Why Should Christians Assist the Poor (2)? By Babatunde Olugboji

Last week we ended with the question: So what is our role as believers in caring for the poor? A good answer to that question is found in the book of Isaiah:

Is this not the fast that I select: to release the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke? (Isaiah 58:6)

If authentic solutions to the structural causes of poverty can be found, this will offer impoverished individuals in numerous nations a means through which the ‘bonds of wickedness’ and the ‘yoke’ of oppression will be dismantled, thereby glorifying the Lord himself.

Although poor people in developing nations may mention a deficiency of material goods, they frequently articulate their circumstances in much more psychological and social terms than people in North America. They typically express feelings of shame, inferiority, powerlessness, humiliation, fear, hopelessness, depression, social isolation, and voicelessness.

Individuals with low income face a daily battle for survival that engenders feelings of helplessness, anxiety, suffocation, and desperation that are simply unmatched in the experiences of the rest of humanity.

When we comprehend these dimensions of poverty, including a ‘lack of freedom to make meaningful choices -to possess the ability to influence one’s circumstances,’ our hearts should be sincerely compelled to seek solutions to these issues.

James cautions us that mere words are insufficient to aid the poor; actions are essential:

If a brother or sister is inadequately clothed and lacking daily sustenance, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without providing the necessary items for the body, what benefit is that? Thus, faith alone, if it lacks work, is dead. (James 2:15-17)

A similar message is echoed in John’s first epistle:

But if anyone possesses the world’s goods and observes his brother in need, yet shuts his heart against him, how can God’s love reside in him? (1 John 3:17)

This was undoubtedly the practice of the early church, for “there was not a needy person among them” (Acts 4:34).

Consequently, it is appropriate for Christians to consistently provide food, shelter, and other essentials to those who are impoverished and unable to afford such basic necessities. Numerous charitable organizations, churches, and governments globally assist the poor in this manner, often with great effectiveness. Examples of such initiatives include programs to dig wells, establish medical and dental clinics, construct schools, and support evangelism and Bible instruction in various nations.

To be continued

Have a great week!

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