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STUDY REFERENCES & QUOTES
(Subject: Tithing)
The Following List of
Reference Quotes Present - Churches, Bible Colleges, Bible Commentaries,
Dictionaries, Encyclopedias, Respected Authors & Ministries that DO NOT
Teach Monetary Tithing as a Mandate or Clear Doctrine of Scripture Applicable
to the Church. It is Recommended That You Read the
Forward/Introduction By David A. Yeubanks to
Understand the Intended Purpose of This Site. God Bless You. You can download the full PDF version of this
list of quotes (great for easier printing)
by clicking this link: TithingReferences(TruthForFree.com).pdf
[Note:
Comments in Italics & Brackets are my own - David A. Yeubanks - unless stated otherwise]
Much of the information on this webpage is also available on
your Internet-capable Mobile Phone or Palm Pilot. Just point your device to the
following URL: http://tagtag.com/tithe
PLEASE
CLICK HERE
TO READ THE FORWARD/INTRODUCTION
By David A. Yeubanks
CLICK HERE IF YOU WOULD ALSO LIKE TO DOWNLOAD RUSS
KELLY'S FREE BOOK ON TITHING!
- The Encyclopedia
"It
(tithing) was not practised in the early Christian
church but gradually became common (in the Roman Catholic church in western
Europe) by the 6th Century. The Council of Tours in 567 and the 2nd
Council of Macon in 585 advocated tithing. Made obligatory by civil law in the
Carolingian empire in 765 and in
- Hasting’s Dictionary of the
It
is admitted universally that the payment of tithes or the tenths of
possessions, for sacred purposes did not find a place within the Christian Church
during the age covered by the apostles and their immediate successors.
- The Encyclopedia Britannica (s.v. "tithing"):
The Christian Church depended at
first on voluntary gifts from its members
- Jake Barnett - Wisdom and Wealth, p.192):
Our proclivity to teach tithing is just one aspect of our
tendency to prefer rules to freedom. But the New Testament concept of giving is
so beautiful that it is difficult to understand why we resort to legalism. It
appears that we feel that God made a mistake in this area, and fear that our
churches would suffer financial difficulty if we followed the Biblical pattern…
- Catholic Encyclopedia of 1912
p. 259 (s.v. “tithe”):
In the beginning [provision] was
supplied by the spontaneous support of the faithful. In the course of time,
however, as the Church expanded and various institutions arose, it became
necessary to make laws which would insure the proper and permanent support of
the clergy. The payment of tithes was adopted from the Old Law, and early
writers speak of it as a divine ordinance and an obligation of the conscience.
The earliest positive legislation on the subject seems to be contained in the
letter of the bishops assembled at
- The New Catholic Encyclopedia (s.v. “tithe”):
The
early Church had no tithing system ... it was not that no need of supporting
the Church existed or was recognized, but rather that other means appeared to
suffice.
The New Catholic Encyclopedia
(p.12):
"In the Deuteromic code the tithe
is limited to grain. wine and oil (Deu. 12:6, 11, 17; 14:22). These texts more or less equate
the tithe with other ritual offerings and sacrifices." [223] "No law
of tithing is found in the New Testament, although the principle of church support
is laid down in Matt. 10:10 (see also Luke 10:7) and echoed in 1 Corinthians
9:13-14."
- The New Advent Catholic
Encyclopedia (re: tithing history):
In the Christian Church, as those who serve the
altar should live by the altar (1 Cor., ix, 13), provision
of some kind had necessarily to be made for the sacred ministers. In the beginning this was supplied by the
spontaneous offerings of the faithful.
[Please note that according to Catholic sources based on
historical documentation, the saints including any leadership were supported
solely by freewill giving, not the tithe, from the time of the Apostles and for
about 500 years, until the Catholic church reinstituted it. They in fact became
the appointed priesthood and in many places that were controlled by the
Catholic church. It became a state or
provincial law that tithing was required. – Additional Comments by Vicki Dillen of the Seek God website]
- New Bible Commentary,
Inter-Varsity Fellowship, p. 222:
[Acts
18:1-4] It was
regarded as proper for a rabbi to practice a manual occupation so as not to
make monetary profit out of his sacred teaching.
