Written by: Tim Glenn
I realize that what I’m about to post isn’t going to be very popular. But I’m willing to post it because I hope it will start a healthy discussion.
Here it is: Over the past few years, I’ve heard this phrase come up literally dozens of times at missions conferences, ministry events, churches, on blogs, etc. The dicussion turns to poverty and inevitably someone says “this is the generation that can end poverty.”
I don’t know if I believe that. In fact, I’m not totally sure Christians are called to end poverty. Before you go looking for handy throwing stones, allow me to explain:
First, let me say that I do believe there are enough resources in our world to take care of everyone. There’s enough food. Enough water. Enough materials for shelter and clothing. But to make sure everyone gets their fair share, it would mean an end to greed and corruption. It would mean a massive shift in human nature. I don’t think this generation, or any other, can accomplish that.
Secondly, I don’t know of any scripture that says we are called to rid the world of poverty. We are called to fight injustice. We are called to be a voice for the voiceless, look after the orphan and the widow. But I don’t know of any verse that says we are expected to rid the world of poverty.
And third, I wonder if saying that we can end poverty is contradictory to what Jesus told us:
“The poor you will always have with you…” –Mark 14:7 (NIV)
Granted, a lot of people misuse that quote. They use it as an argument against doing anything about poverty: “We’ll always have poverty, so it’s fruitless to try to fight it.” That’s not the point I’m making here. What many don’t know is that Jesus was actually quoting a passage from Deuteronomy. That original scripture goes on to tell us what we’re supposed to do about poverty:
“There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore, I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.” –Deuteronomy 15:11 (NIV)
Notice that the command is not to “end poverty” but to give. To share. And when a command is given, obedience is what’s expected. I don’t think we’re called to end poverty. I do think we’re called to be obedient to God’s command. It’s about taking care of those who are less fortunate. I think it’s about making sure that no child ever starves to death for lack of food, or dies from a preventable disease. It’s about making sure no one has to drink unsafe water. It’s about making sure everyone has a chance at life.
I think God allows poverty so that His glory may be shown … through His people doing His work … obeying that command.
My boss reminded me of the old ad campaign, McGruff the Crime Dog. Remember his famous catch-phrase? “Take a bite out of crime.” Not END crime … but take a bite out of it. I think we can take a bite out of poverty. I think we can stop some of the injustices. I’m just not sure we can end it.
Okay. Now you may grab your stones.
Popularity: 54% [?]
July 15th, 2008 at 6:07 am
No stones needed, no discussion needed from my side! I totally agree, especially with your quotes from the Bible, we have to do everything in our power to help the poor and to get rid of poverty; but Jesus promised us already that we’ll always live with the poor and I think you phrase it well when you say that His glory may be shown through it! Now it’s up to us how to respond…
Thanks for sharing! It’s good to be reminded all the time!
July 15th, 2008 at 6:58 am
I’ll pick up my stone and cover your back! However, people do get scared of hearing, “We can not end poverty,” “It is impossible!” “We’ll never erase this problem, etc.” There is the belief that others will get complacent or quit altogether (many will, they need to hear a pep talk that nothing is impossible). Many in the United States also need a “quick end date” for them to care and participate - it’s our culture unfortunately. They want to be part of a winner - and anything other than “ending” poverty is not a winner.
One individual/family/village at a time is how it’s done. I know my small donation matters to one little boy in Peru. I know one irrigation system matters to one village in Africa. One well dug matters to one family in India, etc. Put all parts of the body together, and there’s a whole lot of “mattering” in the world. We’re a fallen world, and for that we’ll always have an opportunity to help.
July 15th, 2008 at 8:46 am
Who is more poverty stricken? Poor people in undeveloped countries with few resources, or rich Americans with poverty of Spirit? We need each other — so desperately — and perhaps that is why God allows it to continue.
July 15th, 2008 at 10:31 am
Juli, your comment reminds me of something my favorite college professor said, long ago, when preaching from I John. Having driven home the point that we can’t say we love God, and hate our brother; having advised us that we can’t say we love God, when we see those in need and “close up our bowels of compassion against them”; he summed it up: “We really do need each other.” And we do; the poor need the rich to lend a helping hand, and the rich need the poor to learn…oh, gosh, so many things: Joy, in the midst of poverty; full knowledge that we are utterly dependent on God; sharing out of our little with those who have less; humility, in the face of our inadequacy; and no doubt much more that I have yet to realize.
