What does "you will always have the poor" teach about ongoing Christian responsibilities? The Setting John 12:8 records Jesus saying, “For you will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have Me.” The statement comes when Mary anoints Jesus with costly perfume. Judas objects, insisting the money should have gone to the poor. Jesus’ reply balances an act of worship with the continuing call to serve the needy. Scriptural Echoes • Deuteronomy 15:11: “For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you to open your hand to your brother and to the poor and needy in your land.” • Matthew 26:11; Mark 14:7 repeat Christ’s words, underscoring their weight. • Proverbs 19:17; James 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17 reinforce ongoing generosity as faith in action. What the Phrase Teaches • Poverty is a persistent reality in a fallen world; ministry to the poor is therefore a permanent fixture of discipleship, not a passing project. • Christ’s commendation of Mary’s worship does not cancel the mandate to help the poor; it clarifies that both worship and works of mercy have their place. • By referencing Deuteronomy 15:11, Jesus reminds listeners that God expects an “open hand” toward those in need. • The Church’s mission remains two-fold: exalt Christ and extend compassion. Neglecting either distorts the gospel witness. Ongoing Responsibilities for Believers • Recognize the continual presence of need and plan for sustained generosity. • Give sacrificially: 2 Corinthians 9:7 encourages cheerful, intentional giving. • Engage personally: Isaiah 58:7 calls us to “share your bread with the hungry.” • Advocate for justice: Proverbs 31:8-9 urges speaking up for those without a voice. • Integrate mercy into everyday life—budget, calendar, and community involvement. • Keep worship central; compassion flows best from hearts captivated by Christ. Practical Ways to Live It Out 1. Regular giving to church benevolence funds and reputable ministries. 2. Volunteering at shelters, food banks, or mentoring programs. 3. Offering employment opportunities or skills training when able. 4. Hospitality—inviting struggling neighbors for meals and fellowship. 5. Corporate church initiatives: medical missions, disaster relief, community development. 6. Family discipleship: involve children in acts of service to ingrain a lifestyle of mercy. Encouraging Promises for Obedience • “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17) • “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38) • “Blessed is he who considers the poor; the LORD will deliver him in the day of trouble.” (Psalm 41:1) Believers honor Christ when they combine wholehearted worship with consistent, compassionate care for the poor—an enduring responsibility until He returns. |
    |