[1 Thess. 2:9] This policy [working night and day] not only reflected a
desire to be financially independent of those among whom they ministered, but it
also marked them off from the ordinary religious traffickers of the day, and
showed the converts a good example.
[2 Cor. 11:8] Paul is really indicating that he did not receive wages at
all for preaching the gospel. If what was given him for his support by other
churches was to be regarded as ‘earnings,' then he had in effect ‘robbed' them
since the service given was not to them but to the Corinthians.
[Heb.
7:18] Also, the
priesthood was so fundamental to the Old Covenant between God and His people
(the whole relationship was constituted in dependence upon its ministry), that
any change in the order of priesthood must of necessity imply and involve a
change in the whole constitution; i.e. it implies nothing less than an
accompanying new, and indeed better, covenant.
It
cannot be affirmed that the Old Testament law of tithes is binding on the
Christian Church...
- Spiros Zodhiates,
Th. D. - Key Word Study Bible (comments on Malachi 3:7-15, p.1173):
This
passage is often used by those who advocate "storehouse tithing";
that is, bringing the "tithe" into God's storehouse (the local
church), rather than giving it anywhere else. They suggest that gifts to
ministries other than the local church should be above the "tithe."
Certainly the "storehouse" in Malachi represents the temple or a
building in the temple complex. However, the OT "tithe" or
"tenth" cannot be reasonably equated with ten percent of gross salary
or wages which most earn today. Above all, giving should be a matter between
the Holy Spirit and the believer, not a regulation. The "tithe" may
be an adequate guide for determining how much some people could give (indeed,
for many in a prosperous society, it is probably an inadequate level), but the
amount of giving must be a personal decision. The Apostle Paul wrote that God
examines the motives for the giving, not the amount (2 Corinthians 9:7).
- C. I. Scofield
- Scofield Reference Bible:
2
Corinthians 8 and 9, "In contrast with the law, which imposed giving as a divine
requirement, Christian giving is voluntary, and a test of sincerity and love.
- Wycliffe Bible Dictionary of
Theology (s.v. "tithe"):
The
silence of the NT writers, particularly Paul, regarding the present validity of
the tithe can be explained only on the ground that the dispensation of grace
has no more place for a law of tithing than it has for a law on circumcision.
- David Dunlap – Biblical Tithing
(plymouthbrethren.org):
What, then, does the Old Testament teach about tithing? The
Bible does not command tithing in Genesis. Abel, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, and
others were not commanded to tithe, but all brought free-will thank offerings
to the Lord. “And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the
fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. And Abel, he also brought of the
firstlings of his flock” (Gen. 4:3-4). This was a free-will offering; there was
no command to offer, nor is there a command concerning the percentage of
giving, nor were there requirements, amounts, stipulations, and frequency
commanded concerning this offering. In Genesis 8:15-20, after the flood
subsides, Noah immediately makes plans to offer a sacrifice unto the Lord. “And
Noah builded an altar unto the Lord; and took of
every clean beast, and every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the
altar” (Gen. 8:20). Noah offered a voluntary, spontaneous, free-will offering
from out of the overflow of his heart. Again there is no standard, command, or
percentage required by God. From the beginning of biblical history, free-will
sacrifice appears to be the pattern of giving for the people of God.
David Dunlap – Biblical Tithing & God’s Plan For Giving
Today (plymouthbrethren.org):
Generosity has been said to be the grace of kings. In a
former day only kings could extend such a grace, yet today generosity and a
willing heart is God’s plan for giving. Under grace God has not asked the
Christian to merely give a tenth of his income. If a Christian wanted to follow
the example of
- Chafer, Lewis Sperry, Major
Bible Themes, Revised, rev. John Walvoord (
In
matters pertaining to the giving of money, the grace principle involves the
believer's recognition of God's sovereign authority over all that the Christian
is and has, and contrasts with the Old Testament legal system of tithing which
was in force as a part of the law until the law was done away with (John
1:16-17; Rom. 6:14; 7:1-6; 2 Cor. 3:1-18; Gal.
