thinking bible.

You asked

how do later prophets (e.g., amos) critique the wealthy for ignoring these kinds of laws?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Deuteronomy 15:7-8

If there is with you a poor man, one of your brothers, within any of your gates in your land which Yahweh your God gives you, you shall not harden your heart, nor shut your hand from your poor brother; but you shall open your hand wide to him, and shall surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he wants.

This passage is part of Moses' final instructions to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. It's a collection of laws and reminders, stressing the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness to God within their community.

what responsibilities do we have to those in need within our communities?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Amos 2:6-7

    Amos condemns Israel for selling the righteous for silver and the needy for a pair of shoes, showing a disregard for justice and the poor.

  • Isaiah 1:16-17

    Isaiah calls for seeking justice, correcting oppression, and defending the cause of the fatherless and the widow.

  • Luke 12:16-21

    The parable of the rich fool highlights the danger of accumulating wealth without generosity toward God or others.

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