HOW TO BE A COMPASSIONATE CHRISTIAN WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF LAW?



1. Understanding the Anti-Mendicancy Law (PD 1563)

  • Purpose: The law prohibits begging or soliciting in public places to prevent exploitation, organized syndicates, child abuse, and dependency.

  • Coverage: It not only penalizes beggars but also those who exploit or encourage street begging.

  • Intent: The government aims to protect the dignity of the poor and direct them to proper social services instead of letting them rely on unsafe, degrading means.

2. Biblical Command – “Do not withhold good…” (Proverbs 3:27, Matthew 5:42)

  • Jesus' teachings (e.g., Matthew 25:35-40) call us to respond to the needs of the poor as if we were doing it to Him.

  • Christians are urged to live generously, help the poor, and not close their hearts to those in need (1 John 3:17).

  • However, biblical giving is also wise giving (Proverbs 19:17, James 1:5). Jesus fed crowds but also told the rich young man to give to the poor with intention and transformation.

 3. Reconciling Both: Biblical Compassion Within Legal Boundaries

Here’s how a Christian can respond:

✅ 1. Support Through Responsible Channels

  • Instead of giving directly to street beggars (which may be illegal and possibly harmful), give to legitimate ministries, shelters, or feeding programs that care for the poor.

  • You still obey the Bible’s command to give—just through a safer and more structured method.

✅ 2. Act Justly and Wisely

  • If you encounter someone in need, you can offer to buy them food or direct them to local services or a church outreach—this is not against the law and still shows love.

  • Consider keeping care packs (with snacks, water, a Gospel tract, and directions to a shelter) to hand out instead of money.

✅ 3. Advocate and Serve

  • Go beyond one-time giving. Join or support missions that rescue, train, or rehabilitate the poor.

  • As Christians, we are also called to seek justice (Micah 6:8), which includes long-term solutions, not just short-term relief.


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Final Thought

Obeying God and respecting the law are not at odds when we apply wisdom and love. You can avoid violating the Anti-Mendicancy Law while still living generously by:

“Helping the poor without enabling exploitation, and giving through loving, legal, and lasting ways.”

Be Blessed Beyond Measure!

Chris N. Braza 

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