Is it wrong to ignore a beggar?

[Steven Wood]

If you're walking down the street and someone asks for spare change, is it wrong to ignore them, from a Christian point of view? Jesus said something like if someone asks for your tunic give him your cloak as well. The thing is, since I became Christian I feel I can't ignore beggars, but I have barely any money myself, and a lot of the people who are begging, I don't even believe they're homeless.

You read about the tunic and cloak didn't you read the rest of it? God Feeds the birds ands clothes the flowers and they don't work so why are you worried about yourself? He knows you don't you think you're better than the birds and flowers? Don't worry about yourself, give freely and really truly don't worry.

 

[ÏsâbeŁ: אֱלִישֶׁבַע]

No one has a right to live on a public sidewalk. Where does he go to the bathroom? Who's going to want to shop at the store he's in front of, or near? He's a public nuisance and the only reason not to throw him in jail is compassion. But, where's the compassion in leaving him on the sidewalk?

I think a halfway house for the homeless is the most compassionate and reasonable response society has. If there's not enough rooms, we can build more. Drinking and violence isn't allowed at halfway houses.

I think that video stupid and annoying. Firstly, they are making out that the people who won't hand their lunch over are selfish. For all we know those people may have scrimped to buy their lunch and might not be able to afford another. If somebody came up to you and asked for the food off your plate would you give it to them? We also know that the man making the video and begging for food off people's plates isn't homeless, which proves the point about not handing over food/cash to beggars. Secondly if that man with his luggage is genuinely homeless did they ask his permission to film him? If not, how unethical, and if so, then the video is fake - he knew they were filming and what for and of course shared his food.

I’m sharing this because I care. We as Christians will be held accountable for what we did or did not do. Please remember that. If you are struggling – pray and ask for help and reach out to mature Christians – those who bear fruit. I have prayed for you both that God in Christ will help meet your needs, whatever they are, and will help you both to open the eyes of your heart more (as we all need), though I don’t believe God forces this. And in terms of your needs, God in Christ knows what they are, I believe God can sometimes not change a situation because He is trying to change your heart.

Luke 10:25-37 (NIV): ‘On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked,“what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

“What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”

He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

“You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”

In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’

“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”’

Notice how the priest and the Levite didn’t even try to find out what happened – they just ignored him, they made up their mind to not care. And they were supposed to be religious!

John 14:24 (NASB): “He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me.”

Galatians 5:14 (NIV): ‘For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."’

 

[Laureate]

Well the thing is I don't believe the ones in my town are homeless. The other day I was walking through the street when a clean, well-dressed man sitting on the street pitifully begged me for spare change. I gave him about £2.50, which was all of my money. He immediately got up, called over his friend from the other side of the road and they went into a shop and bought cigarettes, before walking up some steps which lead only to a housing estate, clearly
going home to their house now they had their cigarettes. That was the last of my own money, I had barely any food myself.

I know, it does not make it any easier to extend our selves unto others when we see these things, and as I shared earlier in this thread, I also have personally
experienced this sort of discouragement;

However, as Ambassadors of the kingdom to come, should we not provide shelter, food, and clothing when
it is in our power to give these things?

If only we can see that it is heaven who weighs our hearts, and renders back unto us, as we incline to render unto others, then perhaps we can find His opinion more important than what appears to be true before us;

When asked for money, we should not decline, but rather ignore their request, and ask, what the money is for, if the question offends them, then continue on
about our bussiness and move on;

If they say that it is for food, shelter, or clothing, then we have the option to assist them as heaven would have us assist them, first examining if we can personally assist, and if not to whom we could send them to, to receive such assistance;

I know it is easier said than done, but try not to find any of them as a burden, as those who do not know who our heavenly Father is are inclined to do, and I am sure Grace will not steer you, or any of us wrong.

But it is important to know that heaven is judging us by our merits not theirs

 

[His Disciple]

Notice how the priest and the Levite didn’t even try to find out what happened – they just ignored him, they made up their mind to not care. And they were supposed to be religious!

