Welfare was transferred from the church to the government because the church neglected the responsibility. It can be recovered, and once again the church must become the leader in caring about genuine personal needs. This is not an option from God; it is an imperative. "The one who gives to the poor will not be in need, but one who turns his eyes away will receive many curses" (Proverbs 28:27).

However, Scripture also points to several factors that qualify those who should be the recipients of "biblical welfare":

• Poor -- those unable to meet the most basic needs (see Deuteronomy 15:7-11; Proverbs 19:17).
• The diligent -- many people are lazy by nature and supporting these people is just as unscriptural as not supporting those with legitimate needs (see Proverbs 16:26).
• Widow -- a qualified widow is biblically defined as a woman 60 years old or older whose only husband has died (see 1 Timothy 5:3-10).
• Orphans (see Psalm 82:3; Zechariah 7:10 and others).
• Those needing immediate care (see James 2:15-16). They may not qualify as "poor" or "widows," but simply "lacking of the daily food" as a result of unemployment or illness.
• Lifestyle -- Scripture indicates believers should have a moderate lifestyle, but not one of poverty. "It is not that there may be relief for others and hardship for you, but it is a question of equality" (2 Corinthians 8:13).

Committed Christians should encourage their church leaders to establish a benevolence ministry. A portion of every church's budget should be designated for needs in the fellowship, in the community and even in other areas of the country.

Each church should have a resource team to counsel families in need, to determine who does and does not qualify. There should be such an atmosphere of sharing and caring that members feel as free about sharing a financial burden as they would a physical problem.

Our goal should be that when faced with needs from within the Christian community, we will respond appropriately without relying on government help. After all, realistically, government handouts are not helpful in the long term, and the government welfare well is running dry.

These suggestions, based on biblical principles, not only inform us of what the church is capable of doing, but what the church must do.

Published April 10, 2009.

Copyright 2009 Baptist Press. Used with permission. All rights reserved.