Poverty vs. The Gospel

Scripture Prompt

Did Jesus pit one against the other?

Reviewing Bible commentaries about this single scripture verse, I was shocked to learn that some churches have viewed this as permission to ignore the plight of the poor. What?? I suspect it comes from a misguided belief that poverty is the result of sin or laziness. Choosing select verses in Proverbs 13 might prove this belief true, but various scriptures and Jesus have other things to say about poverty.

The remark from Jesus must be considered in its full context. He spoke these words during Passover Week before His death. A woman poured an expensive, fragrant oil on Jesus’ head and some of His disciples decried the wastefulness of her actions. They said it could be sold and the money used to provide for the poor. It should also be noted that Passover week was a time of giving and ministering to the poverty-stricken.

Note that Jesus didn’t say to ignore the poor. He said “you can help them anytime.” As God’s perfect Lamb, Jesus was being prepared for death this blessed week that preceded the Crucifixion. The worship of Jesus by this special lady was fulfillment of the Lamb’s preparation and He lauded her devotion.

However, in this context, Jesus’ admonished His followers to never forget the pre-eminence of the Gospel. Giving is only one of the spiritual gifts noted in Romans 12:3–8 and so much more is expected of the believer. Besides being fed, the poor must also be taught, lead, shown mercy, and more.

Jesus quoted the Psalms most often and Deutonomy second most. It is a writing from Deuteronomy that He quoted in our featured verse.

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