The Jews didn't need to find out what happened. They knew what happened. They know what a beaten and robbed man looks like. They were just uncaring and there was no audience for them to Pope Frances (i.e. to publicly display kindness, not for the sake of kindness, but to con others into thinking you're righteous).

The question isn't wither to help or not. The question is how to help. Handing panhandlers money is a bad way to help.

 

[Laureate]

In my experience praying for Wisdom has been SO helpful! Sometimes “testing” the situation can I love it, I love it, I love it

Food, Shelter, Clothing, seek us who possess the kingdom within, and see if we have

We only curb our willingness (to do what appears to be a good thing) when it comes to following His graceful guidance that instructs us to do (apparently) otherwise;

also give some clues. I have sometimes offered to buy someone some food or a drink when asked for money, but in some cases, they have declined my offer. When this happens it seems to suggest to me that they may not be in imminent need after all (though it still can be tricky to know for sure). However, many have gratefully accepted these offers of mine when they have originally asked me for money – each case is different.

While I agree with a lot of what’s been said that it’s probably wiser to give what’s needed (i.e. food, water, clothing, shelter etc.) as opposed to straight cash I wouldn’t rule it out completely as there are always exceptions to the rule!

I would also like to add that Jesus helped all those who asked Him and sometimes only after would He say “go and sin no more.” I don’t recall Jesus ever saying this first when someone asked Him for help, only to then decline them ANY assistance!

I think it is also VERY difficult to know who cannot work vs. who “will not work”. Mental illness, for example, can be an extremely debilitating “invisible” illness – as can be addiction!

I love it, I love it, I love it

Food, Shelter, Clothing, seek us who possess the kingdom within, and see if we are able to offer, but money, why?

Ceasar is the only one Y'shua advised us to render Ceasars money unto, though Ceasar needs a course in Sovereignty, let us not offend him.

We only curb our willingness (to do what appears to be a good thing) when it comes to following His graceful guidance that instructs us to do (apparently) otherwise;

 

[A greater Hope]

The real question is if you were a begger should you want to be ignored?
#treat others as you would have them treat you.

 

[A greater Hope]

The real question is if you were a begger should you want to be ignored?
#treat others as you would have them treat you.

*would you want to be ignored?

 

[ÏsâbeŁ: אֱלִישֶׁבַע]

I know, it does not make it any easier to extend our selves unto others when we see these things, and as I shared earlier in this thread, I also have personally
experienced this sort of discouragement;

However, as Ambassadors of the kingdom to come, should we not provide shelter, food, and clothing when
it is in our power to give these things?

If only we can see that it is heaven who weighs our hearts, and renders back unto us, as we incline to render unto others, then perhaps we can find His opinion more important than what appears to be true before us;

When asked for money, we should not decline, but rather ignore their request, and ask, what the money is for, if the question offends them, then continue on
about our bussiness and move on;

If they say that it is for food, shelter, or clothing, then we have the option to assist them as heaven would have us assist them, first examining if we can personally assist, and if not to whom we could send them to, to receive such assistance;

I know it is easier said than done, but try not to find any of them as a burden, as those who do not know who our heavenly Father is are inclined to do, and I am sure Grace will not steer you, or any of us wrong.

But it is important to know that heaven is judging us by our merits not theirs

Very wise indeed! Amen brother!

 

[ÏsâbeŁ: אֱלִישֶׁבַע]

The real question is if you were a begger should you want to be ignored?
#treat others as you would have them treat you.

Yes! Well said!

 

[ÏsâbeŁ: אֱלִישֶׁבַע]

I love it, I love it, I love it

Food, Shelter, Clothing, seek us who possess the kingdom within, and see if we are able to offer, but money, why?

Ceasar is the only one Y'shua advised us to render Ceasars money unto, though Ceasar needs a course in Sovereignty, let us not offend him.

