As previously discussed Acts 2:42 says the earliest Christians were devoted to fellowship. One element of this fellowship was seen in Acts 2 and Acts 4 as mutual material support, as well as an element of emotional and spiritual support. That leaves us with the question should this support be extended beyond the Church. Matthew 25 uses the phrase “these brethren of mine” to describe supporting the poor, the sick, the stranger, and the convict. In one sense it is a commendation of those who do reach out to these, and the other is a condemnation of those who do not.
Many current congregations offer a variety of benevolence ministries. Unfortunately food pantries and soup kitchens are becoming more and more commonplace. Some make the argument that these need to be limited to church members, non- Christians need not apply. Others say that such ministries should be open to anyone who may be in need, whether church members or not. Those who argue that these are for church members only rely on the word brethren being limited to just that, fellow church members. Easton’s Bible Dictionary defines brother as used in Matthew 25:40 as, “a disciple or follower”. However, Vine’s Greek Dictionary defines the same word as simply, “mankind”.
Perhaps the best way to answer this is to look at how Jesus dealt with those outside those who could be called His brethren, non-Jews. Four examples come to mind. The Roman Centurion who came asking for a healing, not for himself but for one of his servants. Jesus commended the Roman’s show of faith. The Canaanite woman came asking for Jesus to relieve her daughter of the demon that tormented her. Again Jesus complied with her request, and commended her faith. Twice Jesus fed literally thousands with just a few loaves of bread and a few small fish. The nationality of these people is unknown.
I believe both ideas are valid. Christians should be able to turn to their “brothers” in the church when they find themselves in need. If a non-Christian approaches with a need the church can meet that need with the Gospel Message accompanying whatever material goods may be given. Consider it this way. With the sharing of the Gospel you have planted or watered, eventually God will get the increase.
Dr. Oberg
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2 comments:
I've dealt with a number of (evidently) non-christians seeking help from the church. The evidence is when I ask them if they've sought help from their own church and invariably they say they have no church.
Sometimes we help and often we can't, but I feel that GAL 6:10 assists in making sure of priorities where there is quite limited resources.
Mark,
In my time in the ministry I have had the opportunity to help many people either as a representative of the congregation, or privately and secretly. There is only one occasion where I flat turned someone away, and that was because they tipped their hand to show their true intention - ripping off the church.
I have had fellow ministers who wanted to give just enough to get someone to the next little town down the road. I have also had some say flat out, only members need apply.
I agree with your reference to Gal 6:10. We need to do our part, and if the person is ripping us off, God will get them eventually.
Dr. O
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