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Responding to the Poor
Maverick Agpoon
School of Business, Liberty University
CSTU 101: Western Culture
Professor Dennis Rawls
November 17, 2025
Responsibility of Christians to the Poor
In the Bible, caring for the poor is seen as a moral obligation for God’s people, not a
choice. Scripture constantly teaches that believers must show compassion, generosity, and
justice to those who are in need. We can see that “God’s people are called to reflect His
character by caring for the oppressed and needy,” showing us that compassion is an indicator of
real faith. In a biblical perspective, Christians are commanded to address both physical and
spiritual needs of the poor as an act of obedience and worship to God.
Perspective of the Poor
In early Western culture, the perspective toward those who were poor varied. While
some charitable organizations existed, poverty was often seen as with suspicion or judgement.
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In ancient Rome, poor citizens struggled to obtain resources or social mobility. The poor were
“overlooked in societies that valued strength, achievement, and public honor,” uncovering a
cultural mindset that differentiated with biblical teachings. Rather than being seen as human in
need of care, the poor in many early cultures were disregarded.
Function of the State
The State in today’s age plays an important role in aiding to the poor, specifically with
social programs, public assistance, and community infrastructure. While governments carry
responsibility for supporting justice and basic needs, Scripture doesn’t put a primary
responsibility on the State. Instead, Christians are called to take personal action for loving their
neighbors and to advance the kingdom of Heaven through active service. As Keller (2010) tells
us, Christian mercy reflects the heart of God and demonstrates the Gospel through calling.
Primary Job of Christians
Ultimately, our jobs as Christians is to serve the Lord with all our heart by living out the
example of Christ. We are called to love other, share the Gospel, and care for those who are in
need. Serving the poor isn’t just a social job but a calling from God rooted in the character of
God.
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References
Keller, T. (2010). Generous justice: How God’s grace makes us just. Dutton.
Wright, N.T. (2012). After you believe: Why Christian character matters. HarperOne.
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