Good post, Tim. No stones, here.
July 15th, 2008 at 10:32 am
I do have a concern with what has been said here. But don’t worry, it’s a concern I have with Compassion as a whole, to some extent. And here it is: do folks at Compassion believe in injustice that is rooted in systems, especially political and economic systems? Or does that fall into the category of the instrinsically “greedy and corrupt” nature of humanity?
For example, what does Compassion have to say about the legacy of colonial oppression and exploitation of darker people in the “south” by lighter people in the “north”, a legacy which in many ways is quite alive and well today?
And I have to say that Juli Jarvis’ comment makes me quite uneasy. It seems very close to a kind of spiritual imperialism, by which we who are materially rich can be made spiritually rich as well, by rubbing up against those who are in severe need materially. Why kill the golden spiritual goose (i.e., poverty)?
I mean no offense to anyone. I appreciate that the topic has been raised.
July 15th, 2008 at 11:03 am
Poverty is a symptom of the very broad sickness that plagues the human spirit. That sickness is called “sin.”
In God’s view, sin has been crucified with Christ on the cross. He has already put an end to sin, and therefore to poverty.
As long as people continue to reject that solution, and reject obedience to Christ’s command to sacrificially crucify our own sin natures, sin … and poverty … will continue.
Does that mean we should do nothing? Did Christ do nothing? No, He did everything He could do. He gave all He had to give.
He expects us to do the same.
July 15th, 2008 at 11:18 am
I think the phrase “the generation that ends poverty” is designed from a an ecumenical and secular marketing angle and not from scripture. The One Campaign for instance does not single out Christian groups or secular groups but all groups, all sides of politics, all sides of culture.
The 21st Century is marked by a culture of wants not a culture of needs in the west, especially the Christian West. Poverty is used as a deliberately ugly word to snap to attention a world that does anything and everything in it’s power to distance itself from the reality that 1/6th of world’s population live in severe poverty. Without a phrase that aspires to do anything, nothing else gets done.
And I don’t think McGruff the Crime Dog is exactly analogous to the plight of the 1 billion dis-enfranchised, poverty-stricken and oppressed.
As Christians we are not called to end poverty. With that I have no disagreement at all, from scripture, tradition, and even in possibility. But as Christians we have to at least pay attention. We have to use our imagination to force our morality into action. We have a moral obligation to treat the world’s poor with dignity. Phrases like “ending poverty” might be the only way to get people to consider doing the little things you ask be done.
July 15th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Some great comments everyone! I really thought I’d be dodging stones by now.
Steve, I think you make a great point. The AIDS crisis is that way, somewhat. Many Americans (or Westerners in general), have “moved on”, looking for the next thing…because they have this mentality of the fight against AIDS being futile. If we can’t end it overnight, why bother? But the AIDS pandemic continues. So many want something they can crow about…”Look how we ended this!” but AIDS, like poverty, will not go away overnight.
Yes, let’s not focus on the idea that we can’t “end” poverty…and focus on the idea that our part matters…and it’s our mandate, from God Himself, that we do something about it.
Good dialogue! Thanks guys!
July 15th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
“Poverty is a symptom of the very broad sickness that plagues the human spirit. That sickness is called ’sin’.” Does that mean that wealth is God’s blessing? Larry, you’re walking a fine line here. I agree that sin is separation from God, but I do not look at someone living in poverty and blame them for their situation. Poverty is the result of many interrelated concerns: conflict, social policies, racism, poor personal choices, lack of social mobility, lack of education, lack of resources. What is clear throughout the Bible and the New Testament: Jesus has very strong words for the wealthy. “It easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Matthew 19:24.
In response to your post, Tim, I do believe Christians are called to end poverty. God’s vision of shalom (as seen in Genesis) is a vision of right relationships with creation, each other and God. When God created the world, no one lived in hunger. It is God’s dream for humanity. Yes, we are fallen. Yes, we chose disobedience over God’s abundance, but Jesus Christ reconciles us to this vision of shalom. As we seek to live in right relationship with God through Jesus Christ, we are called to live out that hope into the world. Part of my hope in Jesus is that we will SEE and PARTICIPATE in an end to suffering, an end to injustice, an end to poverty.
