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This episode of the New Discourses Podcast is available early for supporters. It will be released publicly Monday, July 17, 2023 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZW2tkK52U-o

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It is correct that Jesus explicitly stated that the poor will always be with us. (Speaking of this fallen world.) The context was the disciples complaining at the woman who anointed Jesus with expensive perfume. They complained that this money could have been used to help the poor. In another passage, though I can't remember if it was referring to this particular incident, it's clarified that Judas was in charge of the moneybag and was stealing from it. His concern was not for the poor. (John 12:1-7)

Jesus responded:

Matthew 26

10 But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a beautiful thing to me. 11 For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. 12 In pouring this ointment on my body, she has done it to prepare me for burial. 13 Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”

Of course the Bible speaks to generosity and helping the poor. But to eliminate poverty/hunger completely is not a possible thing - again, in this broken, fallen world. The only way to attempt this would involve "reducing the population" (Newspeak for murder) and stealing from some to give to others. Murder and stealing are both sinful acts prohibited in Scripture.

I hope this continued march toward destruction will show people that the biblical worldview best corresponds to reality.

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