At my old church, the preacher would give small amounts of money to folks that dropped by and figured it was their business on what they were going to spend it on. Later on the Deacons got a variety of gift cards for the local food joints and some bus passes as a way to help out. He would still give out small amounts of cash though.
However, for larger amounts it went through the Deacons. Often a call was for $200 to help pay the utilities. The Deacons would request the utility billing information so they could pay the $200 directly. (Never heard back from). Same with rent, etc. There is now a system in place between the various churches to check on the scammers that make the rounds, often using aliases, calling the various churches.
Of course this does go against the verse you quoted. However, it also helps to keep the limited funds of the church going to folks who need help and that aren’t scammers.
Of course this does go against the verse you quoted. However, it also helps to keep the limited funds of the church going to folks who need help and that aren’t scammers.
Good points. IMHO the practice of your church is NOT going against Jesus' command. Our Lord did not ask us to give EVERYTHING to ANYBODY. We are to use wisdom and good judgment - as your church did in paying utility bills directly. But no one is excused from the command to help those in need.
I don't see that, they would pay the rent or the utility bill but the guy asking wasn't being truthful. Had a Pastor who met needs, guy wanted money because he was hungry, Pastor told him to go to a restaraunt in town and he would arrange for a hot roast beef sandwich meal. When the guy said he didn't like roast beef, the Pastor told him he wasn't hungry enough.