Maybe it is true - we can’t end poverty once and for all in our generation: but we can end it wherever we find it IN our generation. We are not responsible for what the next generation does to screw things up again.
To say the poor will always be with us is just to say that the powerful will always be injust. This is not license for us, the powerful, to be injust — we will still reap the consequences of our sin if we do not resist it.
July 15th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
I think you’re right, Ben…but I think it’s a sad statement on the spiritual health of the Church in the West that we have to use a “marketing phrase” like “end poverty” to get people mobilized. Very sad indeed. We should want to fight poverty because God told us to. We should want to fight poverty because we believe in justice.
We are obligated, as you said, by God’s mandate to get involved in the fight against poverty.
As for the McGruff analogy, I think it does apply. Crime, somehwat like poverty, is one of the ills of this world…and affects millions. While crime is a sin…poverty is not. That’s true. But there are many sins of greed, omission, arrogance and pride that are rooted in poverty. Not on behalf of the poor necessarily, but on behalf of those who greedily take while others have not.
July 15th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Holly,
The problem I have with your analogy is that…using your argument, humanity can get back to Eden. I don’t think that’s true. Not on this earth. Not til Jesus returns.
When Jesus comes back, THAT will be the end of poverty. But in this world, I don’t believe so.
So I would have to respectfully disagree. I don’t think we’re called to “end poverty.” I don’t think we can. I do think we’re called to alleviate suffering…bring equality and justice…speak up for those who don’t have a voice. I believe we are called to be the hands, feet and yes voice of Christ to a hurting and dying world. But I don’t think God expects His people to get us “back to Eden.” Only He can do that.
July 15th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Regardless of how many times I tell my kids to turn off lights (they aren’t using), I still find myself going around and turning off lights in empty rooms.
I could just leave them on, but what would that make me?
July 15th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
I’d like to address the questions that Joel raised, because I think they’re important.
First, let me say I’m speaking for myself and NOT Compassion.
Yes…I believe there are “systems” that contribute to the societal illness that we call poverty. But systems are created. And they are created by sinful man. If investigated thoroughly enough, our political system would be found wonting in the areas of justice for the poor, minorities, children, etc.
Now…putting my Compassion hat back on again: What does Compassion say about such issues as racial exploitation and oppression? Obviously, we believe exploitation of any human being is wrong, whether it be because of skin color, social status, age, etc. And Compassion’s program is designed to show EVERY child–black, white, poor, disabled, educationally challenged (the list goes on) is a gift from God to be honored, cherished, nurtured, RESPECTED, loved and introduced to the Kingdom of God.
July 15th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
I agree, Tim, and here’s my own analogy: God placed a call on my life to be an advocate for the poor, and especially for children. He poured His passion for this ministry into my heart.
I love finding sponsors for children, but I haven’t set any records for doing so. And it took me a few years to accept the fact that, while God called me to this ministry, He didn’t call me to reap 250 sponsorships a year, or even 100. There may be a few advocates who do that, but I can’t worry about that…too much. My job is to do the task that He has called me to, to speak to every pastor or other church leader who will listen, to talk to individuals when I have the opportunity, to raise my community’s awareness of the crying need in our world and of God’s mandate that we do all we can to meet it. I can’t afford to get deeply frustrated and angry (as I used to do) when I don’t get the results I think I should get. God often needs time to work in the hearts of those people I do talk to, and that’s not my business. I have to keep taking one more step on the path He has set before me, and let Him do His work in me and/or through me.
I think that’s our call with regard to poverty: to do all we can with what we have, to keep taking steps on the path He has set us on, making as much of a difference as He and we can make, until Jesus comes again…till all have heard and the Enemy has been vanquished forever. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
July 15th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Larry,
I agree with you. We just have to be careful that we’re not leading others to believe that poverty is the result of sin on behalf of the poor.
The disciples asked Jesus, “Who sinned, that this man was born blind? Was it him…or his parents?” And Jesus said, “Neither. It’s so that God’s glory can be shown.”
Now, I agree with what you’re saying…poverty has become so rampant and tragic in this world today due to the sins of other men…mostly greed and corruption. We all know the stories of countries where food/supplies never make it to the poor because of corrupt governments.
