How does Matthew 26:9 connect with Proverbs 19:17 on helping the poor? The Setting in Matthew 26 Matthew 26:9: “For this perfume could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” • A woman pours costly perfume on Jesus. • The disciples object, viewing the act as wasteful because the money “could have” aided the needy. • Jesus affirms her act of worship (26:10-13) while also reminding them, “You will always have the poor with you” (26:11, echoing Deuteronomy 15:11). Wisdom in Proverbs 19:17 Proverbs 19:17: “Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.” • Helping the poor is presented as lending directly to God. • God Himself guarantees repayment, underscoring His personal identification with the needy (cf. Psalm 41:1; Matthew 25:40). Bridging the Two Passages Similarities • Both texts place the poor at the center of God’s concern. • Each frames generosity not merely as horizontal charity but as vertical devotion to the LORD. Key Connection • In Matthew 26, the disciples argue for giving resources to the poor; Proverbs 19:17 teaches that such giving is, in effect, giving to God. • Jesus, the incarnate LORD, receives costly devotion directly. In Proverbs, God receives devotion indirectly through care for the poor. • Whether resources are poured out at Jesus’ feet or placed in the hands of the poor, the ultimate recipient is the same Lord. Avoiding False Choices • Jesus does not rebuke generosity toward the poor; He rebukes hypocrisy and misprioritized criticism (cf. John 12:4-6 on Judas’s motive). • Scripture calls for both wholehearted worship and continual compassion—never one at the expense of obedience to the other (James 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17). Practical Takeaways 1. See every act of mercy as an investment with God Himself, confident He “will repay.” 2. Guard the heart: don’t cloak selfish motives with pious language about charity. 3. Honor Christ lavishly—time, talent, treasure—while maintaining open hands toward the poor (Acts 10:4; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11). 4. Remember Jesus’ words: “The poor you will always have with you” (Matthew 26:11). Their ongoing presence is a standing invitation to live out Proverbs 19:17 daily. |
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