Serving others is at the heart of Christian faith. In a world where millions still live below the poverty line, this calling matters more than ever.
Charity isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are as Christians. Following Jesus’ example, we’re called to serve others with kindness and compassion, reflecting God’s love through acts of generosity and justice. It’s about recognising the dignity and worth of every person made in God’s image and living out that truth in our daily lives.
The bible's call for action
The bible commands Christians to care for the poor and vulnerable. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a key part of Christian life.
Proverbs 19:17 (NRSV) says: 'Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord and will be repaid in full.'
Jesus also showed what true service looks like.
Matthew 20:28 (NRSV) says: 'Just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many.'
Curious about what else the Bible says on topics like poverty, injustice and compassion? Visit our Bible verse hub to discover powerful scriptures that inspire action and change.
Why poverty should matter to Christians
Poverty isn't just a problem to be solved—it’s a spiritual issue that speaks to our deepest values as followers of Christ. The Bible repeatedly calls God’s people to care for the poor, to lift up the oppressed and to build a fairer world. When we ignore poverty, we ignore God’s heart for justice.
In Matthew 25:40 (NRSV), Jesus says: 'Just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.' This verse reminds us that when we feed the hungry, welcome the stranger or clothe the poor, we're serving Christ himself.
Our faith should stir us to act, not out of guilt, but out of love. Poverty isn't a distant issue; it’s here in our local communities and across the globe. As follows of Christ, we’re not called to look away, but to confront it head-on. Poverty shouldn’t just concern us—it should drive us to take action now.
Today, the need is urgent. The number of people living in beneath the poverty line continues to rise. Millions are facing hunger, displacement and the rising cost of living. Many are caught in cycles of poverty made worse by conflict, climate change and inequality. In the face of so much suffering, Christians are called to step in with hope, compassion and courage. We cannot separate our spiritual lives from the suffering we see around us.
Sunday services are not the end of our calling—they're just the beginning. Worship should send us out with renewed purpose to serve others and challenge injustice wherever we find it. As people of faith, we have opportunities to build communities that reflect God’s kingdom on earth. Poverty is a challenge to our values and a test of our commitment. When we act together as the church, we show that another world is possible—a world where all are valued and no one is left behind.
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How you can help
As Christians, we're invited to respond to God’s call to serve. Our actions can help tackle the causes of poverty, injustice and conflict, and can support people who are struggling around the world. Whether through prayer, giving or fundraising, every action creates lasting change.
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- Take on a sponsored challenge – Walk, run or cycle to raise money for people living below the poverty line. You could even encourage your church, family or friends to join you in taking on the 70k in May challenge, marking Christian Aid’s 80 years of tackling injustice.
- Host a fundraising event – Bring your church together for a good cause. Organise a bake sale, quiz night or coffee morning to support Christian Aid’s life-changing work.
- Give a regular donation – A monthly gift helps Christian Aid respond to urgent needs and build long-term solutions. Your church could set up a regular giving programme to make a lasting impact.
- Pray for our work – Lift up communities in crisis through prayer. Include Christian Aid in your personal prayers or hold a special prayer gathering to support our mission. You could also include Christian Aid in your Sunday services to inspire more people to take action.
- Buy a Charity Gift - Looking for a meaningful present? Our charity gifts help provide clean water, seeds for farmers and school supplies for children. It's a great way to show Christ’s love during birthdays, Christmas or Easter.
- Set up an online collection - If you're planning a church collection, you can now do it online. Set up a digital envelope to make giving easy and accessible for everyone.
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Put your faith into action today
At Christian Aid, we believe a fairer world is possible – and you’re part of making it happen. When we allow ourselves to be lead by mercy, act justly and walk humbly, we become part of God’s work to bring about a world of fairness, dignity and hope.
Now is the time to act. The number of people living in poverty is too great to ignore. There are real lives at stake—real families, real futures. Don't wait for someone else to step in. Be the difference. Be the light. Be the hands and feet of Christ in a world that desperately needs hope.
Hosting a collection with friends, family or your church community? Go digital by setting up an online envelope, making it easier for everyone to give and share hope.
