How does Tabitha's life reflect the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 25:40? Meet Tabitha (Acts 9:36-42) • Acts 9:36 records a literal historical event: “In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which is translated Dorcas), who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity.” • She faithfully served the needy, especially widows. Verse 39 notes, “All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing him the tunics and other garments that Dorcas had made while she was with them.” • After her death, believers urgently summoned Peter; God raised her back to life through him, and “many believed in the Lord.” (Acts 9:42) Jesus’ Teaching in Matthew 25:40 • “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’” • Jesus equates acts of mercy toward society’s most vulnerable with service rendered directly to Him. How Tabitha Mirrors Matthew 25:40 • Served “the least of these” – Widows had little social or economic power; Tabitha’s ministry centered on them. • Tangible love – She provided clothing, meeting practical, daily needs just as Jesus described in Matthew 25. • Continuous lifestyle – Scripture says she was “always” doing good deeds; her compassion wasn’t sporadic. • Christ-centered motivation – By caring for widows, she was, in Christ’s own words, doing it unto Him. • Evangelistic impact – Her resurrection led many to faith, showing how mercy ministry furthers the gospel. Supporting Scriptures • James 1:27 – “Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress…” • 1 John 3:17-18 – Genuine love acts, not just speaks. • Proverbs 31:20 – The virtuous woman “opens her arms to the poor.” • Galatians 6:9-10 – “Let us not grow weary in doing good… let us do good to everyone, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” • Ephesians 2:10 – Believers are “created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.” Practical Takeaways • Jesus receives service done to needy people as service to Himself. • Ordinary skills, such as sewing, become instruments of kingdom mercy. • Good works flow from saving faith; they do not earn salvation but prove it (James 2:14-17). • Consistent, hands-on compassion opens doors for the gospel. • Following Tabitha’s pattern fulfills Christ’s command in Matthew 25:40 and demonstrates the living reality of Scripture today. |
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