Tithing Resource
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The following articles, books, links, and audio downloads are presented by various authors from many differing denominational backgrounds and Christian perspectives of doctrine. For this reason the viewer should expect the possibility of variance in details of opinions expressed. Though different authors may have slight differences of opinion on aspects of doctrine, it is important to note the consistent message present here, which is that tithing is clearly NOT a New Covenant doctrine and has no place in the Church of Jesus Christ. I encourage you to be diligent in your pursuit of the truth; test all things with Scripture and be led by the Holy Spirit in your personal studies. God bless you!

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ARTICLES & E-BOOKS:


  • FREE Book by Russell E. Kelly - Here you can download the complete electronic copy of Russell Earl Kelly's amazing book, "Should The Church Teach Tithing," in Adobe Acrobat format. To download, just click the link and you will be taken to a download page. This book is provided by permission of the author. You can also purchase a copy of the book at Amazon.com by clicking here. Out of all the resources I have read concerning the tithe, this is the highest recommendation I can give. Should The Church Teach Tithing by Russell Earl Kelly is simply the most thorough writing ever produced on the study of this subject anywhere! Virtually no stone is left untouched in this amazing examination of the biblical tithe and its unmistakable contrast to that which is called "tithing" today - not to mention undeniable proof that tithing has no connection to the subject of New Covenant giving. If you research any book in regards to the subject of tithing, PLEASE read this one! You will not be disappointed!



  • Tithing Is Not A Christian Doctrine - by Russell Earl Kelly. This is an excellent introduction to the kind of topics of discussion Dr. Kelly's book on tithing examines completely. This summary engages some of the key arguments made by the pro-tithe camp and refutes them strongly with clear Scripture - LOTS OF SCRIPTURE. This is a MUST READ article!!!



  • Tithing Study - This page, authored by David A. Yeubanks, features an examination of the common church practice of tithing money to a church organization in comparison with the biblical, New Covenant example of grace giving. The article features a lengthy list of over 150 quotations from more than 85 respected sources on the subject - to illustrate that, among most seminary professors, theologians, Bible commentaries, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and also historical documents from the first few centuries of the early Church, tithing is NOT the biblical method that governed giving practices of the early Church. In the opinion of this author, tithing is harmful and spiritually unprofitable for the Church because it locks it into principles which have not been given or blessed by the Holy Spirit. This article and list of resource quotes is an eye opener. May God take us beyond merely calculating percentages to giving from a heart captivated by the love of Christ and motivated by the prompting of the Spirit as Scripture clearly teaches. This is a large web page, over 185k in size, so it may take several seconds to load completely.



  • Complete Tithing FAQ - This article covers 52 of the most commonly asked questions about tithing and offers clear, precise answers from Scripture. The FAQ is authored by Russell Earl Kelly (and each question is covered in thorough detail in his book, Should The Church Teach Tithing. This is an excellent resource for anyone who has a question concerning just about any aspect of tithing you ever wanted to know. Highly recommended!



  • To Tithe Or Not To Tithe - This is a great little article from a wonderful brother by the name of Jack Helser. Jack authors a number of "spiritually provocative" Christian articles and is also a music artist (you can visit his website at www.LordYouAre.com). This was one of the first articles I encountered when I first began my own studies concerning tithing. In fact, it was this very article that, indirectly, caused a stir among the leaders in the institutional church I attended at the time (long story). Since that day, quite a few years ago now, I've had the opportunity to connect and correspond with this brother and can tell you he has a sincere heart for the Lord, a passion for the truth, and he loves the body of Christ. I consider him a true brother and a trustworthy friend and wholly recommend his website.



  • The Tithe: Who's Robbing Who? - This is another great, short, article by Jack Helser (there are actually six articles in this series on tithing - available on his website). In this article Jack deals briefly with the subject of giving and tithing and also shares some wonderful insights into the concept of "house-churching." If you're interested in Jack's other articles on this subject, visit his website at www.LordYouAre.com.



  • Jews Do Not Tithe - Article by Ernest L. Martin from chapter three of his book "The Tithing Dilemma". This article explains a little-known fact by most Christians; that even Jews today do not tithe according to the obsolete biblical directive that was in force under the Old Covenant. Ernest's book is now also available online, completely free, here and also for purchase by clicking here.



