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Dallas…. Humes Briefly describe how the Old and New Testaments handled poverty as described in For the Least of These. Then discuss how much biblical notions about poverty can be applied to contemporary U.S. government policy.
Reply to my classmate POST………..Psalm 72:12-14 says, “For he delivers the needy when they call, the poor and those who have no helper. He has pity on the weak and the needy and saves the lives of the needy. From oppression and violence, he redeems their life; precious is their blood in his sight.” In the Old Testament, poverty is used in reference to God’s love. God’s love knows no bounds and therefore we as Christians must be understanding of those in poverty and extend a helping hand. But even then those who are poverty-stricken are often viewed as the “scum” of the Earth. According to a census, “The official poverty rate in 2021 was 11.6 percent, with 37.9 million people in poverty. Neither the rate nor the number in poverty was significantly different from 2020” (Creamer, 2022). So why do so many Americans think less of those suffering from poverty? One thought process is those in poverty are viewed as lazy. Many believe working hard is enough to be successful in life but outside factors can push someone into poverty. Such as losing your job, being a single parent, and only having minimum wage jobs available. Another big aspect that plays a role in poverty is mental health, which is why so many veterans are with homes and work. But none of these factors cross the minds of those who don’t show an understanding of poverty-stricken citizens. “The New Testament provides helpful illumination of the causes of poverty, the responsibilities of Christians and local churches for serving people in need, and requirements for those who receive aid from others. A concern for the poor is an integral part of Christian life and gospel ministry. Individual Christians should actively participate in helping others in need” (Zondervan, 2015). Scriptures of the New Testament should lift Christians to help those in poverty while also lifting those suffering from poverty up. These biblical notions about poverty can be applied to contemporary U.S. government policy. The United States government offers plenty of assistance to those in need such as food stamps, health insurance assistance, government housing, and discounted child care. It’s important to note that there are always people who don’t support these programs and believe the impoverished need to build themselves up instead of taking handouts. The reality is the Old and New Testaments both express the need to help those suffering from hardships instead of casting them out.
