Tithing

[Droobie]

Some say tithing is just for the old testament. Some say tithing applies today too. Why shouldn't we tithe? Why should we tithe?

[closer]

Let's look at this situation.
Why should we tithe? It appears in the Bible that tithing is instituted before the law. That would be with Abraham's gift to the King of Salem.
We see tithing is evident within the law throughout the sacrifices.
We see tithing in the prophet's. This is best illustrated by Malachi who in one verse tells us that God does not change, but is ever the same. Then he informs us of robbing God. This is a major tie
Still the best issue for tithing is Jesus who tells the Pharisees that they should tithe (Luke 11:42). The fact that the Pharisees sinned in justice displayes that tithing does not save, but before God it still should be done.

[seekingHim]

***Why should we tithe? It appears in the Bible that tithing is instituted before the law. That would be with Abraham's gift to the King of Salem. ***

Abraham gave to the King of Salem only once. He was not commanded.

*** We see tithing is evident within the law throughout the sacrifices. ***

This was commanded to them to whom the law was given - the Israelites. Moreover, this was of the fruit of the land, not money. If a tithe was to be converted into money, a fifth was to be added.

*** We see tithing in the prophet's. This is best illustrated by Malachi who in one verse tells us that God does not change, but is ever the same. Then he informs us of robbing God. This is a major tie ***

Malachi, by the Spirit of God prophesied to Israel concerning their departure from the Lord. At the very beginning of the book it says "The burden of the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi." not to America, Europe, Africa, etc.

***Still the best issue for tithing is Jesus who tells the Pharisees that they should tithe (Luke 11:42). The fact that the Pharisees sinned in justice displayes that tithing does not save, but before God it still should be done.***

Jesus was indeed speaking to those who were, as then, under the Law. Jesus came seeking the lost sheep of the house of Israel. It was these who had departed, not only from the law of God, but from the very Spirit of that law.

Remember, circumcision was also "before the law", but it was also commanded by God to Abraham - yet we do not have to be circumcised to be Christians, now, do we? Remember also, God is interested in our hearts, not so much the things that we do. In Matthew 7:22-23, Jesus says, "Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

[LouisBooth]

Good thing people believe you should tithe, because that's quite biblical 1. people that work in ministry deserve to get paid (so says the bible) and people shouldn't welch on your debts. Those 2 things sum up what your tithes go towards.

[ZiSunka]

Why shouldn't we tithe? It's only giving a minor fraction (10%) back to God.

I have read that the very poorest people are most faitful about tithing, and the very richest are the least faithful about tithing. The very poorest Christians around the world, most give 10% or more, while rich Christians in the Western World tend to give 3% or less to their church, to missions, to beneficence, etc. But rich Christians often spend 30% or more on entertainment and eating out. That's on average, and I find it disconcerting that the richer we are, the less we appreciate that it all comes from God.

[seekingHim]

Good point. Only problem: In order to keep the tithe, you must also keep the rest of the law. The same who said tithe one-tenth of your increase also said that you should be circumsized. There are 10 commandments, but also over 600 other laws. Which of those will we decide to pick next? Be alarmed, the person who introduces a hint of the law to the body of Christ today, will sow seeds to crop up on those who will add more tomorrow. When we're all at rest, provided the Lord does not come prior, what's to say a "new revelation" comes up and has everyone needing to be circumsized? Its in the Bible, is it not? Sound doctrine is sound doctrine. But remember, the gospel was given once, it is not an evolving doctrine that changes with each generation. Giving and its importance should be taught. Every Christian should GIVE as God has prospered him, not as mandated by a law that NONE of the brethren forthrightly taught or commanded. And by the way, who do you think gives cheerfully; one who wants to, or one who has to?

[closer]

Let's understand some small things. The whole law did not pass away. In the beginning Adam was given a code based on his revelation of God and it was one of obedience. Then Noah was given a code that changed in content from Adam's but not in princible (obedience). This was followed by Abraham's code which still held obedience as the key. This was followed by Moses's code which was based on you guessed it obedience. Now the new code given by Jesus was still based on Obedience. We are not told to forsake the law. We are told that the outward signs of the covenant (circumcision) have passed away. Still Jesus tell us to follow the great commandment and the second commandment which encompases the whole law.
The glue beneath all of these is faith. That is the pricible that leads one to obedience. When one puts faith on the field obedience follows. Jesus nor the apostles tells us to ignore the moral obligations to the law. I don't see a poll on here about whether it is okay to do any of the ten commandments. Is not putting God first part of the law? I sure hope so. Is idolatry part of the law? Therefore we must understand that under the Christological Code part of the law remained  in effect while part was fullfilled (sacifices, circumcision, etc.).
Therefore if tithing is a moral issue and I believe it is then it does not pass away. Why is it a moral issue? The reason it is a moral issue is that God says to those under the law not to tithe is to rob. Is robbery a moral issue? Yes it harms another. Thus when we accepted Christ law we are held to the moral standard underneath the umbrella of salvation.

[seekingHim]

The bottom line is: whoever wants to tithe - that's fine. Just do like James said - you must keep the WHOLE LAW. God didn't say tithe and that was it. There are more moral laws than just a tithe (if you want to call it a moral issue), but how come no one pays attention to those? But if love was involved, there would be no need to tithe. Christians would be Christians and the law for the believer would be the law and not Christ. But for the believer, Christ is the end of the law.

[closer]

You are correct there are more moral laws than just the tithe. The issue is did they pass away. No because all the moral laws are predicated on love. What did Jesus do? Gave us the new commandment to love one another and it is by this love that all men may know that we are his disciples. This is how one is to respond to man and God. We are to act in love which means we must also act morally

[seekingHim]

I believe a better question would be: What was the purpose of the tithe?

[Julie]

IT IS SCRIPTURAL.

 
A. Commenced with Abraham (Gen. 14:18-20). 


B. Continued with Jacob (Gen. 28:20-22)

.
C. Commanded by Moses (Lev. 27:30-32)
D. Committed by Nehemiah (Neh. 10:37-39; 13:10-12)

. 
E. Charged by Malachi (Mal. 3:8-10)


F. Commended by Jesus (Matt. 23:23).

  
  1. Tithing is not a substitute for personal service.


  2. Jesus practiced tithing (Mt. 5:17).

[Help-me-learn]

1. Did Jesus ever pay tithes as an example? Where? When?

2. Did Jesus tell Christians to pay tithes?

3. Did the Apostles teach Christians to pay tithes?

4. Did the Apostles pay tithes?

5. Did God command Abram to pay tithes in Gen. 14?

6. Did God command Jacob to pay tithes in Gen. 28?

7. Is Malachi 3 under the Old or New Covenant?

8. Did Jesus satisfy our debt 100% or in part?

9. If someone pays your debt, do you still owe it?

10. Was Malachi 3:9 talking to Christians?

11. Did Jesus give 10% or 100%?

12. Should we follow Jesus or Malachi?

13. Was the tithe ever money? See Leviticus 27:30-34

14. Did Jesus teach a 10% minimum to the Apostles?

15. Are God's children cursed by God or chastened?

16. Were the curses of the Law in Deut. 28 for us?

17. According to Romans 6-8, are you under the law?

18. Was the tithe of Malachi 3:3 an ordinance?

19. What happened to ordinances? See Eph 2:15, Col 2:14, 20

20. Weren't the Pharisees under the Law in Matthew 23:23?

21. In Luke 18:12 isn't Jesus narrating a story?

22. In Luke 18:12 is the message about the tithe or humility?

23. Did Abram's tithes make him righteous? Rom 3:28, 4:1-5

24. Is Luke 11:42 an Old Covenant reference under the law also?

25. Are we under the Law? See Rom 7:6, 8:2, 10:4?

26. Did Abram "pay" or "give" tithes? Gen 14:20

27. Are "paying" and "giving" the same thing?

[Help-me-learn]

we only assume Jesus practiced the tithe in Mat 5:16.
What did Jesus have to tithe anyway? He had a coin taken from a fishes mouth to pay a tax. I assume it is because He didnt have it on him.

[jko]

yes I do

[Martin]

I tithe simply because I love God, He's asked me to do it, It's all His anyway and it reminds me the He is my source of blessing.....

[Dewjunkie]

I tithe for many reasons, mainly because God compels me to. My family is more blessed, my church is more blessed, and God is more blessed when I tithe. God has given me so much, it is the least I can do.

[two feathers]

my tithes do not go to the church, as i do not agree with how money is spent in churches. i have instead opened a savings account especially for my tithes which goes to people in need. this is what god has led me to do with his money.

[batteredsheep]

After an examination of all the passages in the Bible on tithing, I submit the following observations:

Tithing was a custom that was prevalent in the ancient Near East (cf. Gen. 14:20; 28:22). These two texts do NOT give any indication whatsoever that God had commanded Abraham or Jacob to tithe.
Tithing, as practiced under the Mosaic Law, meant giving a tenth of the produce of the land (seed, grain, oil, wine) and the firstlings of the herds and flock.
Under the Mosaic Law, tithing was ordained for the support of the Levites and priests who received no inheritance in the land after the Conquest. As well, tithes were eaten together at a religious feast for all of Israel. Lastly, tithes were used to feed the needy ones: orphans, widows, and resident aliens.
The tithes were given only annually.
There are only four passages in the NT that speak of tithing, and none of them teach tithing as binding upon believers under the New Covenant.
Since the inauguration of the New Covenant, the entire OT sacrificial and worship system (which includes tithing) has been fulfilled in Christ, and hence, is no longer binding upon believers today.
Giving under the New Covenant is to be done voluntarily ("not under compulsion", 2 Cor. 9:7) while under the Mosaic Covenant, tithing was mandatory.