I know you know this…but I just wanted to clarify for anyone who may misinterpret.
And, as I said in my post…it’s about obedience. Our part, in the fight against poverty, is to be obedient. To respond to His call to feed the hungry, give a cup of cold water in His name, clothe the naked, etc.
July 15th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
P.S. When I began my comment (#13) I was responding to Tim’s (#11). Tim’s #12 got in there, first!
July 15th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Fascinating discussion. I agree with everyone who said we use the term because we are very goal oriented. Instead of realizing that living a sacrifical and giving life is what we’ve been called to, we like to think we’ll be able to have this huge impact and reach a goal. We want to see tangible results for our efforts.
July 15th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Tim this is such a great thought-provoking post. I’m bringing this to my Bible study tomorrow to read and discuss. This is exactly the kind of thing we talk about.
I agree that we will never end suffering in our lifetime — in whatever form it may come — poverty, disease, war, etc. I also agree that this doesn’t exempt us from doing everything we can to care for others.
The only thing you said that I don’t agree with is this:
“I think God allows poverty so that His glory may be shown … through His people doing His work … obeying that command.”
That doesn’t sit right with me but I can’t really articulate why.
I guess I don’t feel so much that God allows it for His ultimate glory. I feel that it has more to do with the fact that He gives us free will and we, (the collective we — humanity), often make sinful choices that hurt others and prevent all from enjoying what He has provided.
Here’s an example:
I think of countries that have experienced drought & famine — and simultaneously armed conflict. Stockpiles of food have sat in warehouses, prevented from reaching those in need due to war and conflict. God gave those governments/armies/militias the free will to make the choice — to allow the food to get to the people in need or to hold it back. And where they could have been humane they chose to be cruel. So it was a human choice — a sinful choice — and people died because of it.
I don’t know…I need to think more.
July 15th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Lisa,
I agree with you. And I understand what you’re saying.
When there are obstacles in our lives that seem insurmountable…impossible to man…they are not impossible to God. And I think God allows suffering–in our personal lives–so that we may learn to rely on Him as the solution.
I believe the same with global poverty. He allows it, so that we rely on Him for the answer…whether that be through grassroots efforts by His people…or miracles we cannot explain. But all…all….for His glory.
July 15th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Tim, I was following this post most of the day and your last comment really made me angry. God ALLOWS poverty to exist? I’m sorry, but I feel that your theological understandings are very flawed. Poverty is not something that God allows, rather it is a result of systems of power and control. Your simplistic world view of an all powerful God who allows everything in the world to be good or evil is just that - too simplistic. Imagine telling someone in poverty that God is allowing them to live in poverty. This really borders on a theology of health and wealth - “If I believe in Jesus, I will have material gain”. While I agree that we need to do all in our power to alleviate poverty, I feel that your theology results in patronizing acts of charity - where the solidarity and incarnational acts of Christ never occur to the wealthy, comfortable giver. It remains a system of haves and have-nots - those who maintain their power by “giving” charity, while the poor are shamed into receiving it. May we move beyond these simplistic notions of what God allows in the world and actually see the dignity of people. The POOR are PEOPLE created by GOD. Our unjust system of power allows us to maintain our happy distance so we can continue to refer to them as poor, offer our charity, sponsor our child, without actually changing our lives and the prevailing system of GREED that we benefit from.
July 15th, 2008 at 3:51 pm
Sarah,
If God isn’t allowing poverty to exist, then why does it?
He obviously hasn’t rid the world of poverty.
I agree with you that poverty is the result of systems and control (and I would also add greed, environmental factors, etc.)…but how can you say God isn’t allowing those things to exist?
Does God not allow sin to exist in the world anymore? I think it’s obvious HE does. It’s all part of the “free will” thing.
I’m concerned though, that you make the leap from my argument…to the the assumption that I believe in “health and wealth theology.” I don’t believe I said any such thing…and I certainly don’t believe in that.
July 15th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
No one’s brought up the fact that God has many times brought suffering upon people when they are going astray. Is it cruel to say such a thing, even though there are lots of Biblical examples? But … God also allows those that are faithful to him to suffer - it builds character and can make us closer to him.
I need to go lay down now!!!
