Topical Bible: Character of Saints: Liberal

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In the context of Christian theology, the term "liberal" when applied to the character of saints refers to their generosity and willingness to give freely of their resources, time, and love. This attribute is deeply rooted in the teachings of Scripture and is considered a hallmark of a life transformed by the grace of God.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of liberality is woven throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of generosity as a reflection of God's own nature. In Proverbs 11:25, it is written, "A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" . This verse highlights the reciprocal blessing that comes from a liberal spirit, suggesting that those who give freely will themselves be enriched.

The New Testament further underscores this principle. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, the Apostle Paul writes, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" . Here, Paul encourages believers to give generously and joyfully, reflecting the heart of God in their actions.

Examples of Liberality

The early church provides a powerful example of liberality in action. Acts 2:44-45 describes the believers in Jerusalem: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need" . This communal sharing was a practical expression of their faith and commitment to one another, demonstrating a radical form of generosity that was both voluntary and sacrificial.

Another notable example is found in the Macedonian churches, as described in 2 Corinthians 8:1-4. Despite their own poverty, they exhibited an extraordinary level of generosity: "In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability" . Their liberality was not dependent on their material wealth but was a testament to their deep faith and love.

Theological Implications

The liberality of saints is not merely a matter of financial giving but encompasses a broader lifestyle of generosity. It includes the giving of time, talents, and emotional support. This character trait is a reflection of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life, producing a heart that mirrors the generosity of Christ Himself.

In Matthew 10:8, Jesus instructs His disciples, "Freely you have received; freely give" . This command encapsulates the essence of Christian liberality, reminding believers that their own salvation and blessings are gifts from God, to be shared freely with others.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, cultivating a liberal character involves intentional acts of kindness and generosity. It requires a heart attuned to the needs of others and a willingness to respond with compassion and resources. This may manifest in various forms, such as supporting missions, aiding the poor, volunteering time, or offering hospitality.

Ultimately, the liberality of saints serves as a powerful witness to the world, reflecting the love and grace of God. As believers embody this characteristic, they fulfill the call to be salt and light, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel in tangible ways.

Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 32:8
But the liberal devises liberal things; and by liberal things shall he stand.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Corinthians 9:13
Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution to them, and to all men;
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Love in the Old Covenant.
... which can be preferred only against the liberal rabbis. ... to and for His disciples
and for all His saints. ... never understood the close and unique character of the ...
/.../kuyper/the work of the holy spirit/xxix love in the old.htm

John Calvin. His Life and Character.
... for a Catholic, remarkably fair and liberal work, drawn in ... purer in motive, more
radical in character, more fruitful ... which Cop delivered on All-Saints' Day, in ...
/.../creeds of christendom with a history and critical notes/ 56 john calvin his.htm

The Life of God
... be rich also in noble deeds,' generous and liberal of their ... life, we must know God,
and God's character, to know ... as you will, about angels, and saints in heaven ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/the good news of god/sermon iii the life of.htm

Sacred Times --The Lord's Day.
... (Historical, literary, and liberal.). ... in the English language, of a popular and
practical character. ... with God and in the fellowship of the saints, a foretaste ...
/.../history of the christian church volume i/section 57 sacred timesthe lords.htm

Chapter xlvii
... to criticism had he provided for his own family in so liberal a manner ... his best friend,
and Joseph, knowing the true worth of character of true saints of God ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvii.htm

On the Perfection of Patience.
... basest of men are found among the ranks of the saints. ... of whom were clearly of such
a character and so ... caused to him, is healed by a liberal compensation: one ...
/.../cassian/the conferences of john cassian/chapter xvi on the perfection.htm

The Lord Coming to his Temple
All Saints' Day and Other Sermons. ... words and deeds the most difficult paradox of
human character- -to be ... Would He not be at once too liberal for some, and too ...
/.../kingsley/all saints day and other sermons/sermon iv the lord coming.htm

The Epistle to the Ephesians
... breach between the Judaeistic and the liberal factions of ... writing it was naturally
of a general character. ... their love to all the saints," involuntarily fixed ...
/.../drummond/introduction to the new testament/the epistle to the ephesians.htm

Behold all Ye that Kindle a Fire, that Compass Yourselves About ...
... They may be equally liberal in giving to benevolent societies ... 3. If selfishness is
the prevailing character of your ... Now, let the true saints rise up, and make a ...
/.../finney/lectures to professing christians/behold all ye that kindle.htm

Notes on Tauler's Teaching
... He is liberal indeed in extending to the spiritually ... passage in the sermon for All
Saints (see pp ... natural gifts which constitute personal character, such social ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tauler/the inner way/iii notes on taulers teaching.htm