Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

1. Paul, in several of his epistles - Ro 12:13; 1 Ti 6:17-19
2. The writer of the epistle to the Hebrews - He 13:16
3. James, in describing pure and undefiled religion before God - Ja 1:27
4. John, in describing the love of God, exemplified by Jesus - 1 Jn 3:16-19
5. For needy Christians, churches were charged how to provide aid
a. With a weekly collection, as one prospers - 1 Co 16:1-2
b. With thoughtful purpose, and a cheerful heart - 2 Co 9:1,7
6. Yet the local church most not be burdened (for its mission is spiritual, not social)...
a. Individuals are to fulfill their familial duties - 1 Ti 5:16
b. Individuals have their duty to be a ‘good Samaritan’ - cf. Lk 10:29-37
-- As we have opportunity, we have the duty to do good unto all men - Ga 6:10
CONCLUSION
1. Can we not see why the early Christians were so diligent to help the poor...?
a. They were not only obeying the commandments of Jesus and His apostles
b. They were also displaying compassion that has always characterized the people of God
2. There are certainly good reasons to “remember the poor”...
a. Those who do are blessed by the Lord - Psa 41:1-3
b. God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom - Ja 2:5
3. What can we do to remember the poor...?
a. Give liberally to the church, for the benefit of needy Christians
b. Give liberally to charitable organizations, to help others who may be in need
Let’s honor God and glorify Christ by remembering the poor...
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of
the household of faith.” - Gal 6:10
Mark A. Copeland
Topical Sermons 367