Do We Need to Open Our Mouth

I have heard many a preacher say, from either the pulpit, radio this quote from Francis of Assis "Preach the Gospel as much as possible, and when necessary use words". This has been used so many times to justify the great emphasis of social programs of all types in our churches. There is a more modern version of this philosophy or approach to outreaches aka evangelism, "People have heard enough messages, they want to see a message". While this may have it's place since in the book of James it saids, "²⁰ But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?" (James 2:20 KJV)

In the context and content of the Scriptures it is a mandate that we who proclaim to be Christians should tend to the needs of the poor.  "Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their misfortune and to keep oneself unstained by the world." (James 1:27 NET)

These manifestations to tend to the needs of humanity are from an inward conviction that comes from God. But, to only to attend to the outwards needs and not address the inward need of the unsaved. We have not completed the the command of the Lord, we must speak the message of the Gospel of Christ.

¹³ For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.¹⁴ How are they to call on one they have not believed in? And how are they to believe in one they have not heard of? And how are they to hear without someone preaching to them? ¹⁵ And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How timely is the arrival of those who proclaim the good news.” ¹⁶ But not all have obeyed the good news, for Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” ¹⁷ Consequently faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the preached word of Christ. (Romans 10:13-17 NET)

If all we do is give someone a bowl of food and say, "Jesus loves you". Is this enough? Have we fully presented the Gospel of Christ?