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