thinking bible.

You asked

how does this old testament command relate to jesus's teaching about helping 'the least of these'?

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

Deuteronomy 15:10-11

You shall surely give to him, and your heart shall not be grieved when you give to him, because for this thing Yahweh your God will bless you in all your work, and in all that you put your hand to. For the poor will never cease out of the land. Therefore I command you, saying, 'You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor, and to your needy, in your land.'

This passage is part of Moses' address to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the promised land. It's a series of laws and instructions intended to shape their society, particularly emphasizing care for the vulnerable within their community.

What does 'your heart shall not be grieved when you give to him' mean for our posture toward those in need today?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Matthew 25:34-40

    Jesus describes serving the hungry, thirsty, and imprisoned as serving him directly.

  • Proverbs 14:31

    This proverb states that oppressing the poor insults one's Maker, but being kind to the needy honors God.

  • James 2:15-16

    James critiques faith without action, specifically regarding those lacking food and clothing.

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