3:19-25; 5:18; Eph. 2:15; Col. 2:14). Though certain principles of the law were
carried forward and restated under grace, tithing, like Sabbath observance, is
never imposed on the believer in this dispensation. Since the Lord's Day
superseded the legal Sabbath and is adapted to the principles of grace as the
Sabbath could not be, so tithing has been superseded by a new system of giving
which is adapted to the teachings of grace, as tithing could not be.
C.
Their giving was not by commandment [1 Cor. 8:8], nor
of necessity [2 Cor. 9:7]. Under the law, a tenth was
commanded and its payment was a necessity; under grace, God is not seeking the
gift, but an expression of devotion from the giver. Under grace no law is
imposed and no proportion to be given is stipulated, and, while it is true that
God works in the yielded heart both to will and to do His good pleasure (Phil.
2:13), He finds pleasure only in that gift which is given cheerfully, or more
literally, "hilariously" (2 Cor. 9:7)....
D. The
early Christians, first of all, gave themselves. Acceptable giving is preceded
by a complete giving of oneself (2 Cor. 8:5). This
suggests the important truth that giving under grace, like giving under the
law, is limited to a certain class of people. Tithing was never imposed by God
on any other than the nation
F. God
sustains the giver. God will sustain grace-giving with limitless temporal
resources (2 Cor. 9:8-10; Luke
- Mike Oppenheimer, Let Us
Reason:
The
Pharisees said they have faith but they were more interested in the money, in
fact Jesus said: “Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, also heard all these
things, and they derided Him.” ( so did Judas John 12:5-6). Then Jesus scolded
them saying “what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight
of God,” and He then summed it up by giving another parable--the rich man and
Lazarus. The poor man entered where the faithful were, finding rest in
Abraham's bosom but the rich man entered torment. The rich man was punished,
not because he was rich but because he lived for self, he had no compassion for
poor Lazarus whom he walked by and ignored each day as he sat by his gate.
The
weightier matters of the law, what are they? The Christians are to focus on
giving to those in need. “And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as
thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these” (Mk.
You'll
notice that those promoters of tithing will always use the Old covenant law to
justify their teaching this method of blessing. What the prosperity teachers do
is bring people out from grace and under law. Under the New Testament covenant
there is no specific amount required to give, you determine the amount you can
freely give. “Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not
grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
- Dana, H. E., The New Testament
World, 3rd. ed., rev. (Nashville: Broadman,
1937), 149, 217, 221:
Among
the Jews professional life was limited. The one widely extensive profession was
that of rabbi, if profession it might be called, for most rabbis followed some
trade or secular pursuit for a livelihood, while devoting all the time possible
to the study and teaching of the law. . . . Every Jewish boy was expected to
learn some trade. Rabbinic tradition declared that "whoever does not teach
his son a trade is as if he brought him up to be a robber" (p. 149).
The
prevalent use of tents [by travelers] made the tent-making trade a lucrative
occupation. One belonging to the same trade-guild, religious cult, or having
any other personal relationship to any resident of the locality could nearly
always find welcome more or less genuine in a private home. . . . This was the
prevailing manner in which the first Christian missionaries were provided for,
though likely the entertainment was tendered them without cost (cf. 2 John
10-11; 3 John 5-8) (p. 221).
- C. F. Pfeiffer and E. F.
Harrison - Wycliffe Bible Commentary:
[WBC;
1 Cor. 16:2] "By him" is probably a reference to the home;
giving was to be private giving. . . . This system would revolutionize present
church customs! Paul’s carefulness in money matters should be noted. He never
appealed for money for himself and did not even desire to handle money for
others if there could be the slightest question about it.
[WBC;
Matt. 10:8-9] These
ministrations were to be performed freely, without charge, for their authority
had been received in this manner. These instructions apply only to this
specific mission of limited duration.
[WBC;
Acts 18:1-4] It was
customary for Jewish rabbis not to receive pay for their teaching, and
therefore, Paul, who had been raised as a rabbi, had learned the trade of tent-making.
[WBC;
Acts 20:34] Paul
reminded the Ephesians of his custom of making tents not only to support
himself but to provide for the needs of others with him. He quoted a saying of
the Lord which is not recorded in any of the Gospels, about the blessedness of
giving. . . . The main objective of giving in the early church was to provide
for the needs of the poor brothers rather than to support the preaching of the
gospel as is the case today.
