The Christian and Liberality

Although the term "liberal" is one which all of us in the church try to avoid with sound doctrine, we very often forget that we can be very liberal in the eyes of the Lord and be found more pleasing in His sight: if we are liberal in our giving to those who are in need.

The job of giving liberally to those who are in need is for the individual Christian, and not the church itself. We are told to give often, yet never as a composite church, but as individuals. As it is not my intent here to discuss this portion of the issue in depth, please visit http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/denominations/NI.html for more information.

Unfortunately, many of us get so wrapped up in arguing against the church giving liberally to those in need that we forget our individual command to do so. This is a grievous error! Scripture is very clear on our responsibilities, as shown in Matthew 25:34-46: