Can You Help the Poor While Being Poor? Question 22.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, poses a provocative question:

“Is it possible to help the poor, clothe the naked, and feed the hungry while being poor?”

He asserts that poverty prevents Christians from fulfilling the basic requirements of Christ, claiming that financial abundance is essential for living out biblical commands. Quoting Proverbs 28:27, Psalm 41:1-3, and Luke 6:38, Shuttlesworth concludes that the Bible mandates financial prosperity as a prerequisite for faithful obedience.

This blog critically examines Shuttlesworth’s claims in light of Scripture, theological principles, and sound hermeneutics.

1. Examining Shuttlesworth’s Claims

Claim 1: “The Bible Requires You to Have Abundance to Do What Jesus Called You to Do”

Shuttlesworth argues that financial abundance is necessary to fulfill Christ’s commands to help the poor and needy.

Biblical Context

1. Jesus’ Teaching on Generosity:

   • Mark 12:41-44: The widow who gave two small coins is praised for her faith and generosity, even though she gave out of her poverty. Jesus highlights her giving as greater than that of the wealthy.

   • Luke 9:3: When Jesus sent out the disciples, He instructed them to rely on God’s provision rather than material resources, demonstrating that faith, not financial abundance, is the foundation of ministry.

     
     

2. Paul’s Example:

   • 2 Corinthians 8:1-2: “In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.”The Macedonian churches, though poor, were commended for their generosity, showing that poverty does not preclude faithful giving and service.

     
     

Critical Analysis

Shuttlesworth’s claim misrepresents Scripture by equating financial abundance with the ability to serve Christ. The Bible consistently teaches that faithfulness, not wealth, enables believers to fulfill God’s commands.

Claim 2: “You Can’t Help the Poor While Being Poor”

Shuttlesworth implies that poverty disqualifies Christians from helping others.

Biblical Context

1. Generosity in Poverty:

   • Luke 6:20: Jesus declares, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God,” emphasizing that poverty does not hinder spiritual blessing or faithful service.

   • Acts 3:6: Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” The apostles ministered powerfully without financial wealth.

     
     

2. Faith and Provision:

   • Philippians 4:19: Paul assures believers, “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” God’s provision enables believers to serve, regardless of their financial status.

     
     

Critical Analysis

Shuttlesworth’s argument overlooks the biblical emphasis on faith, generosity, and reliance on God. Scripture repeatedly affirms that even those with limited resources can serve others and glorify God.

Claim 3: “The Basic Requirements of Christ Cause You to Rise Out of Poverty Into Abundance”

Shuttlesworth suggests that obedience to Christ’s commands guarantees financial prosperity.

Biblical Context

1. Warnings About Wealth:

   • Matthew 6:19-21: Jesus warns against storing up earthly treasures, urging believers to prioritize eternal rewards.

   • 1 Timothy 6:9-10: Paul warns that the desire for wealth leads to temptation and spiritual ruin.

     
     

2. Faithfulness Over Prosperity: Matthew 25:21: In the Parable of the Talents, the faithful servant is commended for using what he was given, not for accumulating wealth.

   
   

Critical Analysis

Shuttlesworth’s claim distorts the gospel by promoting a transactional view of faith, suggesting that obedience guarantees financial gain. This contradicts the New Testament’s focus on spiritual growth, faithfulness, and eternal rewards.

2. Theological and Hermeneutical Analysis of Shuttlesworth’s Use of Scripture

Proverbs 28:27 and Psalm 41:1-3

1. Proverbs 28:27: “Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.”This verse emphasizes the importance of generosity but does not promise wealth as a reward. It reflects a general principle of provision, not a guarantee of financial abundance.

   
   

2. Psalm 41:1-3: “Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble.”This psalm highlights God’s faithfulness to those who care for others, but its focus is on spiritual blessing and deliverance, not material wealth.

   
   

Luke 6:38

• The Text:

  • “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”This verse emphasizes generosity and the blessings of a giving heart, but its context focuses on spiritual rewards and relational harmony, not financial gain.

    
    

Critical Evaluation

Shuttlesworth’s interpretation of these passages selectively emphasizes financial prosperity while ignoring their broader spiritual and relational context.

3. Addressing Shuttlesworth’s Implications

Implication: Poverty Equals Disobedience

Shuttlesworth’s argument implies that poverty results from a lack of obedience, creating unnecessary guilt and doubt among faithful Christians who live with limited resources.

Biblical Response

• Job’s Example: Job was a righteous man who experienced profound loss and poverty, demonstrating that material circumstances are not always tied to obedience.

• Jesus’ Life: Jesus lived a life of humility and simplicity, focusing on eternal purposes rather than material gain.

  
  

Implication: Prosperity Theology as the True Gospel

Shuttlesworth’s promotion of financial prosperity risks distorting the gospel’s message of grace, sacrifice, and eternal hope.

Biblical Warning

• Galatians 1:6-7: Paul warns against any gospel that deviates from the message of Christ, emphasizing that the true gospel is centered on salvation through faith, not material wealth.

  
  

4. The True Gospel: Faithfulness and Generosity

Generosity in All Circumstances

• 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

  
  

Trust in God’s Provision

• Matthew 6:33: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

  
  

Eternal Perspective

• Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

  
  

Conclusion: Can You Help the Poor While Being Poor?

Shuttlesworth’s argument that financial abundance is necessary to fulfill Christ’s commands misrepresents the biblical teaching on generosity and stewardship. The Bible consistently teaches that faithfulness, love, and reliance on God—not material wealth—enable believers to serve others and glorify God.

True prosperity is found in a life rooted in Christ, characterized by sacrificial giving and an eternal perspective. The gospel calls believers to trust in God’s provision and steward their resources, regardless of their financial circumstances, for the advancement of His Kingdom.

Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨

(PhD Student)