- Rev. Paul Winslow of
In the
New Testament there is no mention of believers paying tithes, nor any command
that they do so. This makes sense since the Body of Christ is a spiritual
kingdom, not connected to any land at all, but spread throughout the whole
world, its members being neither Jew nor Greek but a new race of people in
Christ Jesus. Therefore, it makes no sense for believers to pay a tithe which
was largely used in the Old Testament for maintaining a system of priests,
since all believers are priests and do not need a go-between themselves and
God. Actually, believers are to consider that all they own and receive
economically belongs to God. For example, we are told we are not our own but
are bought with a price. Further, we are told that we are stewards of all that
God has given us, and that He has the right to tell us what to do with our
time, resources, income, etc. It may be advantageous for a New Testament
believer to decide to give the Lord a percentage of his income as a sort of
guide or planned program for giving, and that percentage might be 10%. But such
a plan or percentage should be arrived at through prayer with the Lord Himself,
rather than an automatic acceptance of the Old Testament tithe. Furthermore,
New Testament truth makes it very clear that all believers are responsible to
care for widows and orphans and to extend hospitality to strangers in whatever
age or social economic structure they live in. Obviously, this varies greatly
depending on the individual circumstances of a Christian. At one point he might
be a slave and totally unable to do much in this area, and at other times a
Christian may have the freedom and capacity to do a great deal in this area. In
conclusion, it is my prayer that the Lord will guide each person in his
stewardship of resources which the Most High God has graciously provided us.
Valley
Bible
Our
goal is for the Lord Jesus to be Lord of our church body, and to have Him directing
VBC the way He chooses. As a result,
Pastor
Jim Catlin of
In
fact, we NEVER mention the subject [of tithing]
in the Body! However, we have talked about how to handle the resources that God
has entrusted to us in a righteous way. As an example of where we are a little
'different' on that account is illustrated in our recommendations regarding
monthly bill paying. Many Christian financial advisors say that you should
'give to God first,' you know, the idea of first fruits, and then you pay off
everyone else. Well, we humbly disagree because we believe that it is Biblical
to pay for those things that you already enjoyed the benefit from that month
like electricity, gas, water, sewer, basically retire your 'monthly debt', and
then give to God. Would it be right to make your payment to God while your
neighbor who offered you a service or a product in advance, trusting that you
would reimburse them, goes unpaid? [E.g. Psalm
37:21: "The wicked borrow, and do not pay back..."; Romans 13:7 -
"Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due;
custom to whom custom..."; etc.] I know. It is a minor point,
but we are not very 'orthodox' when it comes to money matters. But as long as
we are Biblical, to the best of our humble intentions, we don't mind if we
don't go with the flow. One other 'unorthodoxy' is our lack of a membership
list. In reality, no one is a member of our church. If God leads you here, then
fine. If He leads you to become involved, fine. If you leave to serve Him in
another place, fine. But a membership list tends to put pressure on the Body to
perform. It says, "Hey, you're a member so you better act like a
member." Sadly, that usually translates into the obligation to give. And
sadder still, into an obligation to give 10% 'because it's Biblical'. Sigh.