  • Does He Thank That Servant & Guaranteed Failure In Stewardship - Both of these fantastic articles by Gary Carpenter have been combined here. Gary deals with the proper attitude Christians should have towards stewardship. This is really just a sample of some of the great insight this brother has into the area of dealing with finances from a truly biblical and spiritual perspective. I highly recommend Gary's teachings on this subject! Gary does not endorse many of the popular perspectives on stewardship (such as "sowing to reap more provisions" or "tithing"), but wholly endorses sound biblical teaching in this regard. He is a humble man of faith that is a true servant of the Lord. Gary is a brother who truly follows the example of the Apostle Paul who said, "I will very gladly spend and be spent for you..." While many charge tens and even hundreds of dollars for their teaching tapes and books, Gary literally charges nothing at all, but provides all at his own expense, in the hopes that God's people will be blessed and equipped for greater service. His entire ministry operates completely on faith in God and love for His people. He trusts that if God has truly called the ministry into existence than He will move on the hearts of those He wishes to help support it. Oh that more ministers today had this attitude of heart and expression of true faith in God's provision. If you need godly insight into dealing with finances, please take the time to check out Gary's website: www.garycarpenter.org.



  • Rethinking The Tithe - by Douglas Weaver. This brief, though concise, article on the subject of the tithe examines one of the greatly overlooked truths about tithing; that, even under the Law, it was intended to service the tither! Douglas takes the reader through a very well summarized description of the biblical tithe, it's former application, and its complete fulfillment in Jesus. He examines briefly why the typical arguments that have been traditionally used to support Christian tithing are weak at best, not to mention completely out of harmony with Scripture. Some excellent points are made here. This is a great article to forward to friends you may be discussing the subject with that will inspire a real challenge in the truth, without requiring someone to read an entire book. Highly recommended!



  • Straight Talk To Elders - by Frank Viola. On July 24th, 2001, Frank Viola was invited to speak to a group of 30 elders who were overseeing more than 10 congregations in Santiago, Chile. The one-day meeting began at 10:30 am and ended at 6:30 pm. Frank was asked to present his views on church leadership and to share whatever was on his heart with the men present. The elders only allowed five people who were not church leaders to attend this conference. After the day was finished, the five made these incisive remarks: "These men have never been spoken to like this before in their lives." "For 12 years we and many others in the churches they oversee have been controlled and oppressed. Today we felt we were being set free." One man who heard the message live likened it to two bombshells dropped on the elders' playground: Nagasaki and Hiroshima! With only a New Testament in hand and without the use of any notes, Frank delivered the message contained in this article. With only slight editing, what follows is the complete transcript. 95% of the text is the verbatim message. Therefore, it reads just as it was spoken. The entire event has been recently published in a new book available HERE at Frank's website. NOTE: This article is not expressly about tithing, however, the subject is addressed and therefore it is added for reference.



    EXCELLENT WEBSITE RESOURCES:


  • http://www.shouldthechurchteachtithing.com
  • http://tithe-debate.info
  • http://www.tekoapublishing.com/books/index.html
  • http://www.nomoretithing.org/
  • http://www.askelm.com/tithing/
  • http://www.biblebb.com/files/macqa/IA-tithe.htm
  • http://www.truthortradition.com/
  • http://www.garycarpenter.org/

    MORE TO COME...




    ONLINE DISCUSSION GROUPS:


  • http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Tithing-Study/



    DOWNLOADABLE & STREAMING AUDIO:
    NOTE: TruthForFree.com does not necessarily agree with all perspectives presented by the following authors.


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    The following audio messages are by Dr. Russell Earl Kelly, PhD.. This series includes 3 of a 6-tape set that Russell recorded in his home several years back. These audio messages are excerpts read directly from Russell's book "Should The Church Teach Tithing?" and are read by the author...

    • Russell E. Kelly - Should The Church Teach Tithing (Part 1) - STREAM | DOWNLOAD
    • Russell E. Kelly - Should The Church Teach Tithing (Part 2) - STREAM | DOWNLOAD
    • Russell E. Kelly - Should The Church Teach Tithing (Part 3) - STREAM | DOWNLOAD

    The following audio message is by Berean Bible Church (in India) - Outline of message here:


    The following audio message is by brother Robert of TheNarrowWay.net:


    The following audio message is by author/minister Gary Carpenter:

    • Gary Carpenter - The True Story of the Widow's Mite - STREAM

    The following audio messages are part of a series on tithing called "Giving: A Revelation of the Tithe" by Mike Williams:

    • Mike Williams - Giving: A Revelation of the Tithe (Tithing and the Law - 1) - STREAM | DOWNLOAD

    • Mike Williams - Giving: A Revelation of the Tithe (Tithing and the Law - 2) - STREAM | DOWNLOAD

    The following audio message is by Rev. Ron Bernier of Into The Light Ministries:





    HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BOOK RESOURCES:


    $22.95 - AmazonShould The Church Teach Tithing by Russell Earl Kelly, PhD. - It is no coincidence that I am placing this book at the top of the list for recommended tithe-research resources. Russell's book is simply the textbook of textbooks on the subject. Following a thorough examination of literally EVERY biblical text on tithing, Dr. Kelly concludes that the church would be best served spiritually by believing and applying better New Testament principles of giving. After discussing sound biblical reasons for Christians to replace tithing, he presents God's better principles of grace. Doctrines such as the New Testament concept of law and covenant and the priesthood of believers are presented as they affect tithing. Following several chapters that discuss disputed texts relating to pastoral support, this book traces the early development of church support as found in the Church Fathers before Nicea. This book leaves no question or objection about tithing unanswered and gives some very clear, biblical encouragement towards the kind of liberty and and release of the Spirit in our gatherings that may transpire when we embrace the Lord's New Covenant way of giving. Russell's book is a "must read" for any serious Bible student. Highly, highly, highly recommended! On a scale of 1 to 10 this book is an 11!

    Tithing: Low-Realm, Obsolete & Defunct by Matthew E. Narramore - A while back I was introduced to this great book by Matt Narramore through one of the Yahoo groups I subscribe to. Rather than going into great detail concerning the Old Covenant practice, Matt takes a simpler, focused approach to the subject of tithing by examining it primarily in light of the New Covenant. The book is for sale through most online booksellers (I purchased mine through Amazon.com) and Matt graciously offers the full edition free online for those who cannot afford a copy (It's so great to find guys like this that care more about the message than they do the money). Check out this great book!

    Tithing: God's Plan or Man's Demand by Tony Badillo - Yet another exciting book on the subject of tithing, unique to others in that it focuses more on the spiritual fulfilment of the Old Covenant legalism. While the book does not necessarily involve a technical examination of the Old Testament tithe, there are some noteworthy observations in this work that many will find encouraging and helpful. A common hesitation that tithers seem to have with respect to the idea that tithing holds no application for the New Testament Church is that non-tithers have sometimes failed to explain clearly how tithing was fulfilled in Christ. Jesus said that He did not come to destroy the Law but to fulfill it, and this is where Tony's work excels as this seems to be the sole focus of his book. Highly recommended book if you're interested more in the spiritual side of the argument rather than the technical examination. The book is only $11.80 + Shipping and is offered with a money back guarantee if you are not satisfied!

    Beyond Tithes And Offerings by Michael L. Webb, Mitchell T. Webb - This is another good book that deals quite thoroughly with the subject of tithing and compares traditional practice with Scriptural evidence. This book contains a wealth of information (especially detailing Old Covenant offerings and their typology) and is very easy to read. This book focuses intently upon New Covenant principles of giving and challenges pastors to take another honest look at the Word of God as it concerns this doctrine and it invites all Christians to re-examine their motives for giving, look again at the full context of Scripture, and move "beyond tithes and offerings" to live the grace of giving. This book encouraged, convicted and excited me to allow the Holy Spirit to work change and growth in my heart concerning how I approach giving. It was also one of the first books I read on the subject as I became aware that tithing is not a New Testament principle. I have also communicated with the authors and can attest that they are sincere men of God with a heart for God's people and for pastors. Most impacting to me was the expressed heart of the authors to mature beyond the mere "bless me" attitude so prevalent in much of the Church today and to move towards action as it involves helping those less fortunate in our communities and to get our minds re-focused upon the vital task of winning souls for Jesus. They actually started an effort to pay bills for impoverished saints through a program they founded independently called Mission Impossible. Awesome! If you're especially new to the study of tithing and are looking for a simpler, more elementary approach to understanding the basics of the doctrine and what the Bible clearly teaches about Christian practice concerning giving, this is a great starter book and highly recommended.

    No More Tithing by George W. Greene - This is another great book on the subject of tithing. Concise and easy to read in (virtually) one sitting. Most of the common pro-tithe arguments are addressed and examined in light of Scripture. This book does not discourage Christian giving in any way, but rather exhorts the reader to embrace the biblical concept of Spirit-led, love-motivated action in giving. Attention is called to one of the main New Covenant directives for giving found in 2 Corinthians 9:7, which says, "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." I corresponded with George briefly early on in my studies on the tithe. This is a very sincere brother in Christ who loves the Lord and demonstrates clearly that he is a trustworthy teacher in the body of Christ who holds fast to the teaching of Scripture. He also has a website containing a wealth of information on the subject and is even giving away copies of his book for free to those who write and express a need (proving yet again how so many of those who are rising up to oppose the unbiblical, modern-traditional view are more interested in the message of truth than they are in attempting to profit by it). You can view George's site here: http://www.nomoretithing.org.