This is not to say that the New Testament has nothing to say about one's possessions. On the contrary, just as God was sole owner of the promised land which he gave as a gift to Abraham and his descendants, so too, God owns all that he has blessed us with. Of course, ultimately, everything is God's, since he is the Sovereign Creator of the universe.

Unfortunately, this post is far too long as it is, so I cannot look at the various NT passages on possessions and giving (e.g. Matt. 6:19-21; Luke 12:33; Acts 2:45; 2 Cor. 9:6ff, etc.). However, such a study would also require a comprehensive study of the broader themes of discipleship and stewardship. In the final analysis, it is Christ and his redemptive act on the Cross upon which all of my Christian life is based, and as far as giving is concerned, 2 Corinthians 8:9 is the paradigmatic passage for me.

I would therefore sum up my understanding of giving as "Grace Giving":

Gratefully: for all that God has blessed me with, especially for redeeming a sinner like me
Generously: sacrificially because of 2 Cor. 8:9
Graciously: cheerfully not grudgingly (2 Cor. 9:7)
Globally: in keeping with the Great Commission
Graduated: proportionately according to what God has blessed me with

Therefore, even though I cannot agree that the OT teaching on tithing remains binding upon Christians today, I affirm emphatically that the NT teaching on giving and material possessions is far more radical in its demand. As such, I am responsible to be a faithful steward of all that God has given me, including my treasures, time, and talents; and by God's grace, I shall seek to be obedient to his Word and its teaching on giving (including hospitality, an oft-neglected topic).

(It is interesting and instructive to consider how the church changed its view on material possessions in the early post-apostolic period, but this is beyond the scope of this post.)

"Perhaps the most deplorable aspect of the vigorous promotion of tithing is the damage done to the total concept of stewardship. Whenever the church intensifies the obligation of tithing to the level of divine law, it is almost inevitable that tithing will become the dominant form of stewardship ... The theology of stewardship is buried under the legalism of tithing." Marvin Tate, "Tithing: Legalism or Benchmark?", Review & Expositor 70 (Spring 1973): 161

[billhabing]

Originally posted by Droobie
Some say tithing is just for the old testament.  Some say tithing applies today too.  Why shouldn't we tithe?  Why should we tithe?

I guess that if you don't understand the teachings and call of jesus you could tithe,  it is a cheep way out. Jesus asks for all not 10%.

We we consider who we are it is insulting to hear someone suggest we give God a tithe. we lay down or life for our brothers, and how could you give to everyone who asks with ony 10% available to give?

The correct teaching IMO is to give it all time, money, and love.

[healthwoman]

I tithe every day giving my time and energy to God's service.

[ancientofdays33]

I do not tithe with money but I give my time as Audio tech, Computer repair, food ministry, emt for events, etc...

I believe That my time caring for others is my gift.

James
servant to all

[Katastrophe]

I look at it this way....I like to do more than tithing....I like to see how God can stretch the 80% I have :)

Katastrophe :clap:

[Follower of Christ]

"I do not speak according to command, but through the eagerness of others, and testing the trueness of your love. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, for your sakes He became poor, in order that you might be made rich through His poverty. And in this I give my judgment; for this is profitable for you, who began before, not only to do, but also to be willing a year ago. But now also finish the doing of it, so that, as there was a readiness to will, so also the finishing, giving out of what you have. For if the eagerness is present, it is acceptable according to what one has, and not according to what one does not have. For it is not that others may have ease, but you trouble; but by equality in the present time; your abundance for their need, that their abundance also may be for your need; so that there may be equality; "
(2 Corinthians 8:8-14 MKJV)


FOC:
Some are in a position to give 10%.
Some are in a position to give 30%
Some are in no position to give any at all.


"But let the one being taught in the Word share with the one teaching, in all good things. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked. For whatever a man may sow, that he also will reap. For the one sowing to his flesh will reap corruption of the flesh. But the one sowing to the Spirit will reap everlasting life from the Spirit. "
(Galatians 6:6-8 LITV)

[loribee59]

30th December 2002 at 05:28 AM batteredsheep said this in Post #18 (http://www.christianforums.com/showthread.php?postid=536012#post536012)

After an examination of all the passages in the Bible on tithing, I submit the following observations:

Tithing was a custom that was prevalent in the ancient Near East (cf. Gen. 14:20; 28:22). These two texts do NOT give any indication whatsoever that God had commanded Abraham or Jacob to tithe.
Tithing, as practiced under the Mosaic Law, meant giving a tenth of the produce of the land (seed, grain, oil, wine) and the firstlings of the herds and flock.
Under the Mosaic Law, tithing was ordained for the support of the Levites and priests who received no inheritance in the land after the Conquest. As well, tithes were eaten together at a religious feast for all of Israel. Lastly, tithes were used to feed the needy ones: orphans, widows, and resident aliens.
The tithes were given only annually.
There are only four passages in the NT that speak of tithing, and none of them teach tithing as binding upon believers under the New Covenant.
Since the inauguration of the New Covenant, the entire OT sacrificial and worship system (which includes tithing) has been fulfilled in Christ, and hence, is no longer binding upon believers today.
Giving under the New Covenant is to be done voluntarily ("not under compulsion", 2 Cor. 9:7) while under the Mosaic Covenant, tithing was mandatory.


This is not to say that the New Testament has nothing to say about one's possessions. On the contrary, just as God was sole owner of the promised land which he gave as a gift to Abraham and his descendants, so too, God owns all that he has blessed us with. Of course, ultimately, everything is God's, since he is the Sovereign Creator of the universe.

Unfortunately, this post is far too long as it is, so I cannot look at the various NT passages on possessions and giving (e.g. Matt. 6:19-21; Luke 12:33; Acts 2:45; 2 Cor. 9:6ff, etc.). However, such a study would also require a comprehensive study of the broader themes of discipleship and stewardship. In the final analysis, it is Christ and his redemptive act on the Cross upon which all of my Christian life is based, and as far as giving is concerned, 2 Corinthians 8:9 is the paradigmatic passage for me.

I would therefore sum up my understanding of giving as "Grace Giving":

Gratefully: for all that God has blessed me with, especially for redeeming a sinner like me
Generously: sacrificially because of 2 Cor. 8:9
Graciously: cheerfully not grudgingly (2 Cor. 9:7)
Globally: in keeping with the Great Commission
Graduated: proportionately according to what God has blessed me with

Therefore, even though I cannot agree that the OT teaching on tithing remains binding upon Christians today, I affirm emphatically that the NT teaching on giving and material possessions is far more radical in its demand. As such, I am responsible to be a faithful steward of all that God has given me, including my treasures, time, and talents; and by God's grace, I shall seek to be obedient to his Word and its teaching on giving (including hospitality, an oft-neglected topic).

(It is interesting and instructive to consider how the church changed its view on material possessions in the early post-apostolic period, but this is beyond the scope of this post.)

"Perhaps the most deplorable aspect of the vigorous promotion of tithing is the damage done to the total concept of stewardship. Whenever the church intensifies the obligation of tithing to the level of divine law, it is almost inevitable that tithing will become the dominant form of stewardship ... The theology of stewardship is buried under the legalism of tithing." Marvin Tate, "Tithing: Legalism or Benchmark?", Review & Expositor 70 (Spring 1973): 161



Amen to that! Here's a link to book written by the Webb brothers about Tithing: http://www.ontimepub.com/ which supports the very same things you listed above.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts about this topic. If you don't mind my asking: if you've never heard of this book, how did you come to this conclusion? Just being curious. :)

~loribee59

[1-peter5-9]

I tithed when I went to church, but I don't attend a home church at all. I'm pretty happy studying the Word of God on my own, praying, and praise and worship, are all things I do at home. Plus, it helps to have fellowship on the internet. That's my reason, but I if I was being fed at a certain house, I would definitely tithe every month. I always did before.

[rssllue]

Nothing but good things have happened to me financially since I began giving God back 10 percent of His money. A 90/10 split in my favor seems a very generous deal to me!

[Konnie]

Yes, I think we should tithe.

[Siliconaut]

Tithing (10%), to me, is not a requirement. It was an Old Law rule that we are no longer obligated to follow. Remember, the Old Law grew so that man's transgressions would grow so that we would realize, all the more, why we need Christ.

However, now that we are under the New Law, we have FREEDOM. Are not many things permissable, but not everything benefical? And because of that, (with biting of my lower lip) we have the freedom to give 5%, 10%, 20%, even 100%!!

The Law is written in my heart as what to give, for the Spirit that lives in me helps to guide me in such matters. And, besides, I am a Gentile, not a Jew. Why should I go back to there laws with its rules and regulations? Or live under Christ's Law -- Galatians 5:14 "For ALL the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."

Sadly, I sometimes believe that the demands for 10% by some are mere attempts to bound us under the Old Law. Whether it be due to the need for man to follow a Black and White rulebook out of fear to live in the freedom of walking in newness of faith or not, I really don't know. I do know that many wanted to return to the bondage of Egypt even after seeing the miracles of God during the times of Moses. Why? I don't know, but maybe they couldn't handle freedom. I wonder if some Iraqis will fill the same way and want to return to iron-fisted rule. What are your thoughts?

"Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."

"For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself."

"But let every man PROVE TO HIS OWN WORK, AND THEN SHALL HE HAVE REJOICING IN HIMSELF ALONE, AND NOT IN ANOTHER."

...."For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that THEY may glory in your flesh."

[bop1997]

YES we should tithe....it is bibical, GOD gave the word to his disciples or followers to put in the BIBLE, so that settles it! I tithe(when i get any oey or when i get a job after school). Form my experience it works, I used to give when I had a job and while im in school, and anytime i needs Gas, Food, buy books or pay bills, GOD ALWAYS provides. This all happen because I'm obeying GOD. I think the 10% is a test, just like most things. Who will pass it?

