Caring for the Poor

We live in a world that is focused on self. We want to live our lives without any interference from others, especially those who can’t take care of themselves.  We have come to live in a world that tries to insulate itself from the problems.  We would like to ignore people that need help, or at most, just send a check to someone.  God, however, is concerned with all of the affairs of all people.

James 2:5-7

I.) God’s Care of the Poor:

A.) Provision of Alternate Sacrifices: Leviticus 5:5-7, Leviticus 12:6-8

B.) God’s Provision for the Poor: Exodus 22:25-27, Leviticus 25:35-37, Leviticus 19:9-10, Leviticus 25:25-28, Leviticus 25:39-43

C.) Christians Response to the Poor: Proverbs 29:7, Matthew 5:42, Luke 6:30, Luke 19:8, Galatians 2:10, 1 John 3:17-19

II.) God Chooses the Poor:

A.) To Have Faith: Isaiah 14:32, Matthew 11:5, Ephesians 3:8, Hebrews 11:24-26, 1 Corinthians 1:26-29, 2 Corinthians 6:10

B.) To Be Heirs of the Kingdom: Luke 6:20, Matthew 25:34, Luke 12:32, Matthew 19:23-24

III.) Attitude Toward the Poor:

A.) Rich Dishonor the Poor: Proverbs 14:31, Proverbs 17:5, Amos 5:11

 

B.) Rich Blaspheme God: Matthew 12:24, Luke 22:64-65, Acts 26:11, 1 Timothy 1:13, Isaiah 53:3, 1 Corinthians 11:22

 

Food for thought: Are God’s Priorities, Your Priorities?