How do we know charity is important for Christians?

Charity stands at the heart of Christian practice as it embodies the very essence of the Gospel. James emphasizes that pure religion includes looking after the needy, thus demonstrating that love for others is integral to our faith. In Matthew 25, Jesus speaks of acts of mercy as a reflection of one’s relationship with Him, indicating that our treatment of the afflicted is tantamount to our treatment of Christ Himself. This principle is further supported throughout Scripture, as God’s love for us compels us to extend that love to those in need, making charity a noteworthy evidence of genuine faith.