Okay, one more 'unorthodoxy': we don't keep records of giving. Now we're
getting radical! I haven't run across ANY church that does this yet. Our
reasoning is self preserving (from a spiritual warfare perspective): who could
handle knowing what people give? Who could handle the temptation to condemn
someone who is affluent but gives a paltry sum? Who could handle the temptation
to make a saint out of the widow who outgives the
majority of the Body because her amount is so sacrificial? Not me. And anyway,
what do you legitimately need the information for? Not the IRS. We have gone
through that before, and all we are compelled to do is issue receipts for any
lump sum donations above $200 (or is it $250?). We write the receipt and only
one person knows who and how much and then we organizationally 'forget' all
about it. I've told this to many church administrators and they shake their
head in disbelief! To this date, no one in leadership, not the pastors or the
elders, knows who gives how much. And we LOVE it that way. 'Nuff
about church finances. What a waste of attention span, wrestling over church
finances, when we worship a God of INFINITE resources. The
- Ray C. Stedman - The Christian
& His Possessions [sermon excerpt] (emphasis added):
Giving
is not only to be persistent and personal and premeditated, but it is to be
proportionate, "as he may prosper." Here is the New Testament
replacement for the Old Testament tithe. In the Old Testament, believers
were asked to give 10% of their income, a designated proportion, to the work of
God. But, remember, that is the kindergarten practice of giving. Men had to be
told how much to give, specifically; it was put on a legal basis. When you come
into the New Testament you do not find the tithe carried forward. But
proportionate giving is definitely taught. All that Paul is saying here is that
as increase in prosperity comes there should be a corresponding increase in
proportion. Not simply in the amount, it is not to be any longer 10%, but the
proportion increases as God has prospered. Do not forget that in the New
Testament we learn that the basis of our giving is that we owe everything to
God. We simply owe everything to him. The carnal, careless Christian who really
cares little about the Lordship of Jesus Christ snaps his finger at that kind
of truth and goes out and does as he pleases anyway. But the man or woman, the
boy or the girl, who has been to the cross and has been broken, who wants to
please God in all that he does, is ready to walk in glad obedience to the
Lordship of Christ, he will take time to consider what God has done for him and
to calculate what he can do in response to the goodness and the blessing of
God. That is to be the basis of giving. Now you can see that if we take
this seriously it is going to make some demands upon us. It is going to change
our habits. But in the light of the blessings that we receive from Jesus Christ
we must not view these demands as burdens, but as privileges, for such they
are.
- The Billy Graham Evangelistic
Association:
…the
question as to whether to tithe from one's net or gross income is not answered
in Scripture, nor is the question of whether to give it all to the local church
or to include other ministries. We feel that such decisions should be based on
personal conviction… It (tithing) is not mentioned in the New Testament
except where it is describing Old Testament practices or in the Gospels where
Jesus is addressing people who were under the Old Testament law. Note Jesus'
comments to the Pharisees in Luke 11:42… A New Testament teaching on giving
which may be helpful to you is found in 1 Corinthians 16:2: "On the first
day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping
with his income." This passage brings out four points: we should give
individually, regularly, methodically, and proportionately. The matter of your
giving is between you and God, and He always takes into account our
circumstances. He knows when they are beyond our power to direct and control.
The important thing is that we see giving as a privilege and not a burden. It
should not be out of a sense of duty, but rather out of love for the Lord and a
desire to see His kingdom advanced. Second Corinthians 9:6-7 says: ‘Remember
this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows
generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided
in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a
cheerful giver.’ The deeper question, you see, is this: What has priority in
our lives? Is Christ really first--or do we put ourselves and our own desires
first? Make sure Christ is first in your life, and then ask Him to guide you.
- David Wilkerson - The Bountiful
Servant (sermon excerpt -
I must
warn you: If you focus on percentages with God, you might as well keep your
money. God does not honor any gift that is not given in joy -- willingly, out
of a heart overflowing with love! If you give only because you believe it is
commanded -- or if you're always wondering, "Is tithing a New Testament
concept, or just Old Testament?" -- your heart-attitude is all wrong! If
you give 10 percent because the pastor asks it of you, that is wrong also. None
of this gets to the issue -- to the heart of what it means to give! One man
told me, "After I give my 10 percent, I can do whatever I please with the
rest. And I expect God to bless me as He promised -- because I gave my
tithe!" No! Many are able to give more than a tithe. And God wants us to
give as we are able -- with generosity! There is no place for stinginess among
God's people.
David
Wilkerson – Letter To Friends of the
The Holy Spirit has laid on my heart something I need to share
with you. It is a loving warning from the very heart of Jesus, who
said: Take heed, and beware of covetousness (Luke
- R.C.H. Lenski
- The Interpretation of I and II Corinthians (p. 1170-1172) emphasis added:
The
sowing is ever done on one idea alone, on the idea of blessings - blessings, praises
to God; blessings, benefactions to men; return blessings to ourselves.
