Doing Justice and Loving Mercy: Compassion Ministries, Mentor's Guide, MG16

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D O I N G J U S T I C E A N D L O V I N G M E R C Y : C O M P A S S I O N M I N I S T R I E S

b. Love is the litmus test and undeniable indicator of authentic experience of forgiveness and communion with God, 1 John 4.8.

4. The Holy Spirit indwelling the Christian and the Church is the coordinator and instigator of acts of mercy, love, and justice in the Church, Gal. 5.22-23.

II. Who Is My Neighbor? OT Understandings of Care Giving

A. God’s covenant people as a sign of God’s rulership and his Kingdom

1. An intimate connection exists between the blessing of God and the demonstration of justice and mercy among the members of the community, Deut. 7.12-16.

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2. The blessing of God upon his people was to mandate among them a ministry of care, Deut. 15.7-8.

3. The family was to provide relief for the needs of relatives, Lev. 25.25.

4. Tithes were collected for distribution among the poor, Deut. 14.28-29.

B. God demanded justice and mercy from his people.

1. God commands his people to show kindness to the poor, Prov. 14.21.