[Rhonda75]

I think too many people miss the mark when it comes to tithing. We are commanded to tithe by the Lord God himself. It's in the last book of the old testament. There is a specific reason for tithing...it is called obedience. Where is your heart? Also, we are commanded to be good stewards with what the Lord has entrusted to us, we don't own the money to begin with. He only requires 10% of what we have, I would say that is a good business partner. If you are following God so should your wallet. There are all kinds of worship to the Lord, one is your walk, serving God by tithing is part of that walk, this in itself is a sweet worship to him. They say that the first thing over a fence is a man's pants and the last to follow is his wallet. I have been tithing for almost 6 months, and you better believe that God has proved himself to me over and over even when he didn't have to. All my needs have been met, and then some. I tithe becuase I love the Lord, and money shouldn't be an issue when it comes to the Lord. If I didn't need money to survive, you better believe I wouldn't be hanging on to it. Sorry if anything I said was too harsh guys.

[Rhonda75]

Oh...I have a couple of things to add, now that I just ran by my post....

I heard that tithe means one-tenth? And God mentions your first fruit, that means before your taxes. (this way you don't have to tithe at the end of the year on your refund) And the storehouse is the church you belong to. How many of us sit in our church week after week, and take advantage of the heat, air conditioning, great choirs, bands, instruments. Where do people think all of that comes from...our tithes. Just because we do not follow old testament rules doesn't mean the pastors shouldn't get paid. My pastor delivers some of the most on fire messeges. I think he deserves raises every week. I think he deserves a nice car, and house. That's just my opinion. Rhonda

[Lizquest]

I do believe in it. Even though there are times when I can't give a percentage, because of being out of work, having major bills, etc. I still find something to give them.

[Holyjoe]

but why tithe? it makes no sense?

I believe in giving, yes - but tithing makes no sense because of the new covenant...where is it made relevant in the new testiment ?

[Chakotay2]

Right now, I'm not tithing, but I have in the past. It is in the Bible and I think we should if we are able. I know folks who just don't have the finances to do so. They give what they can to the church and leave it at that. Other people I know don't tithe as such; they give some to the church and use the rest of their 10% to help someone in need.

[pheerknot23]

My thoughts on old vs new testiment is that old testiment you gave 10% new testiment i would say encourages 100%. so in that case, in terms of percent, we owe more to God now than when we were bound by the law.

[suzie]

I did not answer the poll because I although we are no longer under the Law and not obligated to give our "10%", the principles of tithing in OT still apply to today. There seemed to be no option for that.

We are to give first to God as He directs, we are to give our best, we are to take care of what is His (church, less fortunate, etc)

Someone gave Luke 11:42 as NT reason to tithe, however the message was not mandating people to tithe, but that they were acting outwardly but not from the right motive or heart. The Pharisees had this habit of following the letter of the Law for their own gain and missing the meaning and intent behind the Law.

The New Testament tithe is found in 2 Corinthians 8 and through 9.
It tells us that our desire to give is more important than how much we give. While we are to keep our financial commitments in check, we are still called to give to those who need it. We may be the one in need as well at times. We give to God and not for our own benefit. God owns everything and we are to give back in proportion to what He give us. God blesses us so that we can give His blessing to others.

[Dawn Marie]

My thoughts on old vs new testiment is that old testiment you gave 10% new testiment i would say encourages 100%. so in that case, in terms of percent, we owe more to God now than when we were bound by the law.
Umm... so you have to give everything you have to the church and be left with nothing? I can barely handle the 10%... I wouldn't be able to give everything... I have nothing to give.

[Poiema]

Tithing a very simple way to thank God for all He has given us. We should remember that we are merely sewards of the Lord's blessings on us. HE gives to us, we do not get things ourselves. Since it is all from God anyway, and He is Master of it all, then we should approach the idea of tithing and gift-giving remembering that ... 100% is HIS.
To place a tithe (or whatever amount you give) at the end of the month's list of dues shows a lack of thanks and faith.

[Peterson]

This is a threefold question from a biblical standpoint. Who is required to tithe; who is authorized to receive the tithe; what was it to be used for?

1. Eleven of the twelve tribes of Israel were required
to tithe.
2. The Levites, who were the appointed priests,
received the tithe.
3. The tithe was to be used by the Levites for their
sustenance and the keeping of the temple. In fact the OT required 3 tithes, and since the tribes of Irael constituted a theocratic form of government, it could be likened to an income tax of 30%.

Since the time of the destruction of the temple in 70 AD, their has been no reason for the Jews or anybody else to feel obligated to tithe - and it is, in fact, impossible. No one has authority to collect a tithe from anyone today.

If you are a child of God, you are now the spiritual temple of God who resides in you, and as such, you should sustain that temple with spiritual things - not ten percent, but one hundred percent (1 Cor. 3:16-17; 2 Cor. 6:16).

If you feel obligated to financially support some group that you are in sympathy with, so be it, but you are not biblically obligated.

[alonenomore2]

We(I) can find justification for whatever we decide to regarding the tithe.I've used the same reasoning as everyone else on here,not to tithe in the past.I believe we are supposed to and have been doing so for some time now.God knows how much we need the money,yet we do it out of obedience and love of God.He has blessed us so much since we made that decision.He is faithful and true.I turn a blind eye to what might be done with the money.It is God's,not mine.Jehovah Gira.

[LadyBird]

I do when I have money...I don't have a job so I don't have a lot of money...and I usually use my bank card so I don't usually have cash...but that shouldn't be an excuse. But when I do get a part time job, I absolutyly posivily will tithe.

[mesue]

God wants 10% of my time, talent and treasure. He gave me 100% of my time, talent and treasure.

What a small price to pay for the One who gave it all and owns it all.

[Bic]

I won't speak for the others but for myself alone.
I tithe because I believe that everything we own belongs to God anyway. We all appreciate our clergy and if tithing keeps clergy of all denominations in a place where they can preach God's Word on Sundays and be a complete servant of God to all of us we are all better for it.
Blessings, Bic

[Snowy]

I give as much as I can....even if its 50 cents

[wow]

:wave:

[MAC]

I tithe because of the gratitude of the new heart He have place in me, and that other may here the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. But if I don’t tithe HE still love me with the same love He loves me first.

Can you imagine if salvation was dependent in how much you tithe?

That is a works gospel pay your way in!

[White_Socks]

I used to think I had to tithe 10% of my income to a church or ministry, or I was breaking a Biblical law. I did a lot of research on the internet, and found several good explainations why the old tithe is no longer valid. One thing that I realized on my own, was that Scripture gives the reason for giving 10% to the Levitical priesthood, and that was because they did not have an "inheritence" in the land, like the other tribes. Today, a Christian's inheritence is in the Kingdom of God, not land or animals on earth. There are other more technical reasons that I found, but too much to write about. Study it for yourself using a search engine.

I am now a cheerful giver, as I purpose in my heart to please the Lord.

Over and out.

[waas_MI]

Folks
Here is the purpose of Tithe. Read Malachi 3:10 for the definition.
God makes a promise with those who tithe.
You can expect great blessings in return. So why not TITHE ?

I heard a pastor ( Charles Stanley ) say that he had been tithing
since he was a young boy. He said that he received many blessings
in return. He says that it is good for folks who are in debt to get
out of debt. God blesses them with Financial Wisdom.

Question is can you be honest and tell me whether you trust
God on this ? Have received blessings in return ? Be honest ?

[orangetang22]

I dunno it seems so simple to me, tithing is giving back to God what is his in the first place. We are blessed with earthly riches by God, so they are his to start with. Why not give them back to a good cause, to help spread the word of God?

[alexandra1975]

i'm not sure what to belive with regards to all of this.

i look at my bills...and know that i cant afford to give a lot...let alone 10%.

when i sit in church it normally ends up being like $5....which may seem like so little...and it is....but when i'm sometimes have to skip paying my bills so i can get other things...i dont see how still giving 5 to the church is a problem.

[suzie]

White Socks you have the right idea....it's all God's and we give in accordance to His will and direction. There is no "set" amount that obligates us as Christians. It is all His.

[Im4HimiHs]

I believe that tithing goes beyond money, to include talents, work & life in general. It came down to, "How much of my life am I willing to turn over to God?" I will say, God has blessed me daily, in more ways than I could have imagined.

[Bevlina]

Jesus stated that it is when you give of YOUR SELF that you truly give.

[JC_FREAK]

I have found that not only do you know that what you are giving is going to a good cause but that you really get blessed so much as well by it. There are times when I'm really broke and I say to God, "I really can't afford to bring any money for the offering" but in the end, God is faithful and blesses me so much for giving to his work. PRAISE THE LORD!!!

[waas_MI]

Folks
Tithing is giving 10% of your money ( before tax ) to the church. This should be done only when you receive money ( from employer or business or yard sale .. what ever income ) Am I correct ? This comes from the original definition in Malachi 3:10.
I prayed to God one time asking how much should I be giving the church.
And hsi reply was a 10%. Didn't say whether it was before or after tax.

Now my question is this. Malachi 3:10 says that you receive a big blessing
when you tithe ? Do you folks agree with this ? Have you experienced this ?
Can you share some of your experiences with us please ?
Thanks

[suzie]

wass-

The new covenant giving is seen in 2 Corinthians 8-9

"Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 2Cor 9:7

The OT law commanded giving a tenth of the produce of the land for the support of the Levites and priests who led the community in worship, and an additional tenth every third year was put into storage for the poor and needy.
Paul however introduced the principle that no fixed amount was commanded to be given or that anyone "had" to give.

Paul instead showed that giving was a response to Jesus who though was rich became poor so that we may become rich through His poverty...that giving was an act of love and a grace that we develop. It is seen more as a sharing of our blessings....

