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. “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. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.