"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."
Christians are to do good to all people; but first and foremost to their fellow-churchmen. This makes sense: the family of God must look out for each other first, before anyone else. Why? Partly because our clos-
est heart-contacts are those natural family members who are also in the covenant of the (universal, yet particular) church. After them, our next closest "kin" is the rest of the church. From there, we are to care for people in their right order: other (unbelieving) family members, neighbors, co-workers, et. al.
As we follow this God-ordained pattern, we find our resources of time, talent, and treasure used in ways that please Christ, and for-
ward His kingdom (of His church).
[Puritan quote of the day: "When men are godly, their parts [natural abilities] are not debased by their godliness but raised." --Jeremiah Burroughs, in, "The Excellency of a Gracious Spirit"]
