Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "The Perpetual Share" is not explicitly named in the Bible, but it can be understood through the principles of stewardship, generosity, and the communal sharing of resources as outlined in Scripture. This idea reflects the biblical mandate for believers to care for one another and to ensure that the needs of the community are met through the sharing of resources.Old Testament Foundations The Old Testament lays the groundwork for the concept of sharing and stewardship. In Leviticus 25:23, the Lord declares, "The land must not be sold permanently, because the land is Mine and you are but foreigners and sojourners with Me." This verse underscores the idea that all resources ultimately belong to God, and humans are merely stewards of His creation. The Year of Jubilee, described in Leviticus 25, further emphasizes the importance of returning property and forgiving debts, ensuring that resources are redistributed and that no one remains in perpetual poverty. The practice of gleaning, as instructed in Leviticus 19:9-10, also illustrates the principle of sharing: "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 commandment ensured that the poor and the marginalized had access to the resources they needed to survive. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, the early church exemplifies the principle of The Perpetual Share through communal living and the sharing of possessions. Acts 2:44-45 states, "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This passage highlights the early Christian community's commitment to ensuring that no member lacked necessities, reflecting the love and unity that Christ taught. The Apostle Paul also addresses the importance of generosity and sharing 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." This teaching encourages believers to give willingly and joyfully, trusting that God will provide for their needs as they provide for others. Theological Implications The Perpetual Share is rooted in the understanding that all resources are gifts from God, entrusted to humanity for the purpose of glorifying Him and serving others. This concept challenges believers to view their possessions not as personal entitlements but as opportunities to bless others and to advance God's kingdom on earth. The biblical call to generosity and stewardship is a reflection of God's own nature, as He is the ultimate provider and sustainer of all creation. The principle of The Perpetual Share also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the body of Christ. As members of one body, Christians are called to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2) and to ensure that the needs of the community are met. This communal responsibility fosters unity and reflects the love of Christ to the world. In summary, while the term "The Perpetual Share" may not be explicitly found in Scripture, its principles are deeply embedded in the biblical narrative. Through the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, believers are called to live lives of generosity, stewardship, and communal care, reflecting the heart of God in their interactions with others. |