Compassion for the Needy
Compassion for the Needy4
Showing Christ's Kindness
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 23:23A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of showing Christ's kindness to the needy, criticizing the church for often neglecting those who truly require help while focusing on those who can reciprocate kindness. He warns against the superficiality of hospitality that seeks only to benefit oneself, highlighting that true Christian love involves sacrifice and reaching out to the marginalized. Tozer draws parallels between modern practices and the behavior of the Pharisees, who were condemned by Christ for their lack of compassion towards the poor. He calls for a genuine reflection on our motives and actions in serving others, urging believers to embody the kindness of Christ without expectation of return.
An Accurate Description of the Lifestyle
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 25:35K.P. Yohannan shares a vivid depiction of the stark contrast between his impoverished upbringing and the abundance he encountered in America. He describes the stripping away of basic necessities and services, illustrating the harsh realities faced by many in his homeland. This experience left him in awe and confusion, prompting deep spiritual reflections on the disparities in lifestyles and economies. Yohannan emphasizes the need for awareness and compassion towards those living in poverty, urging listeners to evaluate their own lives in light of these realities.
Shutting Our Eyes to the Needy
By David Wilkerson0MAT 25:34David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of being intimately connected with Christ, which leads to a greater awareness of our responsibility to portray Him to the world. He highlights that on the Day of Judgment, we will be evaluated based on how we expressed Christ's love and compassion, particularly towards the needy. Wilkerson reflects on Jesus' teachings in Matthew 25, which inspire a genuine concern for the poor and a call to action in our lives and ministries. He reminds us that while good works do not save us, they are essential in demonstrating our faith and commitment to God's commands. Ultimately, we are called to engage personally in addressing the needs around us, guided by the Holy Spirit.
Welcoming Jesus
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 25:40MRK 9:37LUK 18:16JAS 1:27A.B. Simpson shares a poignant experience in Bombay where he encounters a young girl in desperate need, prompting him to reflect on the value of every child in God's eyes. He emphasizes that our response to the marginalized and needy should be rooted in welcoming Jesus, as He identifies with the least among us. Simpson encourages the congregation to open their hearts to the spiritually lost and downtrodden, highlighting the transformative impact of caring for children in need. He illustrates how the Bridge of Hope program has not only educated and uplifted many children but has also led to the spread of the Gospel in previously resistant communities. Ultimately, he conveys that welcoming these children is a privilege that brings joy and opens doors for God's work.