The PuritanBoard - View Single Post

BJClark · #6 (**permalink**) 01-17-2008, 08:49 AM

duncan001;

I think it should be both as well, the church can certainly help with various needs of people, while we as individuals can help with other needs.

And in my opinion, helping the poor is not just 'giving' them food or money, it can also be in helping them to locate a job or teaching them a skill so they can begin to support themselves.

For example, if a Christian owns his own business, he could certainly offer to train someone who has no skills, or if the person has skills but his business doesn't need help in that area, he could call around to various business associates and see if they could hire the person.

Then if the person is really not wanting to work to support themselves, then Scripture applies..he who will not work, does not eat..and the church should no longer be under obligation to assist them further, as they have done all they could to assist the person.

If they honestly can not work, then the church could locate a few member families who might be able to financially 'sponsor' them, each family working together to help buy food or whatever the need..

The church and state would do well to apply that Biblical truth..