Benevolence is “the act of giving money or help to people.” And the reason we’re going to talk about benevolence today is because benevolent activity is a remarkable demonstration of our love for God. In fact, I would contend that benevolent activity is a mark of true discipleship. Why? Because Acts 2:44-45 and 4:32-35 indicate that the first-century church emphasized benevolence. Since benevolence was such a big deal to the church in its beginnings, maybe we should consider exactly what the Bible has to say about it.

Matthew 6:1-4 (ESV)

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. 2 “Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.