Topical Encyclopedia The concept of charity is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's love and compassion for humanity. The Bible presents charity not merely as an act of giving but as a fundamental expression of faith and obedience to God's commandments. The following entry explores the biblical understanding of charity, its significance, and its application as seen through various scriptures.Old Testament Foundations Charity in the Old Testament is often associated with justice and righteousness. The Hebrew word "tzedakah" is frequently translated as "righteousness" but also encompasses acts of charity and justice. The Law of Moses includes numerous provisions for the care of the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the stranger. For instance, Leviticus 19:9-10 instructs, "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." The prophets also emphasize the importance of charity as a reflection of true worship and devotion to God. Isaiah 58:6-7 declares, "Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?" New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, charity is elevated as a central tenet of Christian life. Jesus Christ exemplifies and teaches the importance of love and charity. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs, "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you" (Matthew 5:42). The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further illustrates the call to love and serve others, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, underscores charity as a manifestation of love, which is the greatest of all virtues. In 1 Corinthians 13:3, he writes, "If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing" . Paul emphasizes that charity must be motivated by genuine love and not by a desire for recognition or reward. Practical Application The early Christian community exemplified charity through communal living and sharing of resources. Acts 2:44-45 records, "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need" . This model of charity reflects the unity and selflessness that characterized the early Church. Charity is also seen as a means of storing up treasures in heaven. Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" . Conclusion The biblical call to charity is a call to embody the love and compassion of God in tangible ways. It is an integral part of living out one's faith, reflecting the character of Christ, and fulfilling the law of love. Through acts of charity, believers are invited to participate in God's redemptive work in the world, serving as His hands and feet to those in need. Nave's Topical Index Acts 6:2Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples to them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Nave's Topical Index Library The Decalogue: ii. --Man and Man St Gregory the Great (Ad 540-604) A Source Book for Ancient Church History Christianity and Society. "Confido" From the Beginning of 1785 to the End of 1786 The Bereavements of the Christian Home. [A] The Anointing of Jesus. The First and Great Commandment Face to Face with Shams Resources What is the significance of the folded napkin in Christ's tomb after the resurrection? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24)? | GotQuestions.org Why is there so much disagreement about holy communion? | GotQuestions.org Table: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Table: A Slab Upon Which Inscriptions Were Made Table: An Article of Furniture Table: An Article of Furniture: Made of Silver Table: of Testimony were Broken Table: of Testimony were Placed in the Ark of the Covenant Table: of Testimony: A Second Set Engraved Table: of Testimony: The Commandments Engraved Upon Related Terms Tax-gatherers (16 Occurrences) Over-against (156 Occurrences) Mephib'osheth (13 Occurrences) |
    |