I really do not know what I want to ask, or how to ask it in a succinct way, so take leaway in any replies. It revolves around proper biblical understanding in ministering to the needs of those who are 'hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison'.

How can we obey the command without destroying the gospel ministry of sowing and building discipleship relationships. Biblical conservative churches are oftentimes accused of targeting the gospel message to those who can benefit the church (money, help in ministry endeavors of the church, etc), and ignore those who will mostly always be needy (those who cannot really help in ministry - always a taker). I know it is easier for me to identify whether a person in the former group is interested in the gospel, but with the latter group is almost impossible for me as their needs never end. Is it really the meeting of their physical or emotional need or are they interesting in the gospel.

Maybe, in attempting to obey that command, I shouldn't be concern with their spiritual outcome. Just leave that up to God, but just do my job of actual ministering to the needy and helpless. Yet in the vast majority of times, the church (or individual Christians) cannot do enough to meet their needs or helpessness.

I think I will stop here in describing the dilemma I'm attempting to ask. Is the church falling woefully short in obeying that command, or is the church falling woefully short with all the commands; therefore, we should not talk about that command exclusively. In a way is Jesus teaching on our attitude, moreso than our actions? How can we really act upon it, and in what ways is it far harder today than it was back then, or is it?

Last edited by John_C; Sun Jul 25, 2010 6:27 PM.
John Chaney

"having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith . . ." Colossians 2:7