We only curb our willingness (to do what appears to be a good thing) when it comes to following His graceful guidance that instructs us to do (apparently) otherwise;

I think you make some very valid points, however, I just believe that there is always an exception to the rule to just to keep in mind.

There may be a time someone may ask you for money and genuinely need it (not for drugs, alcohol, gambling etc.) For example, someone may need to pay a fine, a bill, some expense for their child, a medical expense, a vet expense, etc. while I believe this would be rarer all I’m suggesting is that it’s still possible, so I’m just trying to encourage to always keep an open mind and not to determine a rule set in stone to never give any cash under any circumstances. But I certainly don’t believe as a Christian we should be providing money that will be used for harm or in an illegal way. If we know this will be done, or suspect that it might, then I don’t believe we should give cash but rather offer to pay for any basic needs, if we are able, as that would be unhelpful and I don’t believe our heavenly Father will be pleased with that. But I equally believe our heavenly Father won’t be pleased if we always ignore and just assume a negative belief regarding someone, and thus determine to not care or help when we are able – even if it’s as simple as praying for them from a sincere heart and concern.

 

[Laureate]

I think you make some very valid points, however, I just believe that there is always an exception to the rule to just to keep in mind.

There may be a time someone may ask you for money and genuinely need it (not for drugs, alcohol, gambling etc.) For example, someone may need to pay a fine, a bill, some expense for their child, a medical expense, a vet expense, etc. while I believe this would be rarer all I’m suggesting is that it’s still possible, so I’m just trying to encourage to always keep an open mind and not to determine a rule set in stone to never give any cash under any circumstances. But I certainly don’t believe as a Christian we should be providing money that will be used for harm or in an illegal way. If we know this will be done, or suspect that it might, then I don’t believe we should give cash but rather offer to pay for any basic needs, if we are able, as that would be unhelpful and I don’t believe our heavenly Father will be pleased with that. But I equally believe our heavenly Father won’t be pleased if we always ignore and just assume a negative belief regarding someone, and thus determine to not care or help when we are able – even if it’s as simple as praying for them from a sincere heart and concern.

Most definitely, in fact, I do it all the time (yet, I can not afford to give blindly), that is why I emphasize staying in grace, I'm pretty sure that is the open mind that you are referring to;

 

[Laureate]

You read about the tunic and cloak didn't you read the rest of it? God Feeds the birds ands clothes the flowers and they don't work so why are you worried about yourself? He knows you don't you think you're better than the birds and flowers? Don't worry about yourself, give freely and really truly don't worry.

The wonders of Trust, Awww so savoury to heaven!

Yet this passage your touching upon also pertains to the Kingdom come, which is another savoury subject, give praise!

 

[Cearbhall]

If you're walking down the street and someone asks for spare change, is it wrong to ignore them, from a Christian point of view?

I would say no. You don't know what the stranger will do or how he/she will spend the money. Better to do some research on charitable organizations and donate to those that are most effective. Your dollar will go a lot farther if it's funding programs.

 

[ÏsâbeŁ: אֱלִישֶׁבַע]

Most definitely, in fact, I do it all the time (yet, I can not afford to give blindly), that is why I emphasize staying in grace, I'm pretty sure that is the open mind that you are referring to;

Yes.

 

[danielkibby]

A lot of people say that scripture is widely misinterpreted as a reason to give everything you have to anyone who asks for it. I've always seen Matthew 5:40 as more of an indication of the heart we are to do things with, but not a reason to give everything to everyone.

One of my mentors lived in Boston and he said there were so many beggars you either gave or you didn't, he chose to give but unlike people who just gave them money he'd stop and talk to the people and that was something that stood out to them. They were used to being given money or food but never people's time, their sympathy but rarely people's compassion.

I don't give to every homeless person I see, I don't stop and talk to every homeless person I see, I think sometimes should I stop or give. I do give some times but most of the time I don't.

