There was once a view within Christians that we are suppose to only do benevolent work to those within the church only... our early Christians here in Malaysia studied the Bible and found this verse:
Gal 6:10 - Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
This means that we should and we ought to, since it is a command in the Bible...
Actually, there was a time in Acts 6:1-7 where they actually appointed 7 able men to do this because the apostles said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables." (vs. 2) Some people have the opinion that these 7 were deacons, but I shall hold my peace on this one...
Another thing we should note is that as we try to help others, it is important to remember that we do it to God's glory, which means in the end, whoever we're helping, if they are outside the church, we should take him in and try to preach to him... after all, that's what's most important!!!
There will be people who come in every now and then to "ask" for help and take advantage of us... I've heard of several occasions like that in Klang... So, just be careful!
