginalized, and the vulnerable among us, we embody the very heart of God, who is a God of justice, mercy, and compassion. Isa.
In a world that often prioritizes self-interest and material gain, the message of giving over receiving stands as a counter-cultural proclamation of the values of the Kingdom of God. It challenges us to reexamine our priorities, to consider the needs of others above our own, and to recognize the interconnectedness of all humanity in the tapestry of God’s creation.
As we delve deeper into the principles and power of supporting the needy in our church and society, may we be inspired by the example set before us by Christ Himself, who came not to be served but to serve, and ultimately gave His life as a ransom for many. May our hearts be stirred with compassion, our hands ready to serve, and our lives be a living testimony to the transformative power of love in action.
I. THE BIBLICAL MANDATE TO HELP THE NEEDY
The call to care for the needy is not a peripheral theme in Scripture; it is central to the covenantal relationship between God and His people. Throughout the Bible, we are urged to reflect God’s love and mercy through our actions, especially toward those who are less fortunate. This mandate is deeply rooted in the character of God, who is described as a defender of the poor and the fatherless. Psalm 68:5
Scriptural Foundations
1. Old Testament Foundations:
Deuteronomy 15:7-8 “If anyone is poor among your fellow Israelites in any of the towns of the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward them. Rather, be openhanded and freely lend them whatever they need.”
Psalm 82:3-4: “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
These passages show that caring for the needy is not just an act of kindness but a requirement of justice, integral to living out Israel’s covenant with God.
2. New Testament Continuation and Expansion:
Matthew 25:35-40: Here, Jesus identifies Himself with the needy, saying, “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Acts 2:44-47: The early church modeled this principle by sharing their possessions and ensuring no one among them was in need. This not only provided for the needy but also stood as a powerful testimony of the gospel’s transformative power.
These passages emphasize that caring for the needy is a direct expression of our faith in Jesus and an outworking of the love He commands us to show.
The biblical mandate to help the needy is an unambiguous call to reflect God’s justice, mercy, and compassion. It is not optional but a fundamental aspect of our Christian identity and testimony. As we align our lives with these Scriptures, we not only adhere to the teachings of Christ but actively participate in the unfolding of God’s Kingdom on earth. Through these actions, we embody the love of Christ, making tangible differences in the lives of individuals and communities.
II. WHO ARE THE NEEDY?
The term “needy” refers to individuals or groups of people who are lacking basic necessities for a decent standard of living. This can include but is not limited to:
1. The Economically Disadvantaged: Proverbs 22:9; Proverbs 14:31 Those who struggle to meet their basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare due to financial hardships or poverty.
2. The Homeless: Psalm 113:7-8; Matthew 25:35. Individuals who lack stable and secure housing, often living on the streets or in temporary shelters.
3. The Hungry: Isaiah 58:10; Matthew 6:26. People who do not have reliable access to an adequate and nutritious food supply, leading to food insecurity and hunger.
4. The sick and disabled: Exodus 15:26; Psalm 147:3. Individuals who are facing health challenges or disabilities that limit their ability to care for themselves or participate fully in society.
5. The marginalized and oppressed: Galatians 3:28 . Groups of people who face discrimination, prejudice, or social exclusion based on factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.
6. The elderly: Psalm 71:9; Proverbs 16:31. Senior citizens who may be isolated, living alone, or struggling with health issues and limited resources in their later years.
7. Children and youth: Psalm 127:3; Matthew 18:5 Vulnerable populations who are at risk due to factors such as poverty, abuse, neglect, or lack of access to education and opportunities.
Supporting the needy involves recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of these individuals and communities, extending compassion, practical assistance, and advocacy to help alleviate their suffering and improve their quality of life. It is a call to demonstrate empathy, generosity, and solidarity with those who are most vulnerable and in need of support.
