From Anchor devotionals Words AND Deeds Matthew 25:31-46 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me. (MATTHEW 25:39-40) A popular adage exhorts us to Preach the gospel at all times; use words if necessary. This leads to some challenging questions. Should we meet physical needs and trust others will understand our motives? Or should we share the message of salvation with our words and leave the social work to charity groups? Many cite this parable to encourage us to focus on physical needs. Others point to the apostle Pauls definition of the Gospel as the truth that Christ died for our sins, was buried and then raised from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). This message requires words. So which is it? A man dying of starvation will not care what Jesus can do for his spirit if his body is in desperate need. A mother may not be concerned about Jesus death on the cross 2,000 years ago if her family doesnt have shelter today. But if we provide for the physical without addressing the spiritual, then we have cared for temporary needs and neglected eternal ones. Words or deeds? Jesus did both. And we should, too.
Posted on: Wed, 30 Oct 2013 09:03:41 +0000
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