Definition and Context
Poverty and need are recurring themes throughout the Bible, reflecting both physical and spiritual dimensions. Poverty is often understood as a lack of material resources, while need can encompass a broader range of deficiencies, including spiritual and emotional needs. The Bible addresses these conditions with a focus on God's provision, human responsibility, and the call to compassion and justice.

Old Testament Insights
In the Old Testament, poverty is frequently mentioned in the context of social justice and God's covenant with Israel. The Law given to Moses includes numerous provisions for the care of the poor, emphasizing the importance of community responsibility. For instance, Leviticus 19:9-10 instructs, "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God."

The wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, often contrasts the outcomes of diligence and laziness, while also recognizing the plight of the poor. Proverbs 19:17 states, "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender." This reflects the belief that God honors and rewards those who care for the needy.

Prophetic Voices
The prophets frequently called Israel to account for their treatment of the poor and needy. Isaiah 58:6-7 declares, "Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and to bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?"

New Testament Teachings
In the New Testament, Jesus' ministry is marked by a profound concern for the poor and marginalized. In the Sermon on the Mount, He pronounces blessings on the poor in spirit, stating, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). This highlights a spiritual dimension to poverty, where humility and dependence on God are valued.

Jesus' parables often include themes of wealth and poverty, challenging societal norms and calling for a radical reorientation of values. The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) serves as a stark reminder of the eternal consequences of neglecting the needy.

The early church continued this emphasis on caring for the poor. Acts 4:34-35 describes the communal sharing among believers: "There were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, and lay them at the apostles’ feet for distribution to anyone as he had need."

Apostolic Instructions
The epistles further instruct believers on their responsibilities toward the poor. James 2:15-17 warns against empty faith without action: "If a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, keep warm and well fed,' but does not provide for their physical needs, what good is that? So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead."

Paul's letters also emphasize generosity and the importance of supporting those in need. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, he writes, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver."

Theological Reflections
The biblical narrative consistently portrays God as a defender of the poor and needy, calling His people to reflect His character through acts of justice and mercy. The Scriptures affirm that while poverty is a reality in a fallen world, God's kingdom offers hope and restoration. Believers are called to be agents of change, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in addressing both the physical and spiritual needs of those around them.