III. PRACTICAL WAYS TO SUPPORT THE NEEDY
Supporting the needy with Bible verses is a powerful way to connect the act of giving and helping others with the teachings and principles found in Scripture. Here are some practical ways to support the needy along with corresponding Bible verses to inspire and guide your actions:
1. Pray for the Needy. James 5:16; Philippians 4:6
2. Give Generously. 2 Corinthians 9:7; Proverbs 11:25
3. Share Resources. Acts 4:32-35; Luke 3:11
4. Offer Hospitality and Care. Hebrews 13:2; 1 Peter 4:9
5. Provide Encouragement and Support. 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Galatians 6:2
6. Advocate for Justice and Equity. Isaiah 1:17; Proverbs 31:8-9
7. Be a Good Samaritan. Luke 10:33-34; 1 John 3:17-18;
By incorporating these Biblical principles into your acts of supporting the needy, you not only provide tangible assistance but also demonstrate God’s love and compassion in action. Let these principles guide and inspire you as you seek to make a positive impact in the lives of those in need.
IV. THE BENEFITS OF SUPPORTING THE NEEDY
Read. Isaiah 58:3-12 again to gain perspective.
1. Blessings from God: Proverbs 22:9. By supporting the needy, we are promised blessings from God for our generosity and compassion towards others
2. Fulfillment and Joy: Acts 20:35, Supporting the needy brings a sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from giving and making a positive impact in someone’s life.
3. Divine Protection and Provision. Psalm 41:1-3. God promises protection and provision to those who support the needy, showing His favor upon those who care for the vulnerable
4. Spiritual Growth. Luke 6:38. Supporting the needy leads to spiritual growth as we reflect the character of Christ in our actions and receive blessings in return
5. Eternal Rewards. Matthew 25:34-40. By supporting the needy, we store up treasures in heaven and receive eternal rewards for our acts of kindness and service
6. Unity in the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:26. Supporting the needy fosters community and unity among believers as we come together to meet the needs of others, reflecting the interconnectedness of the body of Christ.
7. Favor and Honor. Proverbs 14:31; favour and honor find you always.
By supporting the needy, we not only make a tangible difference in the lives of others but also experience a multitude of benefits, both in this life and in the eternal kingdom to come.
V. THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT SUPPORTING THE NEEDY
Ignoring the needs of the needy can have serious consequences both individually and collectively. Here are five dangers in ignoring the needy:
1. Neglect of God’s Commandments: 1 Jn 3:17 Ignoring the needs of the needy goes against the commandments and teachings of God, who calls us to show compassion and love to those who are less fortunate.
2. You stand the risk of having your prayers unanswered. Prov. 21:13;
3. You Missed Opportunities for Blessings. Proverbs 19:17. By ignoring the needs of the needy, we miss out on the blessings and rewards that come from serving others and being obedient to God’s command to care for the less fortunate.
4. You Increase the Chance for Social Injustice and Inequality in the society. Isaiah 10:1-2; Isaiah 10:1-2. Ignoring the needs of the needy perpetuates social injustice and inequality, creating a society where the marginalized and vulnerable are left without support and assistance.
VI. ADMONITION TO THE NEEDY.
To the precious souls who find themselves in times of need, I speak to you with words of love, hope, and encouragement. You are not forgotten, and you are not alone. In the midst of your struggles and trials, may you find strength in the promises of God and the support of those around you. Here are some admonitions rooted in the truth of Scripture to guide you in your journey:
1. Put your Trust in the Lord. Prov. 3:5-6
2. Do not be afraid to reach out for help and support from those around you. Eccl. 4:9-10; Gal. 6:2; Seek Help and Community.
3. Don’t give up; Don’t lose hope. Persevere in Faith: Stay strong in your faith and persevere through the challenges you face. James 1:12
4. Be Inspired to consider entrepreneurship and starting small businesses as a means of generating income and building financial stability for yourself and family. Ecclesiastes 11:6
5. Get yourself involved in service to God and society in a voluntary basis. Galatians 6:9
CONCLUSION
As we partner with God in taking care of the needy amongst us we position ourself for His favour and blessing. To close our eyes to the needs of other (physical, spiritual, emotional, psychological and mental needs), is to live in disobedience and deprive ourselves of the benefits and blessings therein. According to the Rules of belief number 7 we should endeavor to pray for and help every member, remembering that we are joint members in the body of Christ. The preceding is our kingdom responsibility that must not be ignored.
THANK YOU ALL
