As Christians, we are challenged to love our neighbour in very practical ways. Our neighbours include those in most need in the poorest countries of the world. We can work together with them to help transform their communities. By working with other churches to do this, we demonstrate to our own community that Christians are called to bring good news to the poor. But our neighbours also include people living down our street and in our community who need our help.

‘[God] upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry.’ (Psalm 146:7)

Read Matthew 4:23, 9:35 and Acts 10:38.

In what ways did Jesus show a concern for physical as well as spiritual needs?

Read Matthew 25:31-46.

What does the King challenge us to do in our lives here on earth to help our neighbours? What does the King mean when he says, ‘whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me’? (v40)

So the simple question for us to discuss as Christians and as North Springfield Baptist Church is this.

“WHO IS MY NEIGHBOUR?”

1. What kinds of needs are experienced by people in our community and our town?

2. Which of these needs should be our priority? Which neighbours is God calling us to help?

3. What forms of practical help could we be giving to these folk as individual Christians?

4. What forms of social action might we be being called to as a church to help our neighbours?