MEETING PEOPLE’S NEEDS
MEETING PEOPLE’S NEEDS
TEXT: Acts 6:1-7; James 1:27; 2:14-17; 1John 3:17,18
MEMORY VERSE: Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another” (1Peter 3:8).
CENTRAL TRUTH: Believers should show empathy to people in need.
INTRODUCTION:
Growth can bring problems, and the early Church was no exception. The revival that brought in multitudes also produced a crisis that had to be dealt with wisely. One of the problems in today’s society is the friction that develops among people of different backgrounds when they are brought together.
Even though the early Christians were converted, they still brought their various backgrounds with them into the Church Such a combination of people with different backgrounds and exposures can cause problems even when those individuals are Christians. The Apostles, who were the Church’s leaders, were soon alert to the developing crisis. Being full of the Holy Spirit, they faced it and dealt with matters as he gave them wisdom.
1. MEETING PEOPLE’S NEEDS: Acts 6:1-7
We do not know how much time elapsed between Acts 5:42 and 6:1. However, we see immediately that the Church was enjoying steady growth.
Not only had the Church trouble from outsiders, but there were problems inside the Church. Among other things, murmuring was heard among the members. So many people from different backgrounds had been called into the Church so fast that the problem causing the discord was inevitable.
The society into which the Early Church was thrust was totally different from the world we now know. Career opportunities were not open to widows. They had to depend on their families for financial support, and if they had no families. the responsibility fell on the Church. The Church’s handling of this responsibility came into question in Acts 6 by Grecian believers who alleged that the Hebrew believers were distributing this help unevenly.
2. COMPASSION FOR OTHERS: James 1:27; 1Jn.3:17,18. Isa. 58:1-12
This verse is one of only five in the King James Version where the word ‘religion’ is used. In three of the verses it refers to the Jews’ religion (Acts 26:5; Gal. 1:13-14). Christians do not use the word ‘religion' often because there is so much of it that is not genuine. In our day, ‘religion’ is not always synonymous with salvation. There are many people who are considered religious but have not been born again.
in this verse, however, James described the kind of religion on which God looks with favour. He was not trying to give a complete definition of religion, but he emphasized two essential characteristics that mark it as genuine (pure and undefiled). One concerns inward holiness, the other focuses on outward generosity.
3. FAITH IN ACTION: James 2:14-17
In this passage, James was not teaching good works as a means of salvation. His subject was good works after salvation. James instructed us, ‘don’t just talk about faith, live it’. There seems to be a ‘bite’ in the words, ‘though a man say he hath faith'. Words are cheap, but actions are costly. Never sit akimbo thinking that it is the responsibilities of others to “meet needs'. Look for needs to meet and God would raise men to meet yours.
The question. ‘can faith save him?’ is asked in such a way that it seems clear the answer is meant to be “NO”. We must consider this in the light of the context. Nowhere does the Bible teach that good works can merit salvation. James was not discussing conversion. His theme was a strong warning against empty profession of faith that produces no fruit.
To drive home his teaching, James employed an illustration that is powerful because of the ridiculous image it brings to mind. A Christian has no clothes or food, so he brings his need to another Christian, expecting help. Instead, he receives only good wishes. The person Who should help him basically says, “Have a nice day". He tells the needy person to be clothed and fed, but expects him to get his clothing and food somewhere else. This person who only offered his good wishes had the material means to help the other, but was not willing to put forth the effort. (1 Jn. 3:16-18).
it is often not that difficult to respond to the needs of an individual who shares our cultural background and traditions. However, there are many occasions when there is a wide social and cultural chasm between us and those requiring help. Such situations test our commitment to Christ. Often we absorb too easily the selfishness of this age.
Through the centuries, the Church has been in the forefront of helping people during disaster and other emergencies. However, it is often easier to contribute money to such programmes than to become involved personally. It is likely there are people in our own neighborhoods to whom we can minister. Their needs may not be financial. Many people simply need someone to listen and offer encouragement.
Be a channel of blessing!
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION:
1. Why did the presence of widows in the Church present such a touchy situation at the time?
2. Can we follow this biblical command to help if we are not wealthy?
3 If we are saved by faith without works, why does James say we must also demonstrate good works?
4. In what way can you be a “channel of blessing’ in the Church?
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