So although the principles of Malachi still apply, that we should give to God and give first to Him, although many Christians use the 10% as a "rule of thumb" God actually calls us to give everything to Him, for it is all His to begin with, He then can use us accordingly for His purpose.

[geeserver]

Didn't I see a post like this in another area?

Why tithe, Its LAW, we live under GRACE! Give to what the holy spirit put on your heart. Give proportionately & give cheerfully (2 cor 8)!


Here is an example of how outrageous a percentage is.
Example:
I had $200,000 and gave 10% = $20,000 Leaving $180,000
I had $20,000 and gave 10% = $2,000 Leaving $1,800


Its not a right or just proportion. God gave us all the greatest blessing. His SON. We can live instead of dying to SIN. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal LIFE in Christ Jesus our Lord. Knowing that I have life and the holy spirit is in me, I want to do things right not forced!

Giving to a church... Aren't your brothers & sisters in Christ are the church, not a building or a TV program. Help others around you.

[AMOS MANZONZO]

I believe in tithing and the Lord has been doing great things in my life because of this. As He promised in the Bible that He will pour blessings that we will not have enough room to contain; this is true if we can only tithe!

[orangetang22]

The fact is we should trust God in EVERY aspect of our lives, and YES that means money too! What good is it to say that "I do good works for the Lord and devote all my time to him, but i can't afford to give any money." You are telling God that your trust him to make time for witnessing for him and spreading his word but, you don't think he is powerful enough to budget your money for you. I understand that there are some people that are on a very fixed income and feel that they can not even spare 10%. God needs money too, after all he's the one who gave you your money to begin with, your only giving a small portion of what is rightfully his. I pray that you will trust in God to convict in your heart what you should or should not do, the choice is yours not any of ours.

[geeserver]

give $$$ to whom? you can't do more for God. he done it all!
God doesnt need your $$$. Help people with the $$$. Spread your wealth to others in NEED!!! Thats TRUE GIVING, Biblically!!!!

[TransformedByGrace]

If you don't tithe, try it

[Droobie]

Now my question is this. Malachi 3:10 says that you receive a big blessing
when you tithe ? Do you folks agree with this ? Have you experienced this ?
Can you share some of your experiences with us please ?
Thanks
I've not experienced a huge 'out of the blue' blessing, like a cheque in the mail or a sudden inheritance, but I can see that my life is truly financially blessed. My wife and I tithe regularly at least 10% of our incomes. Even at a time when I was out of work we continued to tithe faithfully. There was one occasion where through a miscommunication instead of $200 we gave $2000. We still continued to tithe.

Now, I have a higher paying job, and my wife just had a promotion. God is blessing us with increase. We have always been able to give whenever we wanted to without needing to think about it.

[orangetang22]

give $$$ to whom? you can't do more for God. he done it all!
God doesnt need your $$$. Help people with the $$$. Spread your wealth to others in NEED!!! Thats TRUE GIVING, Biblically!!!!


I'm sorry you missed the point of my post please read again ;)

I wasen't saying that God needed our money, i was saying that we should trust him with our money. Sorry for the confustion

[suzie]

Why would you stop at 10%? Why not give it all over to God....

[chris0513]

I think it is absolutely DANGEROUS to expect blessings based on tithing. I also think it is absolutely biblical.

God does not show favortism (Acts 10:34, Romans 2:11) so that means he will bless according to His will, not your tithe.

To assume that God will bless moreso (even if you only believe in financial return) is to assume you are more favored than someone who does not tithe (or give, as Wow pointed out).

Ultimately, it comes down to this. EVERYTHING we do has to be a reflection of our love for Christ. If you give money to your church (and I wholeheartedly believe you should) then give it out of love. Don't do it because you are obligated under any law.

If someone is not giving of his time, money, skills, etc. then I would presume there is some error or chasm in his or her relationship with God.

Folks, the whole point to this Christianity thing is not to find religion, but relationship. If we are not falling more and more in love with Jesus every day then money is certainly not an issue. If someone is keeping their money to themselves then they are doing so from selfish motives. Guaranteed.

This nonsense that God doesn't need money is just that; nonsense. Of course God doesn't need money, but His church does. If you are questioning how your church uses the money you DO give, find another church, one you can commit to.

If you take home nothing else, remember that the name of the game is LOVE, and our actions are but a mere reflection of that love.

In Christ,

Chris

[waas_MI]

Chris
I agree with you.
Yes we should give out of love. But I am saying it is certainly OK to expect a blessing. Read MALACHI 3:10. Why does God promise a blessing in return ? I bet he wouldn't promise something that he cannot provide. Would he ?

If God will not bless us in return then the scripture is wrong or God is not true.
Please talk to a few pepole who TITHE and have received a blessing in return.
I am not expecting God to make me a lotterey winner but certainly he will
bless us.

Some people say we are not under the law! Hmmm.. Read Matthew 5:17
Jesus said that he didn't come to abolish the law!
This means the law is valid to some extent.

However, God doesn't need your money by putting you under obligation.
If you give 10% then he will definietly bless you.
why stop at 10% If I can I will go for 20% and expect even more blessings.

Do you agree with me brother ?

[waas_MI]

Sorry friends. I didn't mean to reply. I don't know how to delete this .
So I will keep is like this. Just ignore!!

[waas_MI]

Folks
Does Tithing work....????
Listen to my story!

I started to Tithe in May 2003 ( first tithe ). I lost my job,
got laid off. But I tithed till end of July since the company
gave me a regular salary for 2 months.
Then I got a big severence pay check.
Didn't TITHE. My wife and I
feared that it was a big amount and if we didn't get a job
then no money for us to pay bills.

Now, I felt so bad. But I had to take my wifes side and
sin by no TITHING.
Now see... I don't have a job as of now ( almost 6 months ).

But we do get Unemployment pay checks. I have TITHED using these.
Got about 5 or 6 so far but I do give 10% off the Gross.
No cheating from this point onwards. I learnt my lesson.

I am still praying for a job. You think God has cursed
me because I failed to TITHE when I got the big check?




Help me out here. What do you say ?
Have you had a similar experience ? Lets share ?
Please!

[seebs]

No, I think the economy is bad.

The idea that God "curses" people for not following rules He explicitly ended two thousand years ago is very, very, bad theology.

[Droobie]

I am still praying for a job. You think God has cursed me because I failed to TITHE when I got the big check?
I think the devil would love you to belive this. Would you think that the God we know, who loves us and cares for us, would curse you for being unable to tithe? We are also taught to be wise with the money we have. God looks at your heart and the attitude you have when tithing.

Be faithful in what you do and you will find that God is infinitely more faithful.

[Lgangelina]

I've always looked at tithing as somewhat of a step of faith. Basically if you don't quite have it to give, try to give it anyway. I agree with everyone else who has said that it should be done out of faith and love for the Lord instead of "just another rule". I don't know exactly what the Bible says in the New Testament about tithing but many people I know that have been in this situation have found that money just seems to come from other places when it doesn't seem like there's enough to go around. God will always provide for us and make sure we have everything we need to survive.

[chris0513]

Chris
I agree with you.
1. Yes we should give out of love. But I am saying it is certainly OK to expect a blessing. Read MALACHI 3:10. Why does God promise a blessing in return ? I bet he wouldn't promise something that he cannot provide. Would he ?

2. If God will not bless us in return then the scripture is wrong or God is not true.
Please talk to a few pepole who TITHE and have received a blessing in return.
I am not expecting God to make me a lotterey winner but certainly he will
bless us.

3. Some people say we are not under the law! Hmmm.. Read Matthew 5:17
Jesus said that he didn't come to abolish the law!
This means the law is valid to some extent.

4. However, God doesn't need your money by putting you under obligation.
If you give 10% then he will definietly bless you.
why stop at 10% If I can I will go for 20% and expect even more blessings.

5. Do you agree with me brother ?
Sir,

I have enumerated your points so that I may adequately respond.

1. Malachi 3:10 is speaking directly to sinners who failed to uphold the law. They failed to uphold the law based on FOOD! The high priests at the time were starving because the people failed to bring their tithe of foodstuffs. Again, this is OLD covenant. God blessed obedience to his law at that time. And at that time, keeping the Law was requisite for attaining salvation. If you are a fan of this passage, I would highly encourage you to adopt the rest of the law from which we have been freed. You can't keep part of it!

Galatians 5:13-15 reads: "13You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature ; rather, serve one another in love. 14The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."15If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. " (NIV)

2. Again, God will bless me for my love for him. Out of that stems love for others and obedience to His word and commands. Out of love, NOT OBLIGATION or desire! What you posit in this statement is that we should pay God for blessing! Yes he will bless you, but not based on how much you pay him, or that you pay him at all!!!!

3. No no no no no. Jesus came to fulfill and redeem the law. Galatians 4:4-5 says this.."But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5to redeem those under law."

You misinterpret. And that simple misinterpretation has you believing that we are still under the law. We are not, we are under grace. The word you believe is a word you do not understand. The crux of your understanding focuses on the word "redeem" in Matthew 5:17. Jesus did not come to abolish the law, because that would be to render it useless and void, and since the law was in Scripture, it cannot be returned void (Isaiah). Ergo, it had to be redeemed, which in the Greek means :

plēroō (play-ro'-o) From G4134; to make replete, that is, (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc.: - accomplish, X after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply.

Where in that word study do you see that Christ did not expire, perfect, etc the law. WE ARE NOT UNDER LAW!!!

4. NO....Sir, this is absolutely false theology. If you take home nothing else from this understand this...there is no performance track to Christianity.

GOD WILL NOT BLESS YOU MORE IF YOU PAY HIM MORE!!!

You cannot earn salvation. God does not work on a point system. God is not an investment plan. If God sees fit to provide for you financially, then I guarantee you it is not based on how much you have given Him. It is based on how much He sees fit and is in accordance with his will.

