Alms and Righteousness: Redeeming Possessions in the Eyes of God

The early Christian perspective on wealth and possessions was nuanced, balancing the realities of worldly goods with the call to spiritual righteousness. While not advocating for complete renunciation, the emphasis was on using resources in a way that reflected faith and served a higher purpose. One significant aspect of this was the concept of almsgiving, not merely as charity, but as a means of "redeeming" property and demonstrating righteousness.

The Paradox of Possessions

The text presents an interesting paradox: property, though seemingly "not belonging to him," can be used to demonstrate righteousness. This stems from the belief that God has provided material goods, even if they are obtained "from others," or even through means acquired before conversion. The question becomes, how does one utilize these resources in a manner that aligns with God's will?

"For he will be found carrying about property not belonging to him, and coveting goods which are not his. And therefore has the Lord said: 'Judge not, that ye be not judged: for with what judgment ye shall judge, ye shall be judged.'" (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

This passage cautions against condemning others for possessing wealth, as the focus should be on how those possessions are used.

Almsgiving as Redemption

Almsgiving is presented as a way to redeem possessions, transforming them from mere material wealth into instruments of righteousness. This isn't simply about giving away excess; it's about actively using resources to benefit others, reflecting God's generosity and compassion.

• Sharing with the needy: > "He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise." (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)
• Providing for those in need: > "For I was an hungered, and ye gave Me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave Me drink; I was naked and ye clothed Me." (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)
• Practicing generosity without seeking recognition: > "When thou doest thine alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth." (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

By engaging in these acts of service, believers demonstrate their righteousness and, in a sense, "redeem" their possessions from being solely associated with worldly gain.

Building God's Tabernacle

The text uses the metaphor of building God's tabernacle to illustrate how possessions can be used for spiritual purposes. Just as the Israelites used materials from the Egyptians to construct the tabernacle, believers can use resources acquired, even from unrighteous sources, to further God's work.

"For whatsoever we acquired from unrighteousness when we were heathen, we are proved righteous, when we have become believers, by applying it to the Lord's advantage." (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

This suggests that the origin of wealth is less important than its ultimate use. By dedicating resources to God's purposes, believers create a dwelling place for God within themselves and contribute to the advancement of His kingdom.

Conclusion

The early Christian perspective on wealth emphasized responsible stewardship and the transformation of possessions into tools for righteousness. Almsgiving, practiced with generosity and humility, was seen as a means of redeeming property and demonstrating faith. By dedicating resources to serving others and furthering God's work, believers could build a spiritual "tabernacle" within themselves and contribute to the greater good. This perspective encourages a thoughtful and ethical approach to wealth, prioritizing spiritual values over material accumulation.