Topical Encyclopedia The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of showing compassion and sympathy towards the poor, underscoring this as a fundamental aspect of righteous living. The Scriptures provide numerous exhortations and examples that highlight the duty of believers to care for those in need, reflecting God's own heart for the marginalized and disadvantaged.Old Testament Foundations The Old Testament lays a strong foundation for the exercise of compassion towards the poor. In Deuteronomy 15:7-8 , the Israelites are commanded: "If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs." This directive underscores the expectation of generosity and open-handedness towards those in need. The book of Proverbs also provides wisdom on this matter, stating in Proverbs 19:17 , "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender." This verse highlights the spiritual principle that acts of kindness towards the poor are seen by God as acts of service to Him, with the promise of divine reward. Prophetic Calls to Justice The prophets frequently called the people of Israel to account for their treatment of the poor, linking social justice with true worship. Isaiah 58:6-7 declares, "Is not this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free, and to tear off every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and to bring the poor and homeless into your home; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?" Here, the prophet Isaiah emphasizes that genuine religious devotion is demonstrated through acts of justice and mercy towards the poor. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies and teaches compassion for the poor. In the Sermon on the Mount, He blesses the poor in spirit, promising them the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:3). Jesus' ministry was marked by His concern for the marginalized, as seen in His declaration in Luke 4:18 , "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor." The early church continued this emphasis, as seen in the apostolic teachings. The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 2:10 , recounts that the leaders of the Jerusalem church urged him to "remember the poor," a charge he was eager to fulfill. This reflects the continuity of the biblical mandate to care for the poor within the Christian community. Practical Expressions of Compassion The exercise of compassion towards the poor is not merely a theoretical or spiritual concept but is to be manifested in practical actions. James 2:15-16 challenges believers: "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you tells him, 'Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,' but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that?" This rhetorical question underscores the necessity of tangible assistance as an expression of genuine faith. The biblical call to exercise compassion and sympathy towards the poor is a recurring theme that reflects God's character and His desire for His people to mirror His love and justice in the world. Through both Old and New Testament teachings, believers are encouraged to actively engage in acts of mercy, ensuring that the needs of the poor are met with generosity and kindness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 19:17He that has pity on the poor lends to the LORD; and that which he has given will he pay him again. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Compassion of Jesus Who is on the Lord's Side? Exodus 32:26. Jesus at the Bier The Poor Man's Friend The Incarnation. Our Compassionate High Priest Letter xiii. Christian Activity. The Omnipotence of Faith Eligius, Bishop of Noyon. False Comforts for Sinners. Resources How should Christians respond to global poverty and hunger? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about caregiving? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the Parable of the Prodigal Son? | GotQuestions.org Compassion: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Compassion and Sympathy: Christ Set an Example of Compassion and Sympathy: David Compassion and Sympathy: Elijah Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: Enemies Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: Saints Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Afflicted Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Chastened Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Poor Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Weak Compassion and Sympathy: Exhortation To Compassion and Sympathy: Illustrated Compassion and Sympathy: Inseparable from Love to God Compassion and Sympathy: Job's Friends Compassion and Sympathy: Motives to The Compassion of God Compassion and Sympathy: Motives to The Sense of Our Infirmities Compassion and Sympathy: Nehemiah Compassion and Sympathy: Pharaoh's Daughter Compassion and Sympathy: Promise to Those Who Show Compassion and Sympathy: Shobi Compassion and Sympathy: The Wicked Made to Feel, for Saints The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: An Encouragement to Prayer The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Afflicted The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Diseased The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Perishing Sinners The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Poor The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Tempted The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Weak in Faith The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Weary and Heavy-Laden The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Necessary to his Priestly office Related Terms Compassionate (22 Occurrences) Fellow-bondman (6 Occurrences) |
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