Which other scriptures emphasize helping those "perishing for lack of clothing"? Setting the Scene • Job 31:19 sets the bar: “if I have seen one perish for lack of clothing, or a needy man without a garment,”. • Scripture consistently links genuine righteousness with practical aid—especially ensuring no one freezes, shivers, or “perishes” for want of something to wear. Old-Testament Echoes • Isaiah 58:7 – “Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and to bring the poor and homeless into your house; to see the naked and cover him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?” • Ezekiel 18:7 – “He does not oppress anyone… does not withhold food from the hungry or clothing from the naked.” • Deuteronomy 24:12-13 – Returning a poor man’s cloak before nightfall “will be regarded as righteousness before the LORD your God.” • Proverbs 31:20 – “She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” • Job 29:13 – Job recalls how “the one ready to perish blessed me, and I made the widow’s heart sing” (context: providing garments, v. 13-17). Jesus’ Teaching and Example • Matthew 25:35-36 – “I was naked and you clothed Me.” The King identifies with every destitute person who lacks basic covering. • Luke 3:11 – John the Baptist: “Whoever has two tunics must share with him who has none.” Sharing clothing is a non-negotiable fruit of repentance. Apostolic Instruction • James 2:15-17 – “Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes… and one of you tells him, ‘Go in peace; stay warm…’ but does not provide… what good is that? … faith without works is dead.” • 1 John 3:17-18 – “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no compassion… let us love… in action and truth.” • Acts 9:39 – The widows display “tunics and other garments that Dorcas had made,” celebrating practical service to the unclothed. • 2 Corinthians 8:14 – Paul urges equitable sharing so “your abundance may supply their need,” applying to every basic necessity, clothing included. Snapshot List of Key Verses to Remember Practical Takeaway for Today • Scripture never treats clothing the destitute as optional charity; it is covenant faithfulness. • The consistent command stretches from Mosaic Law through the prophets, the teachings of Christ, and the epistles. • Meeting this need proclaims the gospel in deed, honors Christ Himself, and validates living faith. Summary Truths • God notices those “perishing for lack of clothing.” • He calls His people to notice—and to act—so that no one created in His image shivers, ashamed or unseen. |
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