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NASB | Matthew 10:16 ¶ "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 10:16 ¶ "Listen carefully: I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; so be wise as serpents, and innocent as doves [have no self-serving agenda]. [Gen 3:1] |
Bible Question: When it comes to 1 John 3:19 - If you have this world's goods and see that your brother hath a need... My question is, does this apply at all times. Is there ever a time when we should not give? Do you think it is o.k. to give money that is marked for your rent or for a particular bill to a brother even if it may mean getting behind or losing a particular service? What about when you know that something that someone has need of could have been obtained by them but neglected to do what could have been done to get it fairly easily? What about if you know their neglect to do is a consistent one. Is it ever wrong to decline giving but instead giving good and feasable advice on how to get it and, or helping them to get it. |
Bible Answer: Wow, hisown, this is a tough one. I would have to answer with "it depends." :-) The scripture tells us to be as wise as serpents and as harmless as doves. So I think one has to use a lot of wisdom. Remember, too, that Christ calls us to be men of our word (James 5:12), to pay our vows (Ps 22:25), not be theives (Ex 20:15), get out of debt quickly (Prov 6:1-3), and don't withhold payment (Prov 3:27). All of this comes into play. As a recovering drug adict, I never give money to someone who uses drugs. I feel strongly about this. On the other hand, if I am withholding from someone in need for my own selfish reasons, that isn't the proper motivation either. (Luke 6:30) So, again... I'd say it all depends. Sometimes there are no clear answers, only principles. |