That's a pretty big broad brush you're painting with. I would say, from my own view point and I think it is Biblically based, that those who can work, work. The Bible mentions helping widows and orphans. There are many sections in Proverbs that advise against being lazy or slothfull.
I think most people draw the line on helping someone who is quit capable of working, but won't. Not sure there is any Biblical support for that category.
Perhaps. But I don't think the phenomenon itself can be denied. Am I saying there are no Catholics who adopt this secular understanding of charity? No. Of course not. But I think charity, properly understood precludes this secular understanding. And to be quite honest I think we've seen protestantism all too quick to adopt secular ways when it has been deemed advantageous to them. Whether it is in their praise, worship or the messaging of their evangelization. So I'm not surprised to see the protestant adopt the secular understanding of charity
I think most people draw the line on helping someone who is quit capable of working, but won't.
I agree. But you see what happens here. Individual judgement is deemed the arbiter of charity.
Perhaps there is a little self-righteousness when it comes to all this charity...It is mentioned in God's word...
Mat_6:1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
Mat_23:5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
There IS plenty of biblical support for working...
2Th 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
2Th 3:11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.
2Th 3:12 Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.
If there is work to do and you're capable of working, it would be wise to get involved in that endeavor instead of standing on a street corner and begging...