Giving Because We Can

In a world often driven by self-interest, the call to be charitable stands as a central tenet of the Christian faith. As Evangelical Episcopalians, we recognize that the Bible is clear: generosity is not merely an optional virtue but a divine command. Scripture repeatedly instructs us to care for the poor, the needy, the widowed, and the oppressed—not out of obligation, but as a response to the overwhelming grace we ourselves have received through Christ.

The Biblical Foundation of Charity

From the Old Testament to the New, God’s expectation for His people to be charitable is unmistakable.

1. Charity as an Act of Obedience

The command to be generous is woven throughout the Law and the Prophets. In Deuteronomy 15:11, God declares:
“There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land.”

This is not merely a suggestion—it is a command. To withhold charity when we are able to give is to act in disobedience to God’s will.

Similarly, Proverbs 19:17 reminds us that our acts of generosity are ultimately given to God Himself:
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”

Giving to those in need is not just a social duty—it is a sacred act of worship and trust in God’s provision.

2. Jesus’ Teachings on Generosity

Jesus not only taught about charity but embodied it. His ministry was filled with acts of compassion, healing, and provision for those in need. He fed the hungry, healed the sick, and reached out to the marginalized.

One of His most direct teachings on charity comes in Matthew 25:35-40, where He describes the final judgment:

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Here, Jesus equates acts of charity with serving Him directly. The love of Christ compels us to care for those in need—not as an act of religious duty, but as a response to the love He has shown us.

3. Charity as a Mark of Christian Identity

The early Church took Jesus’ command to heart. The book of Acts describes a community where believers shared what they had so that no one was in need:

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” (Acts 2:44-45)

This radical generosity was not an isolated event but a defining feature of the early Christian movement. Their willingness to give freely set them apart from the world and testified to the transformative power of the Gospel.

The Heart Behind Charity: Giving as a Response to Grace

As Evangelical Episcopalians, we do not give to earn God’s favor—we give because we have already received His immeasurable grace. 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us:

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

True Christian charity is not forced but flows from a heart transformed by Christ. We give not to be seen, not for recognition, but because we have been given the greatest gift of all—salvation through Jesus Christ.

Practical Ways to Live Out Biblical Charity

Charity is not just about financial giving—it is about a lifestyle of generosity in all areas of life. Here are some ways we can put biblical charity into practice:

• Supporting Local Ministries & Missions – Whether through tithes, offerings, or volunteering, supporting church-led outreach programs is a direct way to serve those in need.
• Caring for the Poor in Our Communities – Look for opportunities to assist those struggling financially, whether through food banks, shelters, or simply being generous to a neighbor in need.
• Advocating for the Oppressed – Charity includes standing up for those who cannot stand for themselves. As Christians, we are called to be a voice for justice.
• Practicing Hospitality – Inviting others into our homes and sharing what we have, whether it be a meal or a listening ear, is a tangible way to demonstrate Christ’s love.
• Giving Time & Talents – Charity is not just about money. Serving others through our gifts—whether teaching, counseling, building, or simply offering encouragement—is just as valuable in the kingdom of God.

A Final Thought: A Life of Generosity Reflects Christ

The world often tells us to accumulate, to protect what we have, to seek security in wealth. But Jesus calls us to a different way of living—one of open-handed generosity.

As Evangelical Episcopalians, we recognize that everything we have comes from God, and we are merely stewards of His blessings. When we give freely, we reflect the very heart of Christ, who gave Himself for us. May we, as His followers, live lives marked by charity, not only in grand gestures but in everyday acts of kindness, generosity, and love.

For in the end, it is not how much we have that matters, but how much we have given away for the glory of God.

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Acts 20:35