July 15th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
I believe that poverty and sin are very much related. That doesn’t mean that when someone is poor that they deserve it or that it is a direct consequence of their sin. For instance the husband who leaves his wife and commits adultery and leaves his family without a source of income can cause the whole family to spiral down into deep poverty. There was sin involved, but the ones, who bear the brunt of the sin are the children. The issue with it isn’t really who sinned.
In John 9:2, the disciples asked Jesus about a blind person: “Who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?” Jesus’ answer was: “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.”
Thus the issue is that poverty gives us a unique opportunity to be a display of God’s work.
So, we might never be able to end poverty, just like we will never be able to clean up the earth of all sin, but we can be used by God in the midst of it, which is the very thing that God tends to do all the time, to not change the circumstances, but to show His Power in the midst of circumstances.
Kees
July 15th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
Holly and Glenn:
I agree with you and didn’t mean to imply that, while poverty is a result of sin, its antithesis (wealth, if that really is the antithesis of poverty) is a sure sign of God’s blessing. Absolutely not.
Likewise, poverty itself (in the financial sense) is not a sure sign of a lack of God’s blessing. Having traveled widely in developing countries, I have met many who, contented, count themselves blessed despite their poverty.
But my point was that poverty does exist because of sin. And it remains, because sin remains. Nonetheless we must renew our commitment to “taking a bite” out of it with all that is within us.
July 15th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
The exchange between Sarah and Tim reminds me of my earliest teaching on the Will of God, and it boils down to the distinction between God’s permissive will and His perfect will. Yes, God permits all manner of ills and evils in this world, that would not have entered into our world, if Adam and Eve had not sinned.
But permitting people to sin and/or to suffer, and wanting that kind of life for His creation, are not the same thing. Yes, He could wipe out poverty by dumping a whole lot of resources on people who have none, right now. He could end sickness by healing everyone in hospitals or wherever they happen to be. He could intervene to protect every child who is about to be abused. But He doesn’t.
It’s really up to us, as individuals, when bad things happen to us or to a loved one, to seek God’s way through it; to look for a way to cooperate with Him to make “all things work together for the good of those who love Him….” That’s where His glory comes in, I believe, where we can make some meaning out of the senseless, and find comfort and joy replacing our sorrow.
July 15th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
<> Man, I’m done with this blog. I came here because there wasn’t enough country news under the “Country News” section. Yes, I read all of the crisis reports. (Didn’t know that made me a Super Sponsor.) I’m just so tired of brothers and sisters in the family of God despising each other. So I think I will heed the advice of scripture and steer clear of vain arguments.
July 15th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
When I said we need each other, I meant it in this way — she needs my financial support, prayers, encouragement, love and confirmation; I need her friendship, prayers, faith, contentment and trust. Without her, I would most likely die in greed and without a proper perspective on this world of suffering and injustice. I’m thankful Compassion has brought down the walls of poverty, so to speak, so I can see the need out there and rise up to help alleviate it. I never expected it, but I have truly benefitted just as much as she has, maybe even more. I’m not talking about “feeling better about myself;” I’m talking about true change in my inner being — less greed and selfishness; more contentment and true love and compassion.
July 15th, 2008 at 11:12 pm
Miriam,
So sorry to hear that you read it that way. I don’t know if I hear any “despising” going on…and, for what it’s worth, I think the discussion has been fairly healthy. It’s good for us to talk about these things…debate them…chew on ‘em for a little while and see where it all leads.
Steve,
True…interesting point. In fact, God HAS used famine and poverty as a curse upon the unrighteous.
“When I shall send upon them the evil arrows of famine, which shall be for their destruction, and which I will send to destroy you: and I will increase the famine upon you, and will break your staff of bread.” Ezekiel 5:16
Now, I’m not saying that global poverty is God’s punishment. I believe that global poverty exists for a number of reasons that I’ve pointed out in our comments section…and He has commanded His people to be fervent in responding to it. I don’t think He tells us to end poverty. I DO think He tells us to be obedient and follow the mandate He has given us to care for the poor.
Good point.
July 16th, 2008 at 12:33 am
I think debate and discussion are healthy. I hope people don’t leave the blog or shy away from kicking around ideas together. (Please Miriam, don’t leave!) I have so much to learn and everyone here has a unique viewpoint that makes me think…
As for God allowing suffering & Biblical precedent — Job would be an example. God allowed Satan to tempt Job — and Satan tempted him until God said, “no more.”
