What other biblical figures exemplify service and charity like Tabitha? Tabitha’s Standard of Service Acts 9:36: “In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which is translated as Dorcas), who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity.” Tabitha’s life sets a high bar—hands-on compassion that met real needs and drew others to Christ. Kindred Hearts in the Old Testament • Ruth – Ruth 2:11-12: Boaz said, “I have been fully informed of all that you have done for your mother-in-law… May the LORD repay your work.” Ruth left everything to serve Naomi, modeling loyal, sacrificial care. • Boaz – Ruth 2:8-9: He safeguarded and provided for foreign gleaners, showing hospitality to the vulnerable. • Widow of Zarephath – 1 Kings 17:14-15: Despite extreme scarcity, she fed Elijah first; God kept her flour and oil flowing. • The Shunammite Woman – 2 Kings 4:8-10: She built a rooftop room for Elisha, turning her home into a ministry base. • Joseph (Genesis 45) – Though wronged by his brothers, he fed an entire nation and his own family during famine. Kindred Hearts in the New Testament • Lydia – Acts 16:14-15: After baptism she urged, “Come and stay at my house,” opening her resources to the missionaries. • Barnabas – Acts 4:36-37: Sold land and laid the proceeds at the apostles’ feet, launching a pattern of church generosity. • Priscilla and Aquila – Romans 16:3-4: “Who risked their lives for me.” They housed Paul and taught Apollos, uniting doctrine with hospitality. • Phoebe – Romans 16:1-2: “A patroness of many, including me.” She financed and delivered ministry, likely even carrying the Roman letter. • Onesiphorus – 2 Timothy 1:16-18: “He often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.” Practical, courageous support for a jailed apostle. • Epaphroditus – Philippians 2:25, 30: “He nearly died for the work of Christ,” bringing the Philippians’ gift to Paul at great personal risk. • Joseph of Arimathea – Luke 23:50-53: A “good and righteous man” who used his own tomb and influence to honor the crucified Lord. • The Good Samaritan (parable) – Luke 10:33-35: Compassion crossed social barriers; he bandaged wounds, paid expenses, and promised follow-up care. Shared Motifs of Charity • Seeing the need—no blindness to suffering. • Immediate action—“went and did” more than “thought and felt.” • Costly involvement—time, money, reputation, even life itself. • God’s multiplication—He replenishes flour, oil, courage, and resources given in faith. • Witness to the gospel—each act opened doors for God’s redemption story to advance. Taking the Pattern Forward Scripture’s servants—from Ruth’s barley fields to Lydia’s riverside and Tabitha’s sewing room—show that charity is a lifestyle, not an event. The same Spirit who empowered them equips believers today to notice, to move, and to give until Christ is seen and thanked. |
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