The Hebrews were the first tribe to put a supreme premium on industry; they were the first people to decree that “he who does not work shall not eat. [1] Jews believed almsgiving was meritorious. [2] The wealthy Pharisees were devoted to almsgiving, and they did not shun publicity regarding their philanthropy. [3]
Jesus taught apostles to turn away social parasites or professional alms-seekers. [4] A prayer that Jesus taught the apostles said that our charity may enfold the weak of the realm. [5]
But Jesus said that charity must be anonymous. Jesus always insisted that true goodness must be unconscious, in bestowing charity not allowing the left hand to know what the right hand does. [6] Giving charity is a minor duty, but we should not have left these weightier requirements undone. [7] Jesus said: Contentment is the greatest wealth. What is given wisely is well saved. [8]
Mercy ministry is always the work of the individual, but justice punishment is the function of the social, governmental, or universe administrative groups. [9]
In modern times the improvident depend on the state, thrifty taxpayers, to take care of them. Those who have no capital still expect those who have to feed them. [10]
Jesus did not teach nor countenance improvidence, idleness, indifference to providing the physical necessities for one’s family, or dependence upon alms. [11] Jesus talked with a Roman senator about the idea of the government supporting and feeding the people to that of the people supporting the government. [12] Even private charity becomes pernicious when long extended to able-bodied citizens. [13]
Poverty and dependence can never be eliminated if the defective and degenerate stocks are freely supported and permitted to reproduce without restraint. [14] In a neighbor planet they are replacing self-respect destroying charity by dignified pensions. [15]
Modern peoples revel in the lavish distribution of Christmas gifts, while rich men endow great institutions of philanthropy and learning to feel as distinguished and great men. [16]