“The Least of These” Matthew 25:34-36, 40 James 2:14-17 May 24, 2009

I. Helping others is a practical ministry. There are practical needs that we can meet. – Feed those who are hungry. – Provide clean water to those who are thirsty. – Show hospitality to those who are lonely. – Give clothing to those who lack. – Care for the sick. – Minister to those in prison.

I. Helping others is a practical ministry. As we do it for the least of these we do it for the Lord.

I. Helping others is a practical ministry. As we do it for the least of these we do it for the Lord. – It is not who we serve, but what we do. – Serving others glorifies God by reflecting our love for Him.

II. Helping others is a spiritual ministry (James 2:14-17). What good is it if we do nothing about physical needs? – We have to do something. There is a need for discernment. – Words are not enough. “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed.”

II. Helping others is a spiritual ministry (James 2:14-17). Faith by itself is dead. – What is “genuine faith?” “…Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.” – Genuine faith produces good deeds. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith…not by works…. For we are…created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” -- Ephesians 2:8-10

Next Steps: Proverbs 28:27 “He who gives to the poor will lack nothing.” 1. Ask God to examine your attitude towards the needs of others; 2. Participate in the Food Drive for the “Neighborhood Pantry.”