Beneficence
Summary
The practice of doing good to others, especially to the poor and needy, repeatedly commanded in Scripture as evidence of true faith.
☩Nature and Scope
Beneficence is the practice of active goodness, social and diffusive in character. Its objects include all who are within the sphere of one's influence, without respect to party or sect, and especially those 'who are of the household of faith' (Galatians 6:10). Its means include not only material provision but also prayer, sympathy, and appropriate counsel.
☩Old Testament Commands
The Law commanded Israel to be openhanded toward the poor and not to harden their hearts. Gleaning laws ensured provision for the destitute. The prophets condemned those who neglected the needy and promised blessing to those who loosened the bonds of oppression.
☩Wisdom Literature
Proverbs consistently connects generosity with blessing. The one who gives to the poor will not lack. A generous person will be enriched, and the one who waters others will himself be watered. The Psalmist declares blessed the one who considers the poor.
☩New Testament Teaching
Jesus taught that giving to the needy should be done secretly, not for public recognition. He illustrated true beneficence in the parable of the Good Samaritan and commended those who fed the hungry and clothed the naked as serving Him. The early church practiced radical sharing of possessions so that none among them had need.
☩Apostolic Instruction
The apostles organized collections for suffering believers and urged generosity as a fruit of the gospel. Paul devoted extensive teaching to the collection for the Jerusalem saints, urging the Corinthians to give cheerfully and abundantly, promising that God loves a cheerful giver.
Related Verses54 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.Charles Buck, "Beneficence," in A Theological Dictionary (Charles Buck (London), 1802).