    The Tithing Dilemma by (the late) Ernest L. Martin - This is a concise but excellent book on the subject of tithing. Ernest fully brings out a strong emphasis on the Lord's directive for tithing according to its Scriptural definition and why no minister of the truth has any right to change God's Word regarding His ordinances. The Tithing Dilemma is very blunt in its presentation but makes no apologies for the truth (and it is not unnecessarily harsh either). Find out why tithing to a local church (or for that matter receiving tithes of congregants) is not only unnecessary but a sin against proper biblical teaching! A strong proposal indeed! While some of those who love their tithing practices may have difficulty with this author's presentation, I sincerely believe Earnest Martin's examination is spot on and I would encourage students of the truth to be courageous and give this title a read. Highly recommended! RECENT NOTE: The entire book is now also available online for FREE by clicking here!

    Did The Apostle Paul Teach Tithing To The Church? by Johnathan Kithcart - Another great, very concise book on the subject that approaches things from a straighforward examination of the letters of Paul to see whether or not tithing would have fit into his teaching pattern to the Church. Johnathan, a former volunteer worker with Morris Cerullo Ministries, has spent over 20 years studying the Word of God through careful examination of the Greek and Hebrew text. That having been said, this book does not read like a textbook. It is very simple, easy to follow, using common sense, Scriptural logic. Of special note is the author's graceful attitude toward institutional pastors. This work is presented with grace and truth and may be a good "gentle" introductory title to give to pastor friends or those who tithe religiously with little or no comprehension of the biblical reasons why. Johnathan provides just enough meat here to get the reader chewing and wanting to study more. Great book!

    The Great Case of Tyths by Anthony Pearson - An extremely rare book (usually costing as much as $450) that was first published in 1657 and remained in print in through 1835, this influential piece is here in an 18th-century Irish edition—representing, with the prior London issue of the same year, its first reprinting since its initial burst of popularity. Pearson, a justice of the peace in Westmoreland who became a follower of George Fox, began his consideration of tithing prompted by the court actions directed against Quakers who chose not to pay tithes. The resulting treatise analyzes the legal, ethical, and religious arguments for and against forcible tithing, concluding that the practice is corrupt and in violation of Scriptural principles, as well as a distastefully Popish innovation! I have not had the opportunity yet to read this work (for obvious reasons). I will keep watching for the potential of a re-print and post that information here. Also, check various online bookstores for information about used copies of this rare title.

    $20.95 - Amazon.comSubtle Deception - by Lawrence Vanyi. Modern misguided evangelical empire-building at the institutional church level has systematically for the most part, attempted to replace Christianity with its own brand of organized religion. This subtle deception has taken more than 1,700 years to develop and permeate society and typical Christian thought, but develop well it has… So well, in fact, that even some of the greatest ministry personalities of our time have made the mistake of thinking that Christianity and organized religion are one and the same…but they are not. What's wrong with organized religion you say? Did you suppose that's what Christianity was all about? Did you suppose that its church building origins are biblical? And what's the fuss anyway? Does it really matter if the Lord's people are more "organizationally" or "institutionally" minded than they are "relationally" minded? This book by Larry (with parts co-authored by yours truly, David Yeubanks, examines some common misconceptions about modern-day churchianity and, specifically, the subject of tithing, money and the ministry.

    Click for an added note about this book


    MORE TO BE ADDED SOON!




    CONTACT A THEOLOGIAN:


    When I began my research on the subject of tithing, I made an honest attempt to contact a number of various authors who had written on the subject (from both sides of the issue). I also contacted theologians, scholars, rabbis, and various other teachers experienced in the comprehension of Greek and Hebrew texts of the Bible. This section of the tithing resource page will provide contact information to real theologians that you can contact yourself with questions! These are scholars that I have come to trust after house of personal examination of various works and even conversations with these individuals. I would like to thank the following individuals for allowing me to post their contact information and for making themselves available for this discussion. I have only just begun posting information on this exclusive page so this list will grow in the weeks and months ahead. God bless you as you study.


    Russell Earl Kelly, Ph. D.
    6610 Skyview Dr SE
    Acworth, Ga 30101-6512
    Phone: 770-974-4756
    E-Mail: russkellyphd@earthlink.net
    Website: www.shouldthechurchteachtithing.com


    MORE TO COME!

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