open hands, open homes

"Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality." (Romans 12:13 HCSB)

This is a short verse, but touches upon a large topic in the Bible. You may want to go deeper into the Word on the issue of sharing our resources and our homes with those in need. Below are some key passages to consider.

For further study:

Genesis 1-3... God provides food and covering for his creatures; humans are soul/body beings who have material needs as well as spiritual.

Exodus 23:6-11... In the Law God gives many instructions about the care and protection of the poor, widows, the fatherless, and resident aliens (“sojourners”).

Job 29:11-16... In one of the oldest books of the Bible, Job speaks of his care for the poor.

Psalm 112:9... The care of the poor is a characteristic (and blessing) of righteousness.

Isaiah 1:17; Jeremiah 7:6... Justice toward the poor is a big issue in the writings of the OT Prophets.

Matthew 6:19-21; 19:16-22; 25:31-46 ... These are some key teachings by Jesus in Matthew’s gospel about giving and about caring for the poor.

Luke 14:12-14... How to host a banquet, according to the Lord Jesus.

John 14:2-3... Central to the gospel is the truth that Christ goes to prepare a place for us and will bring us into the Father’s house that we may be with him. That’s hospitality!

Acts 6:1-7... How the early church cared for its widows, while at the same time keeping prayer and the preaching of the Word in top priority.

2 Corinthians 8-9... These two chapters by the Apostle Paul give a very comprehensive view on the topic of Christian giving; and note, this giving is anchored in the very grace that we have received from him who made himself poor that we might be enriched (8:9).

Philippians 4:10-20... Paul speaks of the blessing of receiving gifts while imprisoned.

James 1:27... What pure and undefiled religion looks like.

1 John 3:16-18... Our love for God, and others, is manifest in very practical ways.

Revelation 19-22... The Bible ends with the good news that we – we who were once alienated and enemies of God – are finally brought to the Lord’s banquet, and into a new and glorious home, where every tear will be wiped away and we will live with God forever.

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