The concept of doing good is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His people. The call to do good is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate that permeates both the Old and New Testaments. This call is rooted in the nature of God, who is inherently good, and it is reflected in the lives of those who follow Him.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding the call to do good. In Micah 6:8 , the prophet succinctly summarizes what God requires: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse encapsulates the essence of doing good as an expression of justice, mercy, and humility before God.

The Psalms frequently highlight the goodness of God and the call for His people to emulate this attribute. Psalm 37:3 encourages believers to "Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness." Here, doing good is linked with trust in God and faithfulness, suggesting that righteous actions are a natural outflow of a life committed to God.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues and expands upon the call to do good, emphasizing it as a hallmark of Christian living. Jesus Christ, in His teachings and actions, exemplifies the ultimate standard of goodness. In Matthew 5:16 , Jesus instructs His followers, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Good deeds are portrayed as a testimony to God's glory, serving as a witness to the world.

The Apostle Paul reiterates this call in his epistles. In Galatians 6:9-10 , he writes, "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith." Paul emphasizes perseverance in doing good, highlighting it as a continuous effort that benefits both the community of believers and the broader world.

Theological Implications

The call to do good is deeply theological, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel. It is not merely about moral behavior but about embodying the life of Christ. Ephesians 2:10 states, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." This verse underscores that good works are a divine purpose for believers, prepared by God as an integral part of their new identity in Christ.

Practical Application

The call to do good is practical and actionable. It involves acts of kindness, justice, and mercy in everyday life. James 1:27 provides a concrete example: "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." This verse highlights the importance of social responsibility and personal holiness as expressions of doing good.

Conclusion

The call to do good is a comprehensive biblical mandate that encompasses justice, mercy, and humility. It is a reflection of God's character and a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel in the lives of believers. Through the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, the Bible provides a clear and compelling vision for a life dedicated to doing good, serving as a light to the world and bringing glory to God.