On no other basis or principle does this sower
operate. On this basis he reaps. He reaps all the blessings TO GOD and all
those TO MEN, and he reaps THE RETURN BLESSINGS THAT GOD POURS OUT ON HIM… The
Catholic exegesis finds work-righteousness here, namely the harvest as a reward
of merit. But no man ever earned a harvest. God makes seed, soil, sunshine,
growth, ripening, and even the brain and the hand to place the seed into the
soil and to bring the increase home… Without a verb and with none to be
supplied Paul adds: Each one just as he has chosen for himself in advance in
his heart, not from grief or from compulsion. The verb is the perfect middle,
its voice brings out the idea that the person choosed
freely what he wants and would like to have for himself, whether he wants a
sparing return or one that is running over with all kinds of blessings. 'In
Advance,' fits the idea of sowing which is always in advance of the harvest…
The two phrases point to source. In the whole matter of Christian giving
nothing is EVER to be done from grief; no one is to be sorry about letting
anything pass out of his hands... Nothing is ever to be given 'from
compulsion,' from a feeling that one is forced to give, that he is being
robbed... Paul wants nothing but VOLUNTARY gifts for his great collection. He
here sets forth voluntariness as being the only true motive and principle of
Christian giving. It actuated the apostolic church (Acts 2:44,45; 4:22); it
has ever distinguished true Christian giving. A large amount of giving has been
vitiated by not being free and voluntary. A large number have had no faith or
too little faith in complete voluntariness. They fear that this will not bring
the needed and the desired sums. So they devise substitutes, all kinds of systems,
schemes, and methods that seem to promise more than the giver's own entirely
free volition. Instead of depending wholly on such volition and stimulating it
by means of pure gospel motivation as Paul does here, they use a little or
great deal of legalism which acts as pressure, or they stoop to worldly, often
rankly worldly, methods. So Christian voluntariness declines more and more. The
odor of legalism and of worldliness makes the 'gifts' so obtained nauseating in
the nostrils of God. The harvest of real blessings is lost… All legalism in
giving or securing gifts is Romanistic. No one has
yet surpassed Rome in this direction. Many who think they hate Rome yet imitate
Rome, and they should give Rome due credit although they fail to do this.
Tithing is Jewish. Applying a little Christian varnish changes nothing. Paul
was reared as a Jew. If tithing could have been Christianized, the man who
could and would have done it was Paul, and no better opportunity offered itself
than this great collection which he planned for all his churches
simultaneously. Paul shunned tithing. All the apostles shunned it. Not one word
of Jesus favors it. His very mention of tithing is severely derogatory (Mat.
23:23; Luke 11:42; 18:12). The only other mention of it in the New Testament is
purely historical (Heb. 7:5-9). Is this not enough? More than enough! 'Each one
just as he has chosen for himself in heart!'
R.C.H.
Lenski - The Interpretation of St. Matthew's Gospel
(p.907-909):
The
scribes and the Pharisees were rigorists when it came to the easy features of
the Jewish regulations. They demand that tithes be paid of even the small
flavoring herbs of which a family might grow a few such as mint, dill, and
cumin (obsolete: cummin), the later being like anise
seed but larger and used to a greater extent. But they dismiss, as needing no
attention at all, the real moral, spiritual parts of the law; and here Jesus
again mentions three points [justice, mercy and
faithfulness]... All three refer to our relation to our fellow-men.
All three are both virtues of the heart and acts that grow out of these
virtues. All three are achieved by our covenant relation to Yahweh Eloheka (Mat. 22:37) [the Lord
God to whom we are to love with all of our heart, soul and mind],
who by means of His covenant grace plants the law into our inward parts (Jer. 31:33) [writing His laws
upon our hearts]. These parts of the law are weightier, essential,
even as they are valid for all men and for the church of all times, compared
with the Levitical regulation of tithing which was
intended for the Jews alone, especially the tithing of mere flavoring herbs. [Lenski continues by
pointing out that one of the outstanding facts is that the Gospels mention
tithing only a few times; three times in condemnation of the Pharisees - all
three he comments to be "scathing in their severity" - and the
other references, found in Hebrews 7:5-9 are identified as "merely
historical".] All though all of the apostles were originally Jews,
reared in tithing, with not one word did any one of them even intimate that in
the new covenant the Christians might find tithing a helpful method of making
their contributions to the work of the church. This strong negative is
immensely re-enforced by the totally different method suggested by Paul when called
on the churches for a great offering, 1 Cor. 16:1,
etc.; 2 Cor. 8:4, etc. Exegetically and thus
dogmatically and ethically the New Testament is against tithing as a regulation
in the new covenant. Desire for more money also for more money in the church
and for the church must not blind our eyes to the ways employed for getting
more money… Jesus does not want to be misunderstood. The new covenant has not
yet been inaugurated, he as well as all his hearers are still under the old
covenant, and for that God himself had appointed tithing (Lev. 27:30, etc.;
Num. 18:21; Deut. 12:6; 12:22-27). If that tithing be done conscientiously,
even in little things, Jesus would not forbid it to a Jew. Jesus safeguards
against perversions when he adds: "These it was necessary to do and those
not to dismiss."