Once I've passed the person the thought passes. I feel sorry for them as I do for all the lost people of this world, homeless or otherwise but I don't beat myself up for not giving everything to everyone.

If I have to force myself to do something I’m not doing it with the right heart to start with and would be better to give in a way that I am able to maintain integrity with myself and be the cheerful giver God wants me to be.

I would happily give my time to a beggar or anyone who wants real change but you can’t help anyone who doesn’t want to help themselves.

Sin is a dark and dirty disease that plagues the flesh of all mankind so if you want to get in the ring with anyone else’s sin, you need to be sure you’re heart’s right and you’re able to comfortably deal with whatever someone may throw at you.

 

[namakele]

But it is important to know that heaven is judging us by our merits not theirs

Amen...& it's important to remember ...especially when it is so easy to feel disturbed when we feel like or have reason to believe someone is abusing...love (kindness, compassion,...)

 

[namakele]

Luke 6:27-36 (NASB): ‘“But I say to youwho hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.Whoever hits you on the cheek, offer him the other also; and whoever takes away your coat, do not withhold your shirt from him either. Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back. Treat others the same way you want them to treat you. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners in order to receive back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.’

Double Amen. & thank you for the reminder.

 

[Hetta]

I carry in my car some Ziploc bags. Inside those bags are a carton of juice, crackers, and various other non-perishable foods. When I see someone down and out, I give them one of those bags. I rarely carry cash, so I can't help them with that, but I can give to them something to assuage the hunger/thirst for a while. I don't assume that these people are rich or lazy or on drugs or whatever, but either way I don't believe it's for me to make that call. The Bible says to "not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." It doesn't matter to me whether they are angels or not, but they are people who by the appearance of it are destitute, and I won't turn away from anyone who has that appearance. If they laugh at me when I drive away and throw the bag in the trash, so be it. It doesn't take a lot of money to fill those bags, but for some they could be the difference between not eating/drinking that day, and that means a lot to me, and FTR I have never had anyone be anything but hugely grateful when I have handed one over.

You can also do the volunteer thing. Soup kitchens, food banks, these places away need volunteers. That's free for you to do, but you get something back! You get a sense of contributing to those in need, and that's a big thing.

 

[namakele]

Homelessness should only be made illegal after stores (& governments) are fined for destroying perfectly good food rather than distributing it (for FEAR that they will lose money, not realizing that people are money. We are supposed to be each other's money especially those of us who are great). & after corporations are forced to halt operations (compensating their workers from the BOTTOM up) when they are found to be scandalous &/ accessory to devastation whether environmental, economic, or otherwise. In my eyes there is a long list of things to be addressed & things that are already illegal that need to be recognized, acknowledged, & dealt with For REAL, before homelessness is made illegal. Wall Street....The $#!* that's being passed off & sold as food that the manufacturers won't even eat or give to their loved ones... The state of "Health care" or the fact that many of us even call it health care.

 

[namakele]

Homelessness should only be made illegal after stores (& governments) are fined for destroying perfectly good food rather than distributing it (for FEAR that they will lose money, not realizing that people are money. We are supposed to be each other's money especially those of us who are great). & after corporations are forced to halt operations (compensating their workers from the BOTTOM up) when they are found to be scandalous &/ accessory to devastation whether environmental, economic, or otherwise. In my eyes there is a long list of things to be addressed & things that are already illegal that need to be recognized, acknowledged, & dealt with For REAL, before homelessness is made illegal. Wall Street....The $#!* that's being passed off & sold as food that the manufacturers won't even eat or give to their loved ones... The state of "Health care" or the fact that many of us even call it health care.

...but of course what it would take to solve the problems with our (corrupt) governments & apparent system of things would automatically mean that we're in a place (heart set, mind set,point in time) where if anyone is "home"less it's because they just prefer the Great Outdoors that much more than a house (or some other reason that's good/ mature/righteous).
...U know cause in this case when the root of (all) problems is taken care of everything else is taken care of.