Memory Verse: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto those who are of the household of faith”- Gal. 6:10.
Bible Passage: Acts 9:36-41.
Introduction
Rendering help is the act of giving and or assistance (whether material or services) to people in need. It can be in the form of Corporate Social Responsibility or personal assistance to the less privileged. More importantly, the Bible encourages us to help members of the household of faith.
OUTLINES
WHO NEEDS OUR HELP
HOW SHOULD WE HELP?
WHO NEEDS OUR HELP
The following people should be helped: the committed brethren in need (Gal. 6:10), the aged (Lev. 19:32), the widow/widowers (James 1:27), orphans and the deserted helpless (Ps. 82:3), the poor (Prov. 19:17), the specially challenged (emotional , physical, mental, etc), 2 Sam. 9:3,13. Our help should primarily be to our needy family members(which includes our parents)-1 Timo. 5:8), members of the household of faith (Gal. 6:1), then to members of our society whether known or unknown, good or bad. It is necessary to help brethren by connecting them to people or places to get good jobs , pay hospital bills , get scholarships for children education etc.
While this gestures should not be an excuse for some people to be lazy, indulge in begging or feel entitled, believers should note that everything we have is given to us by God (Ps. 68:19; 1 Cor. 4:7). Therefore, we should be encouraged to give to people in need or render services because these results in blessings (Prov. 22:9). Rendering help and expecting nothing back from the recipient is a great way to be Christ-like (Luke 6:34-35).
HOW SHOULD WE HELP?
As believers , it is important to know that the help we render should be rooted in love (1 Cor. 13:3) even as it allow us to serve God better (2 Cor. 9:8). Giving for instance, is an outward sign of our love for others (1 John 3:17) and we should give expecting God to provide (Luke 6:38). Sometimes, our giving can be a measurement of our faith (Mal. 3:10). However, the state of the heart of the giver matters more than the size of the gift (Luke 21:1-4).
While encouraging the believers in Corinth to give generously, Paul did not want them to give beyond their means , “reluctantly or under compulsion” (2 Cor. 8:12). More importantly, he wanted them to rely on their inner convictions (2 Cor. 9:7). No one should give under duress but giving , even when you are reluctant can be learning process especially when you do not have a surplus.
CONCLUSION: God loves it when we give (2 Cor. 9:7) and He will always pay back in ways we least imagine.
QUESTIONS
Mention four (4) set of people that needs our help.
How can believers meet the need of people.
ASSIGNMENT
Mention five (5) categories of people who are in need of help in the Church and the society at large (2×5=10 Marks).
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