This is so dangerous.

What's next, Oh Slippery Slope? Tell me that your life is your witness and there is no need to actually tell people about Christ?

This is performance based Christianity and I will have nothing to do with it. It's not about how much Bible you read, how much time you spend at Church, or any of that. It's about hopeless love. Jesus is not a 401(k).

5. Most certainly, absolutely not. I rebuke that false theology you have posited sir.

Humbly,

Chris

[waas_MI]

Thanks Chris.
Dear brother

But I am still confused. Let's forget the business of TITHING for a moment.
Lets talk about the law.

1. Read Romans 3:31: "Do we, then, nullify the law by faith?Not at all! Rather,we uphold the law."

2.Read Matthew 5:17: Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.

3. Now tell me please.
3.1 Why does Paul say that the law is not nullified ?
3.2 Why does Christ say that I have not come to abolish the law.

3.3 Both these mean that the law is not void, meaning we should not
forget it. Now please! Can you explain to me what these 2 are trying to
say ? You mean to say that there is no law anymore ???

3.4 You mean to say we don't have to worry about the
ten commandments anymore ?

3.5 I like the scripture in Galations ( One you included in your reply ) What does the phrase "redeem the law" mean ? Can you explain this in very simple
english please ?


4. Please don't take my reply personally. I am trying my best to understand
scripture. I am new to this. I am not trying to hurt anyone here.

5 Once I am clear about all this I will raise my questions back again on TITHING.

Thanks!
Please reply.I'd like to hear from you.

[wrtbooks]

Old testament rule says that we should tithe 10% , New testament rule says that we are not our own and we have been redeemed so everything that we have and are, are Gods! give as led its all His anyways. What can we take with us.

[Rechtgläubig]

Do I tithe?

No. I do give an offering to the church though.

God loves a cheerful giver so I give willingly and freely, not out of obligation.

[waas_MI]

Do I tithe?

No. I do give an offering to the church though.

God loves a cheerful giver so I give willingly and freely, not out of obligation.

Tell me what an offering means. Can you be very specific ?

[DMX]

Tithing has nothing to do with the law, having been introduced long before the law was given to Moses on Mount Sinai. It is a practice that God approved of, in which Abraham showed His gratitude by giving Him first fruits of everything. The principle remains the same today, and was not discouraged by Christ either. I have proven Malachi 3:10 far too often for anyone to convince me that the established covenant between God and the tither is not real.

[waas_MI]

I have proven Malachi 3:10 far too often for anyone to convince me that the established covenant between God and the tither is not real.

Mr DMX
Are you saying that you don't believe in Malachi 3:10 or what ?

[DMX]

Mr DMX
Are you saying that you don't believe in Malachi 3:10 or what ?
On the contrary, I am saying the opposite. I HAVE proven it to be true.

[waas_MI]

Some folks don't like MALACHI 3:10



Re: TITHING - I summarized your
reasoning so far


Some of you were against the scripture in MALACHI 3:10.
Some said it was only for the jews.
Some said it was only for the Levites.
Some said it was only for Farmers and food..etc etc.
Some said the law is not valid any more.
Those of you who said the law is not valid,
Do you believe in the "TEN COMMANDMENTS" ?
We had many excuses against giving the church.

So I managed to get a piece of scripture from another
book. Again it's about Giving





If you don't like the OLD testament then this is not for you. People who believe TITHING also believe the OLD testament.
The first TITHE was given
by Abraham to the high priest even before the law was introduced
Today Jesus is our high priest.
Why not give him the TITHE


Do you remember in the NEW TESTAMENT how Jesus
called his disciples and admired the poor widow when she
gave most of her money to the Tabernacle ?
Have you forgotten this ???


She could have easily kept the money with her. - Why give the church

She didn't think like those who are against TITHING.


This is because she wanted to honor god.


She gave more than 10% to the church ? Didn't she ?


That's right folks! You get it now! The purpose of TITHING is to
HONOR GOD. It is a form of giving thanks to him.
It is a form of you putting him first in your life.
You HONOR him with your first fruits. - The money you make.
After all it is GOD who gives you the ability to make money.





The following scripture was taken from the book PROVERBS.
I have also posted the meaning of the scripture taken
directly from my STUDY BIBLE.
So... This is not my opinion.



Proverbs 3:9
Honor the Lord with your wealth,
with the firtfruits of all your crops;
then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new vine.



Here is the meaning taken directly from
my STUDY BIBLE. Not my opinion...



The firstfruits refers to the practice of
giving to Gods use the first and best
portion of the harvest (Deuteronomy 26:9-11).
Many people give God their leftovers.
If they can afford to donate anything, they
do so. These people may be sincere and
donate willngly, but their attitude is
nonetheless backward. It is better to give
the firstpart of our income. This demonstrates
that God, not possessions, has firstplace in our
lives and thatour resources belong to him ( we are
only managers of Gods resources ) Giving to God
first help us conquer greed, helps us properly
manage God's resources, and opens us up to
receive God's special blessing.



That's right! - Don't forget! When we HONOR him
we will certainly receive his blessings.
Important!
God doesn't just take from you and forget you.
He is a loving God

[seebs]

God cannot be bribed. The whole idea that you get special rewards for money is shoddy theology.

[creeb]

another good poll question I think we should tithe as to those who asked why should we tithe how about out of gratitude for wot christ did for us remember he died for us but let get it straight wot it means to tithe it means that u give 10% of ur gifts talents and wealth to god does it seam unfair that god asks for 10% of the things he gave us back for his use when he gave 100% of Jesus to us

[cindylou]

I didn't vote in this poll either because I think tithing means different things to different people. First of all, we must understand the principle and not just the law. Tithing requires sacrifice. The women who gave 2 coins as an offering gave 100% not 10%, but she was blessed because she gave "all she had". The principle is fairly simple...God blesses us with many things, we should show him our gratitude by giving a percent of our income back. I cannot say that we should give 10%..sometimes people's budgets just do not allow this. One should not tithe 10% if some of that money is needed to pay bills. However, striving towards 10% is a good plan. We started out a few years ago with 2%, which wasn't much. We are now up to 5%. It's a process. Some though, tithe expecting God's abundant blessings. I don't think this is right.

[waas_MI]

Hi Cindy
We should give out of love. I agree.
Remember! God rewards us because he thinks that we should be given.
Not because we expected a reward or blessing when we gave the TITHE.

After all God made the promise. Luke 6:38 explains this. When ever we
give to God, God returns more back to us. This is why some books say that you can not "outgive" God. This is one of his principles. He loves to
honor people who honor him. He is a loving God.

[Geoff_Conn]

Should we Tithe. Well there is so many different answers. But I think we all should give something into the kingdom of God. If no one gave then we would'nt have crusades, conferneces, church planting etc.

I'am 21 and live with parents so I have more money to myself than a house owner. I give over 50% of my wages into the Kingdom of God. I put my finances into the hands of God. I don't believe that there is much point storing up treasures on earth and you can't take it to heaven, only souls.


Now I can honestly say that I've recieved more blessings since I've given into God's Kingdom. But I don't believe with alot of the junk out there, the prosperity gospel etc.

Given away money cause Steve Munsey says you should is'nt going to bring you wealth. Give into God's kingdom cause there are many ministries that need your support!

[waas_MI]

Now I can honestly say that I've recieved more blessings since I've given into God's Kingdom.

Dear Brother
Thanks for being honest and sharing your story.
Now, can you please share with us a story about a blessing you received ?
We would love to hear your testimony.

[Lambert flores]

Let's look at this situation.
Why should we tithe? It appears in the Bible that tithing is instituted before the law. That would be with Abraham's gift to the King of Salem.
We see tithing is evident within the law throughout the sacrifices.
We see tithing in the prophet's. This is best illustrated by Malachi who in one verse tells us that God does not change, but is ever the same. Then he informs us of robbing God. This is a major tie
Still the best issue for tithing is Jesus who tells the Pharisees that they should tithe (Luke 11:42). The fact that the Pharisees sinned in justice displayes that tithing does not save, but before God it still should be done.
email me your personal tithe stories of God's Blessings in your life and I will include it in my new book about titihing at lambertflores@yahoo.com

[Lambert flores]

BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST,

Im Lambert from the Philippines,and Im writing a book about tithing especially the blessings that you receive from God by your tithing. Im collating Personal Tithe stories around the world. Can u share Why and How u start tihing. email me your your story and the BLESSINGS that God has given you and your family!!!at lambertflores@yahoo.com

God Loves You!!!
LAMBERT
EMAIL THIS TO ALL YOUR CHRISTIAN FRIENDS,I NEED YOUR HELP TO FINISH MY BOOK FOR GOD'S GLORY AND HONOR!!!

[TheRickster]

Tithing is good. Imagine if the whole christian church tithed what we could do in this world.

I was naked and you clothed me, I was hungry and you fed me, I was sick and in prison and you came and visited me....

[waas_MI]

Tithing is good. Imagine if the whole christian church tithed what we could do in this world :clap: .


From your username :pray: (wofyouthpastor) :pray: it appears that you must be a
pastor. If this is correct answer the following ?

What would you honestly do with the :wave: money :wave: that you receive
from TITHING ?

[Droobie]

So to those who oppose tithing, how does a Church find resource to run? Or do you not believe in having a Church in the first place?

[PistGurl]

Some say tithing is just for the old testament.  Some say tithing applies today too.  Why shouldn't we tithe?  Why should we tithe?
:help:
I don't want to seem ignorant here, but I think I'd be better off knowing...what exactly IS tithing?! sorry!

[waas_MI]

Here is my definition

When you receive any form of income ( paycheck,yard sale money )
you honor God by giving 10% ( out of the gross amount ) to God.

