NEW TESTAMENT GIVING-Part 21

NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 21

Whenever the scripture mentions “giving” it is not always concerned with money as we see in Galatians 6:2; “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” This is the very basis of the true believer’s relationship to his brethren (and of course subsequently the LORD). Whatever the burdens are which are born by our brethren, we are to stand with them and minister to them as we are able. The LORD JESUS plainly taught this to HIS disciples, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” (Mat 25:40) If we are the followers of CHRIST ought we not to emulate HIS example who “is touched with the feeling of our infirmities.” (Heb.4:15) Is this not the fulfilling of the very “law” of CHRIST who said to love our neighbor as ourselves. It is a right understanding of this principle which will be that which guides the true sons of GOD in regard to the stewardship of those goods which the LORD has placed within our hands.
The sixth verse says “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.”,(Gal 6:6) Since we have already commented on this subject we do not wish to labor the point . The blessing of a man is directly tied to his generosity. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” (Gal 6:7) Those who are the most blessed are those who are given a liberal spirit which carries with it great joy and gladness in serving the KING of kings. (see v.8)
Paul continually demonstrated that generous spirit which the LORD had granted to him as he reminds the Ephesians that he is the “prisoner of CHRIST” for their benefit,. (see Eph.3:1; 4:1) He was committed to their spiritual wellbeing because of the calling which the LORD had given him, from which he could not escape but gladly fulfilled for their profit, according to the measure of grace given to him. (see I Cor.9:16-19)
He gives a startling admonition when he says that we are to be “Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” (Eph 5:21) He has reference here to the relationship which the sons of GOD are to have towards one another as they come together in the local church. We are indeed our brother’s keeper which is again set forth for us in the example of marriage which is typical the relationship which CHRIST has for HIS church and subsequently as we follow in HIS steps, that which the brethren are to have one to the other. Let each esteem the other above himself.(see Phil 2:3)
“Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Eph 6:23)

(to be continued, DV) mam