BIBLICAL TEXTS
Even though this is not an exhaustive list of Biblical references to poverty and injustice, it demonstrates the importance of advocacy. Such references point out the Biblical mandate to care for those who suffer from hunger and poverty. Caring includes addressing the needs of the poor on a micro level by literally giving out food, clothing etc. as well as engaging in advocacy, which strives to change the larger power structures of the world so that they are more in line with a Godly view of justice.
​
OLD TESTAMENT
Ex 16:1-30 Trust God to provide our needs
​
Ex 22:21-23 You shall not oppress the resident alien
​
Ex 23:1-9 Do not pervert/deny justice to your people
​
Lev 19:9-10 Leave gleanings for poor people
​
Lev 19:15-16 Judge with justice; do not take advantage
​
Deut 15:1-11 Sabbatical year and remission of debts
​
Deut 16:18-20 Justice, and only justice, shall you pursue
​
Ps 82 God wants justice for the weak and destitute
​
Prov 21:13 Listen to the cry of poor people
​
Prov 22:9 Those who are generous with the poor are blessed
​
Is 5:1-17 The Lord is exalted by justice
​
Is 58:1-14 The true fasting that God desires
​
Mic 6:6-8 What God truly requires
​
​
​
NEW TESTAMENT
Mt 6:25-34 First seek God and God's justice
​
Mt 25:31-46 "I was hungry and you gave me food"
​
Mk 6:30-44 Feeding the five thousand
​
Mk 10:17-22 The man with many possessions
​
Mk 12:28-34 The great commandment
​
Lk 4:16-21 Jesus sent to bring good news to the poor
​
Lk 10:25-37 Parable of the Good Samaritan
​
Lk 14:12-14 Invite poor people to your dinner
​
Jn 8:1-11 The woman caught in adultery
​
Acts 2:44-45 The believers provided for each other’s needs
​
Rom 15:24b-29 Paul’s churches helping the poor of Jerusalem
​
2 Cor 9:11-15 Generosity is enriching and an expression of the gospel
​
Hebrews 10:23-25 Encouragement to be concerned for one another
​
James 2:1-9 Love all people the same; especially the poor, despite appearances
​