Now,some people give it to the church. Some argue that it should be
given to the needy. Some give it to UNITED WAY. Some people who
don't have a church send it to Joyce Meier ministries. I've heard
more than dozen answers on that.

I'd like to give it to the church where I go every Sunday. :clap: :D

[theseed]

Some say tithing is just for the old testament. Some say tithing applies today too. Why shouldn't we tithe? Why should we tithe?
I try to tithe regularly, but come short.

[Lizzy16]

that's really a good question actually....
I believe you should do it from your own free will. I don't mean to insult anyone here, but for example, the mormons HAVE to do it, and I don't think it's right (I don't want to offence anyone here, I am just opining)....

[PistGurl]

Here is my definition

When you receive any form of income ( paycheck,yard sale money )
you honor God by giving 10% ( out of the gross amount ) to God.

Now,some people give it to the church. Some argue that it should be
given to the needy. Some give it to UNITED WAY. Some people who
don't have a church send it to Joyce Meier ministries. I've heard
more than dozen answers on that.

I'd like to give it to the church where I go every Sunday. :clap: :D

Thankyou! :hug: I'm not gonna vote! obviously-not being Christian and not going to church, voting would be stupid and unnescessary!! Don't want to sway your votes! ^_^

[AtlantaFest04]

We tithe

[notworthy]

This is my opinion on tithing- God has blessed me with Good health and has blessed me with a job. Everything I have comes from him and I'm grateful for all of it. I love him and want to please him. It is all his so I don't have any problem giving to his church and the ministries that are important to me. I wish i could give more! This is a major issue in our household. My husband does not agree with me on this one. He gives what he feels comfortable with and I give what I feel comfortable with. This is just how I feel about the issue!

[waas_MI]

This is my opinion on tithing- God has blessed me with Good health and has blessed me with a job. Everything I have comes from him and I'm grateful for all of it. I love him and want to please him. It is all his so I don't have any problem giving to his church and the ministries that are important to me. I wish i could give more! This is a major issue in our household. My husband does not agree with me on this one. He gives what he feels comfortable with and I give what I feel comfortable with.This is just how I feel about the issue!

Sorry! I had something in mind and then I realized that it would not
be appropriate here.
God Bless you. I don't have a comment on your way of giving.

[waas_MI]

that's really a good question actually....
I believe you should do it from your own free will. I don't mean to insult anyone here, but for example, the mormons HAVE to do it, and I don't think it's right (I don't want to offence anyone here, I am just opining)....

Lizzy
I am assuming that you are from Israel ? Are you jewish ( Never mind..I won't attack you )
The first TITHE was given by and introduced by and practiced by people
of Israel. It's Gods chosen plan.
Tell me please... Is TITHING still honored in Israel today ? We like to
know how Gods chosen people respect his own word ?
What are your comments ?

[FR0G]

I checked no. My husband does not agree with tithing. I am going to look for a job next week though, an will tithe from the income I earn.

[LynneClomina]

yes i tithe.
because it is in my heart to do so.
i have a conviction to do so.
i believe tithing is outside of the law and applicable today.
if you do not feed those who minister to your souls, how will they live?

[RhetorTheo]

I used to unthinkingly believe that the tithe was required, but after reading the scriptures I grew in knowledge. I had tithed, and gave ~25% of my income one year, and God did not bless me for it. I now know why, and that's because he was displeased that I was following the OT Law of tithing, and thereby rejecting the God of the NT.

[Jesusfrk4life77]

i dont tithe cuz i really dont have any money but i used to and im tryin to get back into the habit of it! Itz the right thing to do....Jesus gave His life for us...dont u think He deserves only 10% of your money~!
Alexis M

[Flynmonkie]

Tithing was actually a way to pay taxes in the OT. But in our time I believe we should tithe. To me tithing is not just money, it is time, food, clothing etc...anything you can give. But we should all support our ministry one way or another. If you can give 10% of your income GREAT if not, giving of these other things is the same in Gods eyes. He knows your heart. But I really like the verse:

Malachi 3:10 (KJV)
Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it :)

[cfbro1]

I think that you should and if you worry about the money the bible says you will be repaid ten-fold, but not necessarily with money. For instance you might get an incredible deal on a house or car, etc.

[Wolflily]

Tithing is how we take care of our ministers and Jesus even acknowledged that His disciples should expect to be taken care of for the work they did when He first sent them out on the road without Him.

[Wahwax]

Chose to avoid tithing at your own risk. I've tried skipping a week or 2 and boy did things fall apart. God's blessing coincide with my tithing.

[Umbra]

Tithing is simply giving back to the Lord a portion of what he has been gracious enough to bless you with. by tithing, we are a being good stewards of our possesions and supporting our local church as we are commanded to do....The Lord loveth a cheerful giver!

[Glorianna]

There was already a very similar question to this one. My answer is yes; 10% of every paycheck I get goes to God.

[Mikel252]

Tithing is clearly not a part of the New Covenant. The tithe was a 10% "tax" that was used to pay for the Levites who had no inheritance and were expected to logitically run the Nation of Israel.

New Covenant is to give freely, (not muzzle the ox). The people who serve us and God as their only job should be paid for their work (again, don't muzzle the ox). Paul says to give freely as God has given to you and does not state a 10% requirement.

[wildthing]

Right now I don't tithe as regularly as I should. i lost my job sometime ago and it is very hard to give money to the Church. Some times I have more then enough and I freely share it. But the one thing that I do have is a great deal of is time. Which I do give, I work on their computer system to up date attendence list. I even for a while worked the sound system. What I am getting to is this It looks like 10% of the church is doing 90% of the work. Can this also be called a tithe. Oh well just my .02 worth.

[TheMainException]

my paycheck=$0
10% of $0
my tith=$0

[brinny]

You bet'cha we should tithe and then some. Furthermore it should be done with joy and thanksgiving. Everything we have is God's. Will He not see that our needs are met? It's not our money, it's God's.

[Moros]

No income.

[yashuaskid]

:preach: Not only should we tithe...it should be off the gross. It is written in the Bible. I can guarantee you that if you give your tithe to God...you will ALWAYS have favor. He will always provide for you for honoring and obeying him.

[Data Storage]

I tithe.

[CJ.23]

Question: I live in a Country with an Established Church (the UK in fact) where my taxes support the Church, of which I am a member. I may well choose to make free will offerring, but am I obliged to tihe? Bear in mind also that the State in the uK provides welfare and socialised medicine and education which in the biblical period would have been what a large proportion of the tithe went on, anemly looking after the poor.

So should Anglicans tithe? Our church does not ask us to...

cj x

[Mrs. Matt Dally]

I do. I mean, it's the very least I could do for him after all he's done for me.:bow:

[okiemommy26]

No but i should

[Neal]

My life is a "tithe."

[GodFlute2]

I do when I get change for what I get paid.

[BubblesRelena]

even though I don't currently go to a church. I still tithe. I send my tithe money to a church in Oregon (I live in Cali) that I support.

~BubblesRelena

[allsweetncool]

My dad is a pastor and i can tell you first hand how few people tithe. It's almost scary. We Christians need to realize that a tenth of our income isn't ours to begin with. It's Gods. Then go from there.

Love
Danie;

[ralrachaan]

Jesus said something to the effect of "Give unto the romans what is due to the romans, and give unto God what is due unto God"

Our tithing is what we owe to God.

Also, ok, I'm a preachers kid. My church is not very big, and doesn't have a lot of money. My dad's only job is being a preacher. If no one in my church payed tithes, then my dad would not get payed, and he could not be a pastor. If no one payed anything to the church there would be no churches.

[die2live]

Why shouldn't we tithe? It's only giving a minor fraction (10%) back to God.

I have read that the very poorest people are most faitful about tithing, and the very richest are the least faithful about tithing. The very poorest Christians around the world, most give 10% or more, while rich Christians in the Western World tend to give 3% or less to their church, to missions, to beneficence, etc. But rich Christians often spend 30% or more on entertainment and eating out. That's on average, and I find it disconcerting that the richer we are, the less we appreciate that it all comes from God.

First, I want to make it clear that I agree with you. We should give more than we do. I do however want to question why we assume that 10% is the "right amount to give. I believe that we should give all that we possibly can. For the poor, that can be less than 10%. For the rich, it is far more.
Before I continue, you must understand that I don't believe entertainment is wrong. But I do believe the excessive money we spend on it is. What if all the money Christians spent on movie theaters were given to ministy? It would make a difference. I believe to tithe means to give all that you possibly can afford to give. And this goes beyond money.

[cinni]

i tithe not always the 10% i give what i can my pastor says we should give the 10% even if we don't have it because god will provide i guess lack of faith on my part but i believe in tithing.

[chaplainjared]

God has placed leaders in my church to comfort, help, spiritually guide the congregation.
If we dont tithe he doesnt get paid and the church no longer exists.

Its also putting our money where our mouth is.

If we believe in something we invest into it....
you pay money to go see a team play sport, watch a movie etc

And besides its not out money anyway, we are only giving back to God what is already his. God wants us to give becasue he gave, and he wants us to be like him...
"for god so loved the world he GAVE...."

[Revelations 22:20]

I give 10% to the Lord.

[Zoomer]

I do not tithe but I give freely in my offering and of my time.

[brinny]

I tithe, give offering, and support in whatever way I can.

[Raheelah]

Tithe 10% of all that i receive :) ;) :D :cool: :P :wave: :thumbsup: :amen: :clap: :hug: :preach: :prayer: :groupray: :bow: :angel:

[akascottb]

whatever is given to the church should be given in the spirit of thankfullnes. remember, giving to the church is not charity. the church is God's charity to humanity.