R.C.H.
Lenski - The Active Church Member (p. 161-164) emphasis added:
God has
given us His divine Law, and the spirit of Christ, which is the spirit of faith
and love, freely uses God’s Law as a regulator of the Christian life. As
Christians, however, we are under the Gospel, and that means that with
faith and love we voluntarily obey the Lord and seek to do His holy will.
Legalism is the name for all spurious [plausible
but false] law in the church. It is both the setting up of man-made
laws in the church, and any obedience to such laws. Jesus declares: "In
vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men"
(Matthew 15:9). And St. Paul warns us: "Ye are bought with a price; be ye
not the servants of men" (1 Corinthians 7:23). No church has a right to
make laws by which bind its members; and no member has a right to obey such
laws, and to allow his conscience to be thus bound. Both the church and the
church member are legalists when they operate their church activities this way.
The state may legislate; not, however, the church... Just as the Gospel
alone rules in our hearts, so Gospel methods, or evangelical methods, should
alone be used in our church activities. These methods use the power of faith
and love alone, and no outward force. Hence these methods have the mark of
Gospel freedom about them. The church member does what he does, of free
will, gladly, gratefully, as a privilege. That is the evangelical method…
The evangelical Christian goes to church from love of Christ, His Word, and
worship. Only where the Lord sees this in the heart is He pleased… …no mere
outward performance satisfies the Lord, least of all doing what the Lord has
nowhere Himself commanded. And worst of all, to try to buy His favor is to
insult His blessed grace, through which alone His savings gifts can be made
ours. Legalistic methods look especially promising when it comes to getting
money for the church… Why not impose a tax on the members, say a flat tax of so
much per head, or a tax according to the property of the members? Would not
that insure the sum desired far beyond the evangelical method of voluntary
Christian giving?… The trouble is, that though the money itself might be secured
in such a legalistic way, the Lord has no use for it. The only money He will
accept must come as a true offering made unto Him by willing hearts in faith
and love. Such offerings can be gathered only by using evangelical methods,
never by working legalistic ones.
R.C.H.
Lenski - The Active Church Member (p. 175) emphasis added:
Wrong
methods always tend to corrupt right principles, and thus hinder the blessings
we ought to receive. Right methods support true principles, help to show
how beneficial they are, and thus win the approval and blessing of the Lord.
- Phil Enlow
(Midnight Cry Ministries) - "What About Tithing?":
Many of
our people give far more than 10% yet we don't even pass an offering plate and
rarely is the subject mentioned. God has blessed us abundantly over the years
and though we are small, we are debt free and supporting a worldwide outreach
without resorting to begging. We give God the glory! ...Although it is often
said in a trite way it is still true that we cannot outgive
God. When believers learn to give to God in real faith they enter into an area
of grace and blessing that will spiritually strengthen them and make them a
blessing. Christians are cheating themselves in this and in many other areas
when they fail to learn the Lord's ways and enjoy the unsearchable riches of
His grace and the benefits of His great covenant.
- William MacDonald - The
Believer's Bible Commentary:
[BBC;
Malachi 3:8-10 - emphasis added]
The NT
teaches believers to give systematically, liberally, cheerfully, and as the
Lord has prospered them, that is, proportionately. But no mention is made of
tithing..."
[BBC;
2 Corinthians 9:5 - emphasis added]
There
was no thought that these funds should be wrung out of the saints as by
extortion but that it should be a manifestation of their generosity, given
through their own free will.
