Remember the Poor

 Job 28-29; Galatians 1-2 

“All they asked was that we should continue to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do.”

Galatians 2:10

The outcome of the ‘doctrinal discernment’ council in Jerusalem, recorded in Acts 15, is described by Paul here in his letter to the Galatians as, ‘remembering the poor’. What was at stake was the message of salvation by faith and grace, not by works and laws. Yet, the evidence that Gentiles and Jews have been transformed by the saving grace of God in Christ is that they remember the poor and live generously.

Is that still clear to evangelicals who defend the Gospel?

Have our beliefs and correct doctrine produced a loving, generous, and compassionate lifestyle that prioritizes the poor?

Or have we become modern-day Pharisees concerned more with correct wording than with compassionate living?

Paul’s Gospel defense reminds us that we don’t have to choose. We can pursue the integrity of the Gospel of Christ and express our beliefs with compassion and generosity toward the poor, both around the world and here at home.

“…for your glory.”