The concept of sharing is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of generosity, community, and stewardship. The Bible provides numerous teachings and examples that highlight the responsibility of believers to share their resources, time, and talents with others.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for the principle of sharing through the laws and practices given to the Israelites. In Deuteronomy 15:7-8 , God commands His people: "If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs." This directive underscores the expectation of generosity and care for the needy within the community.

The practice of gleaning, as outlined in Leviticus 19:9-10 , further illustrates this responsibility: "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." This law ensured that the marginalized had access to sustenance, reflecting God's heart for justice and provision.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to emphasize the importance of sharing, particularly through the teachings of Jesus and the early church. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs His followers in Matthew 5:42 , "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you." This teaching encourages believers to be open-handed and willing to meet the needs of others.

The early church exemplified communal sharing as described in Acts 2:44-45 : "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This practice of sharing was a tangible expression of their unity and love for one another, setting a precedent for Christian communities.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the responsibility to share in his epistles. 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." Paul emphasizes that sharing should be done willingly and joyfully, reflecting the character of God.

Practical Implications

The responsibility to share extends beyond material possessions to include time, talents, and spiritual gifts. In 1 Peter 4:10 , believers are encouraged, "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another." This directive highlights the diverse ways in which Christians can contribute to the well-being of others and the advancement of God's kingdom.

Furthermore, sharing is not limited to fellow believers but extends to all people. Galatians 6:10 instructs, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith." This broadens the scope of responsibility, encouraging Christians to be a blessing to the wider community.

Conclusion

The biblical mandate to share is a reflection of God's generosity and love. Through sharing, believers demonstrate their faith, build community, and fulfill their calling to be stewards of God's resources. The responsibility to share is an integral aspect of Christian discipleship, inviting believers to participate in God's work of redemption and restoration in the world.