|
Topic:
Thoughts
And Things Of The Bible -- Alms
The word "alms" is mot found in the Old Testament, but
repeatedly in the New. The Mosaic legislation (Lev. 25:35; Deut. 15:7)
tended to promote a spirit of charity, and to prevent the occurrence of
destitution among the people. Such passages as these, Ps. 41:1; 112:9;
Prov. 14:31; Isa. 10:2; Amos 2:7; Jer. 5:28; Ezek. 22:29, would also
naturally foster the same benevolent spirit. In the time of our Lord,
begging was common (Mark 10:46; Acts 3:2). The Pharisees were very
ostentatious in their almsgivings (Matt. 6:2). The spirit by which the
Christian ought to be actuated in this duty is set forth in 1 John 3:17.
A regard to the state of the poor and needy is enjoined as a Christian
duty (Luke 3:11; 6:30; Matt. 6:1; Acts 9:36; 10:2, 4), a duty which was
not neglected by the early Christians (Luke 14:13; Acts 20:35; Gal.
2:10; Rom. 15:25-27; 1 Cor. 16:1-4). They cared not only for the poor
among themselves, but contributed also to the necessities of those at a
distance (Acts 11:29; 24:17; 2 Cor. 9:12). Our Lord and his attendants
showed an example also in this (John 13:29). In modern times the
"poor-laws" have introduced an element which modifies
considerably the form in which we may discharge this Christian duty.
Derived from Easton's and Smith's Bible Dictionaries
Fair Use. Presented for educational purposes only.
If these words have been a blessing, please forward them to a friend.
These words were posted at one of Shepherd's Care Ministries Sites
called Wisdom Minute. This site is located at:
http://www.findthepower.com/wisdomminute
Shepherd's Care Ministries Main Site located at:
http://www.findthepower.com/ |
