“What is a miser? One who is not content with what is needful. What is a thief? One who takes what belongs to others. Why do you not consider yourself a miser and a thief when you claim as your own what you received in trust [from God]? If one who takes the clothing off another is called a thief, why give any other name to the one who can clothe the naked and refuses to do so? The bread that you withhold belongs to the poor; the cape that you hide in your chest belongs to the naked; the shoes rotting in your house belong to those who must go unshod.”
Basil the Great (3rd century bishop), quoted in Justo L. Gonzalez, Faith & Wealth: A History of Early Christian Ideas on the Origin, Significance, and Use of Money. San Francisco: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1990, page 178.
Related posts:
Pastor Note #72 — Dealing With the Dangers of Money
Bible Note #52: James 2:5-7 & the Problem of Wealth
Pastor Note #137: Other People’s Sins & Reading the Bible
Bible Note #51: James 2:1-4 & Valuing What Jesus Values
Bible Note #23: Blessing without Regard to Deserving & the Gracious Heart of God
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