Matthew 7:1-5

We are told not to judge hypocritically or self-righteously. At the same time, we must be wary of “dogs” (v 6, people of untrustworthy character), false prophets (v 15), and of those who have no “fruit” in their lives (v 16).

We are instructed to test false spirits and judge all things, but not condemn those who, like ourselves, are weak and subject to failure. This instruction is a warning not to make hasty condemnatory judgments of others. We must not allow a critical attitude to control us. The harsh judgment of others will boomerang back on us.

What You Sow, You Reap

There is another saying, “What you sow, you reap”. This, too, is a scriptural principle. (Galatians 6:7-10). It is a natural, financial, and spiritual law. God loves a cheerful, generous giver. (2 Corinthians 9:5-14). The Lord expects us to be good stewards of all he has given us, whether natural or supernatural. We must be faithful in all things.

This principle is true in financial matters. If you honour the Lord, he will honour you. The reward in giving is very real. (Proverbs 3:9). There is another saying: “It is more blessed to give than to receive”. (Acts 20:35). We cannot buy spiritual wealth but God rewards true giving, not necessarily in monetary ways but in spiritual ways.

The Misuse of Giving Principles

Sadly, in recent years, there have been “prosperity preachers” who have taken this teaching completely out of context, thereby taking advantage of God’s people and cajoling them to give to their own private funds. These people have thereby consequently become very wealthy. Their method is to use Scripture to mislead people into giving money to them with the belief that if they do, they themselves will get a huge amount back.

There are now multimillion-dollar preachers who have personally benefitted while much of the world is suffering. I don’t believe this is what God intended. It is one thing to give to God’s work but another to give to unscrupulous people who get rich. Jesus spoke about the deception of wealth, and there are many warnings in Scripture that people who fall into the trap of greed and covetousness will themselves be enslaved. (Matthew 13:22, Mark 4:18-19, 10:23-25, 1 Timothy 3:3, 8, Jude 1:11, 2 Peter 2:15).

Preachers who do this must repent or they will face the consequences before the Lord. Sadly, through the centuries the church has at times become excessively rich and built glorious buildings and accumulated much wealth. However, all the riches of this present age will come to nothing. (Revelation 18:11-17).

Jesus’ Message to the Rich and Poor

Jesus has a message to the very rich, and that is to give it away, and he has a message to those who are poor and have nothing, and that is to trust him for a great reward. (Luke 4:24, 18:18-23, James 5:1-20, Luke 21:1-4). God has great rewards in heaven for all who are faithful to him. (Luke 14:12-14). He generously rewards those who give with a pure heart.

Caring for Those in Need

We are instructed to care for our parents, older people, widows and orphans, the destitute, and all in need. (Ephesians 6:1-3, 1 Timothy 5:1-3). Every believer needs to develop avenues of giving, whether to the poor and needy or people they know and love or to genuine Gospel work.

Join me as we continue on our journey through “A Life of Faith.”

Blog series Eight – Keys to Growing in Christ