Satan took away Job’s wealth, his health, his children, etc. Yet Job stayed faithful and refused to curse God. And I think that’s the lesson in Job.
I’m not going to draw any conclusions as to how Job relates to those who suffer from poverty in today’s world — but Job is certainly a good book to read to learn about a man who had nothing left to cling to but God.
July 16th, 2008 at 1:50 am
well said, Lisa
July 16th, 2008 at 8:20 am
“I think you’re right, Ben…but I think it’s a sad statement on the spiritual health of the Church in the West that we have to use a “marketing phrase” like “end poverty” to get people mobilized.”
No, Tim, it isn’t something you have to do, it’s something Compassion chooses to do. Frankly, I wish Wes would heed his own advice when it comes to his American marketing.
But then, for having a similar background, Wes and I could find lots to argue about. But they also would be vain arguments and only bring disunity, so I don’t argue. I have better things to do.
July 16th, 2008 at 8:21 am
Vicki and Kees,
Perhaps you guys should’ve written this post! Excellent points in both of your comments…and perhaps you’ve said it much clearer than I did.
This has been a good discussion guys. Maybe we should just post the question on this blog: Why does poverty exist? And start a dialogue. Could be very interesting.
July 16th, 2008 at 8:30 am
Wow,
I felt like I was reading a dialogue from a UN convention. So many view points. So many valid arguments.
Personally, I completely agree with Mr. Glen. Like you said early on, the Lord allows poverty so that His grace and power may be displayed though those who suffer, first for His glory, then for their comfort, and then for our conviction.
It says in Romans 1:20 that “God’s attributes, His invisible qualitites, namely his divine nature and eternal power have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So that they are without excuse.”
Do I believe that we are to live openhanded and be good stweards with our personal resources? Absolutely. But I don’t worry about those who are in poverty. The fact of the matter is this: God knows their situation and circumstance better than we do, and He is in complete control of their future, whether it be short or long.
Does He wish that any should perish? No! So He has provided for them, through the beauty of His creation, a testiment to who He is. Americans are scared to be so desperate, deprived, and desolate. But I think that it is in this place that God’s glory is most clearly revealed and the most genuine and passionate need for Him is born.
Materialism and possessions often obscure our vision of God because we don’t think we need Him. They know that they need Him and so they are blessed in Spirit.
I’m not worried about them. They are in the grip of grace.
July 16th, 2008 at 10:23 am
“They are in the grip of grace.”
Man I like that.
I wish I had come up with that.
Nicely done, Meredith.
July 16th, 2008 at 10:26 am
Miriam said, “No, Tim, it isn’t something you have to do, it’s something Compassion chooses to do. Frankly, I wish Wes would heed his own advice when it comes to his American marketing.”
Miriam,
I was simply responding to Ben’s insinuation that the phrase, “the generation that will end poverty” is a secular marketing phrase/angle.
Not sure what you mean by “Wes(s) heading his own advice. Could you expound on that?”
July 16th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
Tim, thanks for your comment to Kees and me. Truth is, you did a great job of writing that post. Look how much thought and discussion you provoked! I’ve loved reading and participating in it, as I have thought the discussion healthy and friendly. In fact, many of us have said basically the same things, just in our own words with perhaps a slightly different slant.
So…what do you write about for an encore? :o)
July 16th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
In case you want to pursue a different but similar idea, this question is now seeking answers.
Why Does Poverty Exist?
July 16th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
I agree that “ending poverty” is a secular marketing tool to help motivate people to be generous toward the poor. That marketing tool works because of our culture’s obsession with measurable goals and instant gratification. If the call to “end poverty” motivates people to be more generous, selfless and compassionate, I think it’s a positive thing.
I have no problem with supporting and teaming up with unbelievers who wish to help the poor. I think that learning to be compassionate and generous will bring them closer to God, maybe soften their heart so that they can hear Him more easily. Churches that invite non-Christians to join them in their volunteer work often see the unbelievers become seekers and seekers become Christians when they start working side-by-side with Christians who lovingly dispense God’s grace in its various forms.
