Tough Love

How does Christian community work in practice? If we don’t get this right, we’re in danger of living like people who have “given up their faith” (v 8). We may fail to prevent others from “turn[ing] away from Christ” (v 11). As if that is not bad enough, there is the damage we can do by bringing insult on the church (v 14). These are heavy-duty issues! It seems that getting it wrong in our Christian communities has massive consequences. It takes work to figure out what “love our neighbour” means in practice.

There are two dangers to avoid. The first is not caring enough, the second is over-indulging people. Positively, Paul encourages proper respect (vv 1 and 2) and calls for followers of Jesus to take their responsibility seriously (v 7). Paul would never allow “ministry” to squeeze out proper care for family (vv 4, 8).

How do we serve God and do what he wants us to do (v 4)? We do it by clearly identifying need and fulfilling our duty of care before God and to others. It seems that this does not just happen. Expressing love for each other demands thought and organization so that limited resources are targeted effectively (v 16) and everyone shares in the burden of care.

But what about over-indulgence? Is Paul being harsh when he speaks about younger widows (v 11)? Supporting certain people can be detrimental to them and impede them from carrying responsibility themselves. In fact, it can be so damaging that they end up renouncing their faith in Jesus altogether (vv 11,15) as it undermines their trust in him.

Are we serious about caring?

Respond in Prayer

God of compassion, who cares for the vulnerable, may our churches display your heart of care towards the needy. Forgive us for damaging your reputation through lack of compassion. Give me a soft heart and active hands to fulfill my responsibilities. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

Andy Bathgate

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).