[loribee59]

I don't tithe; The way I see is akin to trying to "buy" God's blessings like Jacob did in the OT, which is considered very offensive to God.


http://www.cultwatch.com/tithing.html#54***

http://www.tekoapublishing.com/books/intro.html (very good)

http://www.bible-truths.com/tithing.html

http://www.ontimepub.com/ (excellent, in depth book on tithing)

[feo]

Tithing is seen too much as numbers.
I think some churches even make it out; to be all about numbers.

Tithing is essential for proper spiritual growth... especially here in America. Everyone is infatuated (myself included) with materialism

It angers me to no end; to see the Lord's blessings being worshipped... instead of us using His blessings to worship Him

I believe a better question would be: What was the purpose of the tithe?

I'm not sure how biblical my response is; but I see tithing as a form of sacrifice. Does our Lord and God *need* money? Does our Christ *need* the first grain? The last time I checked, my Heavenly Father didn't *need* anything; our giving to Him is to show our dependance on God.

Meaning, the purpose of tithing- it show God that I rely on Him- by giving away any worldly wealth.

My pastor delivers some of the most on fire messeges. I think he deserves raises every week. I think he deserves a nice car, and house. That's just my opinion. Rhonda

And it is my opinion that your pastor doesnt "deserve" anything.
I see many pastors drive really nice cars.
I see many pastors own HUGE houses.

Which is fine and dandy, but what bothers me- is these pastors do not use these "gifts" to advance God's kingdom. They are used for personal comfort.

I do not tithe with money but I give my time as Audio tech, Computer repair, food ministry, emt for events, etc...

I believe That my time caring for others is my gift.

Do you think that is the only gift our God has given YOU?

Umm... so you have to give everything you have to the church and be left with nothing? I can barely handle the 10%... I wouldn't be able to give everything... I have nothing to give.

We *ALL* have something to give.
Even the poor poor widow dropped in a few pennies.
You claim to not have a single penny to your name?

Then give something else.

my paycheck=$0
10% of $0
my tith=$0


No income.

LAWise520 and Bruncvik:
Are you blessed with anything else besides money?

I don't tithe; The way I see is akin to trying to "buy" God's blessings like Jacob did in the OT, which is considered very offensive to God.

IMO: that is an unbiblical view of tithing.

[bill16652]

i have found that by tithing and giving offerings god blesses me. i cant outgive god.

[LadyCoyote_Fin]

yep!

[Miss Spaulding]

Yes, I tithe. I was taught to tithe at young age.

[~ Gig ~]

I tithe, give offering, and support in whatever way I can.:thumbsup:

Me too:cool:

[ysl_75]

Some say tithing is just for the old testament. Some say tithing applies today too. Why shouldn't we tithe? Why should we tithe?
We should tithe because its written in the Bible.

[FlyerBoy]

I tithe because I feel it is needed for my church needs

[brinny]

I tithe...only wish I had more to give..

[Ceccia]

Well, despite my best efforts at finding a job over the past six months, I am still umeployed. I go out whenever I'm not in class or at rehearsal and look for openings, and certainly I've prayed about it many times. But still, no job.

So I suppose I won't be giving anything anytime soon, because I literally have nothing to give! :sigh:

Should that happy day come when I finally find decent employment, I would be grateful and would certainly give some of it to doing God's work. I rather like the idea of sponsoring a child though---I don't think that it matters whether you put the money in a collection basket at church or give it to someone in need :) it's all good.

[coolspot31]

If my money went straight to God, then I might tithe. But then consider this: God doesn't really need money does He? Tithing at a local church near me has been taken to the point of greed, almost.
This one Church has so much money that they don't know what to do with it. They build huge huge facilities, and they're actually quite nice, but really they don't know what to do with it all, so they just keep buying more stuff.
The kids that go to the church all love me, and the parents of the church all hate me. Don't know what to think.

[rachewil15]

I don't, but my mom does.

[brinny]

I believe it's an exercise in faith and God does a work in our hearts when we give. There are many ways to give. It's a 'heart' thing. God knows what's in there. God bless all of you as you work this out and may blessings descend on each of you like a gentle rain.

[Babygurl_4_Christ]

Wen we dont tithe... we're keeping wut belongs 2 God, Tithing is givin bak 2 God wut he gave us....

[Maharg]

I don't earn anything at all at the moment because I am not working and am living off my savings until I get a job. I don't know what the appropriate things to do is in these circumstances, so I give whatever I have left at the end of each week and give money towards church events etc.

[VioletAngel]

I believe tithing is legalism, and should be avoided, unless God leads you to do that much. Gifts to your church, donations, volunteer service and such are fine to give as God leads you to do. Nothing wrong with exceeding the tithe, as long as it is within the cheerful giving that Jesus commended.

[feo]

I believe tithing is legalism, and should be avoided, unless God leads you to do that much. Gifts to your church, donations, volunteer service and such are fine to give as God leads you to do. Nothing wrong with exceeding the tithe, as long as it is within the cheerful giving that Jesus commended.

Giving to God is legalism?

Quite honestly, I believe everyone is called to give to our Lord...

[Angeldove97]

10% of what I have I give to help support the Church. ^_^

[ConstanceB]

:wave: Hey, Coolspot31 -- I kind of know how you feel: I'm 54 and usually the kids like me and the adults don't, too! (ha -- with a grain of truth) I don't think that tithing was for getting chandeliers and huge purple velvet drapes and a gargantuan screen because otherwise you can't see the speaker.

Tithing in the OT was complex. For one thing, the poor had a very different set of rules than those with a lot. For another thing, you didn't just tithe one tenth, and you didn't just tithe so the priests could buy stuff.

As I was taught, the sacrifices were (1) to "redeem" you -- and we are already redeemed through the blood of Christ. (2) received from a believer's hands and performed by the priest, providing a sweet odor to God and a meal to be shared with the priests -- a joyful time, not grim and self-righteous. (3) certainly not just money. "Bring the tithes into the storehouse so that my people will be fed" -- that's God speaking. They were tithing grain so that even in hard times (remember when Joseph saved enough for the seven years of famine?), there would be bread to feed God's people. Possibly, the equivalent today would be for the church to store provisions for Christians in hardship, for all in times of disaster, or for the poor that are always with us. Moneychanging in the Temple, you might recall, really irritated Jesus.

I realize I'm paraphrasing, and probably taking real interpretive liberties. I also tend to agree with Wendell Nance's advice about tithing time & resources instead of money: You tithe what you want to see increase. (You give time? You'll gain time. Not a bad deal, actually!) :angel: cb

[Waylon]

For a short time I was a Junior High pastor and got to help with the Junior High budget one time and gained a new perspective on tithing. A lot of the stuff we were doing was funded by tithers in the church. Kids were hearing the gospel because of the outreach programs funded by tithing. I don't think we have to tithe but it helps churches out a lot.

[loribee59]

:wave: Hey, Coolspot31 -- I kind of know how you feel: I'm 54 and usually the kids like me and the adults don't, too! (ha -- with a grain of truth) I don't think that tithing was for getting chandeliers and huge purple velvet drapes and a gargantuan screen because otherwise you can't see the speaker.

Tithing in the OT was complex. For one thing, the poor had a very different set of rules than those with a lot. For another thing, you didn't just tithe one tenth, and you didn't just tithe so the priests could buy stuff.

As I was taught, the sacrifices were (1) to "redeem" you -- and we are already redeemed through the blood of Christ. (2) received from a believer's hands and performed by the priest, providing a sweet odor to God and a meal to be shared with the priests -- a joyful time, not grim and self-righteous. (3) certainly not just money. "Bring the tithes into the storehouse so that my people will be fed" -- that's God speaking. They were tithing grain so that even in hard times (remember when Joseph saved enough for the seven years of famine?), there would be bread to feed God's people. Possibly, the equivalent today would be for the church to store provisions for Christians in hardship, for all in times of disaster, or for the poor that are always with us. Moneychanging in the Temple, you might recall, really irritated Jesus.

I realize I'm paraphrasing, and probably taking real interpretive liberties. I also tend to agree with Wendell Nance's advice about tithing time & resources instead of money: You tithe what you want to see increase. (You give time? You'll gain time. Not a bad deal, actually!) :angel: cb

:thumbsup: :amen:

[idathunkit]

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,



I've read through this entire thread regarding the question “to tithe or not to tithe” from beginning to end. I've seen a lot of good theological discussion and biblical interpretation on the topic of tithing. Most of it extremely anecdotal and some clearly studied…on both sides. Here's my take:



I believe that God will hold us accountable not just for what we know, but also for what we believe. In other words, if you believe you should tithe a certain amount for whatever reason, then you are accountable to God do just that. Anything else is an injustice to yourself and a dishonor to the Holy Spirit who guides you... assuming both tithers and non-tithers hear from God equally and are compelled to do what God has purposed in their hearts.



My personal story: My wife and I tithed on gross for many years...nearly 15K per year. We tithed for many reasons throughout our Christian tenure…beginning with the fact that we were both taught by our parents that tithing was the thing to do. Then we graduated into the "you can't out give God" theology. We began expecting returns on our "investment". After years of tithing under that premise, we began noticing that other non-tithers (in fact non believers) were being blessed as much as we were and others who give faithfully, believing and expecting in faith, continued to struggle financially an in other ways. At that point, we lost faith in “the system” and then began tithing out of a sense of duty...we were no longer freely giving. It was purely out of obligation...which of course is contrary to NT giving principles.



It was during this time that I was in the work force ministry at my church. One day a man came to me looking for help to find a job. His phone, electricity, rent, and various other bills were coming due. I told him to see the Pastor about getting emergency money from the church to take care of some basic needs and to fill his tank with gas so he could continue to look for work. Though he had never asked our church for money in the six months he'd been attending, his request was initially rejected for a variety of obscure reasons. I had to step in and advocate for him. This really disturbed me, because it was clear that this man was in need and I had to use my influence to get the church (Pastor) to respond. I told the Pastor I would pay for all his bills if the church could not. At that point, they finally cut him a check. It was then that I realized that the church was placing its own needs and agenda (ie building and expansion projects) before the needs of God's people. I remember thinking, "the people are the church, not the building…why hesitate?”