The worry I have is that when poverty hasn’t been conquered by 2015, that people will lose heart, lose interest, and become disillusioned. That’s why, as Christians, we need to remember that the road to ending poverty can’t be measured in months and years. We won’t reach the destination until Jesus returns. But that doesn’t mean we can just hang out on the side of the road, waiting for Jesus to show up and fix it all. We have to keep moving forward, working as Christ’s hands and feet as He continues his redeeming work in this world.
July 16th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
It’s good to read a healthy conversation is taking place on this subject. I may disagree with you theologically, but it’s cool to see the conversation happening. I was thinking more about this last night and I don’t say this to provoke people, but I do think we can end EXTREME poverty. There is a big distinction there. 1 billion people live on less than $1 a day. I think this is what most people mean when they say we can end poverty. China is a good example. A few years ago, many rural poor were making less than $1 a day. With development efforts, many saw their income dramatically increase. This article is a bit unrelated, but I find it encouraging: http://blog.google.org/2008/07/technology-leaps-in-africa.html
Thanks for the conversation.
July 16th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Holly…
I am SO GLAD you posted that!
Yes…I think you’re absolutely right. I think we CAN END “extreme” poverty. We can change the world to make sure no one is living on less than a dollar a day. Not overnight, but it CAN be done.
Perhaps that’s where international efforts should be focused?…shifting global economies to provide more equality. But then again, they’d have to be willing to change that whole “system of greed, etc.”
Interesting.
July 16th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Vicki,
You’re welcome. It was well-deserved.
I don’t get to write for the blog as often as I do. Right now, I’m at a conference in Chicago, so I keep checking in between sessions, etc…to keep up with comments.
I do have another blog post that’s going to come out, I think tomorrow…MUCH DIFFERENT type of post…a story about a miracle.
July 16th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
sorry…meant to say “I don’t get to write for the blog as often as I’d like to…”
July 17th, 2008 at 6:18 am
If then it has been confirmed that we cannot completely rid the world of poverty, our goal could be to eliminate poverty for all but one.
July 17th, 2008 at 9:07 am
Well, if you look back at the very first line of this blog post, I said I was hoping to start a healthy discussion.
I would say we’ve done just that!
It’s been fun, educational and invigorating. Whaddya wanna talk about now?
:?)
July 17th, 2008 at 10:34 am
I read this post and the comments last night, took some time to think, and here’s what I came up with:
Have you ever heard of a guy named Rob Bell? During a talk he gave a few years ago, he used an illustration about a marker. If we look at a marker from a 2 deminsional point of view, from the side, it kinda looks like a rectangle. But if we look at it from the top, it looks like a circle. So, is the marker a rectangle, or a circle? From one’s limited point of view, it’s either one or the other. But in all truth, the answer to the question, is it a circle, or a rectangle is… YEP.
I think the poverty question has the same answer. Can we end poverty, or is it impossible for us to end poverty? The answer is YEP. There are a few examples from scripture where there were NO needy people among the community of believers, because they shared everything.
Acts 4:32-35: “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. THERE WERE NO NEEDY PERSONS AMONG THEM. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.”
This tells me that poverty can be ended in a community where all are working for that same goal, and are following Jesus’ example.
However, the bible does clearly say that “you will always have the poor among you…” so, this tells me that we are merely humans and we cannot single-handedly meet the needs of every human on the planet. That’s where people get frustrated, when they find out that as hard as they may work, day and night, to end poverty, one human being, or even a whole group of human beings cannot save the world. There would have to be a supernatural savior to be able to do that. OH, wait! There is! His name is Jesus, the perfect human being, yet still God. Only God can save the world, can end poverty. Our job is to join Him.
July 17th, 2008 at 11:43 am
“It’s been fun, educational and invigorating. Whaddya wanna talk about now?”
Putting an end to selfishness…How does a Christian accomplish that?
July 18th, 2008 at 12:33 am
I just found this discussion and have enjoyed reading all of the comments. I have a comment that kinda tags on to the last topic.
There is a story that I have heard a few times that motivates me that whether poverty can be eradicated or not, every “bite” counts.
A man was walking along the beach and saw hundreds of starfish lying all over the sand. He saw a young boy was walking along throwing the starfish back into the ocean one at a time. The man called out to him, “why are you doing that? It won’t make a difference!” The little boy threw one more starfish into the ocean and said, “it made a difference for that one”
I think that we are called to do what we can were we are. Making a difference for that one child, that one family.
