Hearing God’s Call to Bless the Poor

Nehemiah led the exiles back from captivity to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, which were destroyed when the city was attacked by its enemies. As part of this major work, people began returning to live and work in the area. But the poor people who rented land from nobles and officials were unable to pay the rent and loans for the land they were farming. The oppressive behaviour of the rich soon came to Nehemiah’s attention.
As a society, we live in one of the richest nations in the world, yet poverty is still found both within our local communities and around the world, despite significant efforts to address it. As disciples of Jesus, what is our role in alleviating the suffering of those who can’t meet their most basic needs? What can we learn from the example of Nehemiah on how to respond to the cry of the poor and the oppressed?

Read Nehemiah 5:1-11

Discuss

• 1. Have you experienced poverty either directly (such as in your own family) or indirectly (such as living among the poor)? What was the experience like for you, and how has it shaped your perception of money and the way you live today?
  2. Nehemiah heard the outcry of the poor who were oppressed. What voices or cries of poverty are you hearing today? Which one resonates with you and why?
  3. Read James 2:1-7. What can we learn from this passage about a correct attitude towards people from different levels of society? How can our lives model God’s heart for the poor?
  4. Read Acts 10:3-4. How does God recognise our efforts to assist the poor? What does this tell us about God’s heart for the poor?
  5. Read Matthew 16:19–25, the parable of Lazarus and the rich man. What does the parable teach us about God’s expectations of the rich one man?
  6. Nehemiah discerned the root cause of the problem among the nobles, officials and the poor. Sometimes, people are impoverished due to unwise life choices, but for many it may be due to circumstances caused by others and/or the environment they are in. How do you personally discern the genuine needs around you? How can we balance this with grace, compassion and mercy?
  7. Nehemiah reminded the officials and nobles about walking in the fear of God. How does the fear of God guide our actions and attitude towards the poor?

  Respond

  Nehemiah responded to the cry of the poor by addressing the root cause of the ‘system’ with a spirit of compassion, mercy and generosity. Luke 12:48 states “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required.” The early church financially supported the needs within their community. What is one action you can personally undertake to respond to the poverty around you? Is there a financial need of a person or family in your Life Group? Consider how the group can discreetly and wisely provide some direct support to this family.As a Life Group, consider the many avenues of service in Life Care. Is there an action the group can take to serve collectively? Alternatively, contact your Life Group pastor for ways to get involved in supporting the needs in the community. Take a moment to pray for God to show your group how you can serve together with an outward focus.