King James Bible
"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."
Paul urges believers to act whenever circumstances allow, emphasizing that doing good requires both readiness and timing. The word 'therefore' connects to his previous teaching about reaping what we sow, making benevolence a practical response to spiritual principles. Christian charity extends universally without discrimination, reflecting God's love for all humanity. This command challenges the early church to transcend ethnic and social boundaries that typically limited ancient philanthropic practices. While maintaining universal love, Paul prioritizes fellow believers as spiritual family deserving special care. This reflects the early church's mutual support system, where members shared resources to ensure no Christian suffered needlessly.