July 18th, 2008 at 11:52 am
[...] at the Compassion International blog there’s a lengthy discussion (see comments) on “Why We Can’t End Poverty.” The author of the post provokes thought when he says, ” I don’t think we’re called [...]
July 20th, 2008 at 6:11 pm
[...] 21 07 2008 I’ve always thought eradication should be the goal. But after reading this post, it got me [...]
July 25th, 2008 at 4:52 am
yes… i completely agree with u that we can never end poverty… but v can always make an initiative… may be this initiative can help poor to fulfill atleast their basic necessity… this initiative will atleast b an eye openers for greedy n make them aware of things going around them…n if we all come together n work towards it then m sure it will make a difference …think abt it
I am voluntarily working with the United Nations on its Millennium Development Goals serving a cause end poverty 2015.
i m making an initiative n mark my words it will make a difference
July 26th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
It is great to read all of these comments. I guess I will also throw in my two cents (but no stones.. ha ha) I agree with the opinion that we can’t end poverty. Actually, I believe we are just seeing the beginning of much worst times to come. I only say this because the scriptures describe a world that continues to decay before Christ returns. However, I agree that we should all be responding to His call to serve the poor and fight against injustice. When we face our Lord Jesus Christ, his very words will be regarding what we did for the least of these. Christ came to serve. In order to follow Him, we must too serve.
August 14th, 2008 at 6:05 am
I was the first to respond to this text and now a few weeks later I’m again drawn to it and I have to respond again!
I’m writing an introduction for our internal newsletter and am talking about what WE can do - that it starts with ourselves. We always think the grass is greener at the other side of the fence. Even though I’m not materialistic AT ALL - I also have my weaknesses in this. I know that. I don’t want to point any fingers, but I DO want to challenge people. I’m going to use a small part of this blog too… to challenge them on that! Thanks again for sharing!
Wendy
August 20th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
Poverty can’t be ended plain and simple but it CAN be alleviated and extreme poverty can probably be fixed. Poverty comes in many shapes and forms,depending on the country and people and has many factors to it. Many things lead to poverty-war,famine,disease,poor family planning,alcolism,drug abuse,mental illness,laziness,and the list could go on and on.
To actually end poverty you would have to end all of the above. I grew up incredibly poor,caused by my fathers mental illness and unwillingness and inability to work at times caused by untreated mental illness. I’ve lived in wherehouses,cars,in hotel rooms,on the kindness of strangers-all as a small child.
I realize I wasn’t extremely poor like most of the Compassion children but I was pretty poor by American standards.Just thought I should add something more personal to this whole discussion!!
September 18th, 2008 at 5:10 am
This is a very interesting topic,can we really end poverty?i do not think is possiable,until the word accept the truth and believed i the loved of christ,must people are born into poverty and live with poverty,and they are use to poverty,am taking as Africa Nigeria while the rich make friend with the rich and poor make friends with the poor,you will need to understood that the poor people have poor friends while the rich have rich friends,is a very funny world we are liveing.
It is only God with the direction of the holy spirit that w<e be able to saved the Poor.
September 25th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
MY BELIEF IS THAT I KNOW GOD EXISTS. I KNOW HEAVEN EXISTS AND I THANK GOD EVERY MINUTE OF MY LIFE FOR THAT BELIEF.I BELIEVE THAT HE WANTS US TO MAKE THIS THING CALLED LIFE WORK BUT IT”S GOING TO TAKE ALL OF US DOING IT TOGETHER AND MAYBE HE KNOW’S THAT’S OUR WEAKNESS SO I WONDER SOMETIMES IF WE CONTINUE TO FAIL AS IN USA 2008 ECONOMY(MANY OF MY FAMILY RECENTLY LAYED OFF INCLUDING MYSELF AND MY WIFE).NOT FOR ME AND MY WIFE BUT FOR MY GRANDKIDS IF OUR HUMAN INSTALLED SYSTEMS CONTINUE TO FAIL ATLEAST I KNOW THE SYSTEMS JESUS WILL INSTALL WILL WORK. AND FOLKS HE DOES EXIST AND MAYBE NOT IN MY LIFETIME BUT HE IS COMING BACK.