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You asked

how do new testament teachings on wealth and poverty echo or reinterpret this deuteronomic command?

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

Deuteronomy 15:7-8

If there is with you a poor man, any 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 from the book of Deuteronomy, part of a series of speeches given by Moses to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. It sets out laws and commands for how the community should live once settled, including ethical guidelines for their interactions with one another, especially regarding the poor.

What does 'opening your hand wide' mean for how you live and share resources today?

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Read alongside it

  • Leviticus 19:9-10

    Another Old Testament law ensuring the poor have access to food through gleaning.

  • Matthew 25:31-46

    Jesus identifies himself with those who are hungry, thirsty, naked, and imprisoned.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:13-15

    Paul encourages equitable sharing of resources among early Christian communities.

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