On two separate occasions I was blessed with the opportunity to fill the gas tank of this gentleman's van. In both cases, I felt an almost overwhelming sense of joy and satisfaction. I was meeting the needs of another person out of my abundance. I actually felt spiritually connected with this man and I barely new him. It was a great feeling! For the first time, I experienced the true spirit of NT giving.



I still attend the same church, but I no longer tithe. Since then, I've been looking for opportunities to bless others around me (church, work, community) by meeting their needs out of my abundance (money, time, counsel). It's been a spiritually intoxicating experience. I don't see this as charity giving. I simply feel as though I'm giving to these folks what God has already purposed for them...who am I to withhold from God and the needs of His people? I'm a steward only. Suddenly, the scripture about entertaining Angels is alive to me.



Hebrews 13:2 – “Be ready with a meal or a bed when it's needed. Why, some have extended hospitality to angels without ever knowing it.”



Matthew 22:36-39 - "Teacher, which command in God's Law is the most important?" Jesus said, ""Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.' 38This is the most important, the first on any list. 39But there is a second to set alongside it: "Love others as well as you love yourself."



The NT is clear about helping others in need, meeting the needs of the less fortunate out of our abundance…and FREELY giving as we are led to give. Fact is, the NT is chalk full of direction about how we are to treat others and about giving to meet the needs of others. There’s barely mention of tithing in the NT. Where it is mentioned, it does so in acknowledgement of the law and for purposes of reference; never is it commanded, as is giving.



I’ve begun to study the principles of tithing and giving and its meaning and purpose in my life. I primarily use my Bible, concordance and other Internet resources like this one. My understanding at this point is that tithing is an OT law and I am an NT being. Christ fulfilled the OT law, which means he completed it. There have been many comments in this forum like "you can't take one law w/o taking them all" as well as comments from those who strictly believe that “OT law still applies to the NT being”. I submit that both are correct in a sense. What did Christ mean when he said "...I have come to fulfill the law?”...I believe Jesus commissioned the OT law into NT grace. The Law is not complete without the Grace and the Grace could never have been established without the Law. The Law was a finite set of practices and principles. Grace as the infinite expression of God’s love to His people. You cannot have one w/o the other. They are complementary.



Some of you have said, "Well, how can a church (building) survive without the tithe. Well, that’s a whole other essay. Basically, I'm not convinced that the typical church of today is in the state in which God intended. Perhaps it's time for reform. Something Jesus is sure to address when he returns. Ultimately, I believe each man is obligated unto God to live as he believes the Spirit leads him. If not, he risks submitting himself (perhaps his soul) to the lowest form of hypocrisy.



Thanks for everyone's perspectives. I've really enjoyed this discussion thread.



In Christ,



Idathunkit

[matt225]

OF COURSE I DO!
with all God has blessed us with, its the least we can do.
Praise Him, for He has been good to us.

Matt

[squirrelz_15]

God only asks for 10%, that isn't that much, $0.10 out of every $1, not that much. Honestly, he blessed us w/ the ability to earn the money, or gave it to us in a gift in the 1st place. We should give back at least 10% of what he gave to us.If we do he promises to bless us even more!

[Hisbygrace]

Though we live in the New Testiment days, all of the Bible was written to us.
God only ask for 10%, but He gives 100%.

[Give'imGlory]

Idathunkit,

I totaly agree with you. I always had a problem with the tithing doctrine the church uses. I also studied this subjetc and agree that our obligation for our time under grace is to meet the needs of fellow christians that have a real need. I also understand that the church also needs to pay the bills and may even need to raise funds for projects. But telling people we must pay 10% of our income is unbiblical. We are to freely give what is in our hearts to give.

I have a friend who is a youth ministry assistant who is about my age and is married and has a baby about a year old now. His wife stays home with the baby and he goes out to work. Well he believes in tithing 10% but the problem is that while he was paying his tithes his rent was'nt getting paid. He barely had any money for food and eventually was evicted from his apartment after 3 months of not paying up. All because he felt obligued to pay his tithe. I have 2 children and alot of expenses. I was unable to help him out. But if I had the money to assist I would have done it. Instead I offered my help by taking him to the store for groceries (he had no car). And by giving him information on where he could apply for financial assistance. I mentioned the pastor but he did'nt want to tell him.

But anyway, your post was very good. Keep up the good work in your church. Peace.

[Give'imGlory]

Though we live in the New Testiment days, all of the Bible was written to us.
God only ask for 10%, but He gives 100%.

All the bible was written to us? Go back and read it again. You obviously missed alot of it.

[Give'imGlory]

The church uses the tithes for paying the rent,bills,events and activities.
I have no problem with that. And if they asked me for a donation for them I would gladly help and become a monthly supporter if I have the funds to do so. But do not shove a "you must pay up 10% of your income or you are robbing god doctrine" down my throat. Salvation is free. I do not have to pay a pennie to hear the gospel. I am not compelled to put money in the basket after the preaching and still pay more money in tithes. Does my salvation depend on wether I paid my tithes? NO! Will I be cursed if I dont pay? NO! And I have'nt yet! The church is a totoaly different entity than Israel. And both have different blessings at the end of it all!

Peace.

[BeforeThereWas]

Some say tithing is just for the old testament. Some say tithing applies today too. Why shouldn't we tithe? Why should we tithe?

It should be a personal matter, not something taught as a requirement for today. Also, the concept that we should tithe because of some elusive, subjective "principle" is also problematic. Those who believe that it's a "principle" we should follow today most generally ignore the equally valid principle of what was to be done with that portion of God's people, which was the meeting of needs, not real estate, buildings, bills, etc., all the operating costs and other things associated with organized religion.

Just to make sure there's no misunderstanding: buildings, bells, towers, spires, sidewalks, plush lawn care, etc., those are just things. They don't define who or what a group is in Christ. Having or not having a building doesn't define any group as being more or less spiritual than another. What makes the difference is the desire and active obedience (or lack thereof) to the word of God.

The spiritual in Christ say, Amen, and strive to live the examples and commands of God by, for example, ensuring that every last penny of the primary portion of their giving is used in accordance with the very word of God they claim to believe. That portion ALWAYS went for the meeting of needs, not real estate and buildings!

The not-so-spiritual outside of Christ say, "Look, our 'church' has many outreaches to those in need, and it also has bills to pay. There's nothing wrong with using 99% of our giving for the church upkeep and expenses, as long as something goes for meeting needs." How base and shallow. Paul once defined sin as "missing the mark," and this certainly falls well within that definition.

One shouldn't need a crash dummy to test which of the above is more in line with what Jesus said in John 14:15 (http://www.biblegateway.net/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=KJV&x=0&y=0&passage=John+14%3A15), "If ye love me, keep my commandments." Don't the examples He set forth in His word carry equal force as a direct command? Judge for yourself. The outcome always demonstrates the inner desires.

BTW

[BeforeThereWas]

The church uses the tithes for paying the rent,bills,events and activities. I have no problem with that.

Why don't you have a problem with that? Dont you know what the Bible teaches? Can you show me even ONE instance where the tithe was used for buildings, bills and/or real estate? If you study biblical tithing, you will see that 100% of the tithe went for NOTHING but the meeting of needs and festival celebrations before the Lord. Where did the word of God authorize a shift in God's priorities in our giving over to real estate and buildings? I'm not saying that we don't have a right to support such things in common, so long as that support is secondary in our giving.

BTW

[BeforeThereWas]

Let's take this one step further: Where do we see any command or example of wage earners required to tithe? Can anyone come up with such a reference from the scriptures? One will search in vain to try and find such a reference anywhere int he pages of scripture, but we read teachings and hear sermons about how the primary portion of our giving should go to organized religion, and its support. This clearly is antithetical to the examples and commands of scripture. The proof is in the reading. My challenge still stands. Where does scripture exemplify a shift in God's priority in our giving, in that the primary portion should go for meeting needs?

BTW

[Give'imGlory]

Why don't you have a problem with that? Dont you know what the Bible teaches? Can you show me even ONE instance where the tithe was used for buildings, bills and/or real estate? If you study biblical tithing, you will see that 100% of the tithe went for NOTHING but the meeting of needs and festival celebrations before the Lord. Where did the word of God authorize a shift in God's priorities in our giving over to real estate and buildings? I'm not saying that we don't have a right to support such things in common, so long as that support is secondary in our giving.

BTW


If you are going to quote me, then include the whole thing. Dont just quote 1 line! Do not pm me just to start an argument about a response!
You will get nothing else from me because I was very specific about what I think about this subject. Go back to my original post and read EVERYTHING I said. It's people like you who take parts of a verse and take it all out of proportion to make it sound good for your argument!:mad:

[WITNESS8]

Hmmm....I said that I do not tithe....The fact is I do not believe that Jesus taught tithing....Jesus taught giving all....If we limit ourselves to giving a tithe, then are we truly following Jesus?

[Give'imGlory]

Hmmm....I said that I do not tithe....The fact is I do not believe that Jesus taught tithing....Jesus taught giving all....If we limit ourselves to giving a tithe, then are we truly following Jesus?

Okay so then noone is "truly following Jesus". Because now-a-days noone can give everything and survive.

Try getting a career going and then give away all your money and follow jesus. You'll have nothing to pay bills or rent or food. See how long that last.

[Ric]

I answered no, because I go beyond a tithe. :)

[BeforeThereWas]

If you are going to quote me, then include the whole thing. Dont just quote 1 line! Do not pm me just to start an argument about a response!
You will get nothing else from me because I was very specific about what I think about this subject. Go back to my original post and read EVERYTHING I s