Helping the Poor Saints

For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.

Romans 15:26

There were significant trials and temptations in the lives of the Christians in Jerusalem. There was opposition, persecution and a large proportion of the believers were materially poor and unable to manage daily needs. Paul knew of this situation and instructed, on the basis of love and care for the brethren, to take up a practical collection of financial resources to help the situation of the poor brethren. When there is a need that is expressed, those with a kind and helpful attitude will contribute, but what should a Christian’s response be when there is a need? We need to contribute and assist to relieve the poor, found in the apostolic instruction, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10)

Paul, in expressing the contributions of the Macedonians and those of Achaia, tell us how these believers helped other poorer believers.

It was a pleasure for them to help. It was a worthy and pleasurable cause and an  approved task in the mind of the Christians. To help was not a chore or something to complain about. They thanked God that they had a privilege to share and care. It is always a privilege and a worthy cause to help a brother. Is it possible that sometimes, there is the help that is given to other believers without a heart to do so? We need to love our brethren from our hearts. This is the will of God our Saviour.

It was an indication of fellowship. When the Christians gave to help other Christians relieve their poverty, it was not only a pleasure, but their contribution meant that they shared in the suffering of their Christian brethren. “Contribution” refers to sharing what we have. When we give to help, we not only give with a willing heart, but we also need to desire to be partakers of the other Christians’ lives and suffering. The saints were poor at Jerusalem, and the Christians at Macedonian and Achaia knew this. Therefore, they gave to contribute in care for the saints at Jerusalem. We need to do the same.

It was an indication of gratitude to God. The Macedonians and Achaians were Gentiles. They knew that their salvation, new life in Christ and redemption from sin and hell came from a Jewish Messiah. Their help of the poor brethren of Jerusalem reflected not only their willingness to help their brethren in need but also their gratitude to God for His grace, mercy and constant guidance and comfort in their lives through the nation of Israel and their God. Their contribution reflected their gratitude to the God they loved. When we love God, we will love the brethren. Our help and service for the brethren ought to be a reflection of our heart of love for God.

Is it a pleasurable thing to help our brethren? Do we give to share in the fellowship of their pain and trials? Do we have gratitude towards God for His love? As a gift for His grace, do we serve the brethren and love them in His name? These are important questions to ponder, because when we find the answer and do it, God will change our lives and help us grow.

Written by: Pastor Johnny Tan
Edited by: Timothy Lee
Image Credit: United Way of Greater St. Louis, Flickr