[BBC;
2 Corinthians 9:7]
Each on
is to give as he purposes in his heart. It will be necessary for him to
consider what is necessary for his own immediate needs. He will have to think
of just obligations which he will incur in the course of normal life. But then
above that, he should think of the needs of his fellow Christians, and of the
claims of Christ upon him. Taking all these considerations into view, he should
give not grudgingly or of necessity. It is possible to give and yet not be
happy about it. It is also possible to give under the pressure of emotional
appeals or public ambarrassment. None of these things
will do. God loves a cheerful giver. It has often been pointed out that our
word hilarious comes from the word translated cheerful (hilarion).
[BBC;
Ephesians 2:15 - emphasis added]
The
church is new in the sense that it is a kind of organism that never
existed before. It is important to see this. The NT church is not a
continuation of the Israel of the OT. It is something entirely distinct
from anything that has preceded it or that will ever follow it.
[BBC;
Colossians 2:14 - emphasis added]
Paul
now goes on to describe something else that was included in the work of Christ.
Having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was
contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the
cross. The handwriting of requirements that was against us describes the law.
In a sense, the Ten Commandments were against us, condemning us because we did
not keep them perfectly. But the Apostle is thinking not only about the Ten
Commandments, but also about the ceremonial law that was given to Israel. In
the ceremonial law, there were all kinds of commandments with regard to holy
days, foods, and other religious rituals [e.g.
circumcision, sacrifices, tithing, etc.]. These were all a part of
the prescribed religion of the Jews. They pointed forward to the coming of the Lord
Jesus. They were shadows of His Person and His work. In His death on the cross,
He took all this out of the way, nailing it to the cross and cancelling it
as a bill is cancelled when the debt is paid.
- From the article "Thanks
Be To God For A Nusiance - Martin Luther" emphasis added:
Luther
loathed, too, the globalist tendencies he saw in the
Church, and perceived money and capital transactions as fundamentally inhuman,
(‘he who touches money, touches dirt’) realizing profit at the expense of human
beings. He thought men might create an economic system, which would preserve
God's Creation and allow people to live together in a self-determined
manner.
Martin
Luther, The Reformer:
Learn
from me, how difficult a thing it is to throw off errors confirmed by the
example of all the world, and which, through long habit, have become a second
nature to us.
Martin
Luther (Sermon; August 27, 1525):
"But
the other commandments of Moses, which are not [implanted in all men] by
nature, the Gentiles do not hold. Nor do these pertain to the Gentiles, such as
the tithe..."
- From the doctrinal statement of
the Evangelical Church of Lutheran Confession in Brazil:
The
Lutheran church does not force on its members rigid rules of behavior. Rather,
we go by Luther's rule: "A Christian is a free person and master of all
things - by faith. The Christian a servant to all things and to all people - by
love"... The IECLB is supported through funds originating from voluntary
contributions and gifts of the members of its communities destined for
community and mission work. Their is no mandatory tithing, and church services,
including baptism, weddings, sepultation, visitation,
among others, are rendered free of charge.
- Francis Frangipane Ministries
(statement concerning giving to their ministry):
One way
we discern where the Lord is directing us is through the support He sends from
His people. Therefore we will make our needs known to our friends - but we will
not manipulate, plead or beg for contributions. We believe that no financial
need justifies dishonoring the Lord, His people or this work.
[It should be noted that Francis Frangipane is not personally
opposed to the concept of giving a tenth of your income to the local church;
however, his own ministry does not request support through this method.
Additionally, Francis does not even receive a salary from his home church,
which he also pastors, only a housing allowance which as he states,
"…the housing allowance I receive, I then surrender to the work of the
Lord. What my faith possesses my humility surrenders…"]
- Dr. Eddy Cheong (re: tithing) emphasis added by Cheong:
Let me
say from the very beginning that there is a distinct difference between giving
to God and giving to "the church". Giving to God is a scriptural
concept (Matt 22:21); Giving to "the church" could just be an
emotional response to a well-orchestrated man-made appeal which is out of God's
Will and God's Word. So it is important for us to study God's Word so that we
are able to discern whether funds being solicited in a particular church are
based on sound New Testament Scriptural principles. Prayer is the other means
of helping to discern God's Will in a particular area of financial need (of
such a church)... In fact, giving should be more appropriately termed
"free will offerings" in the context of the New Testament Church, for
Paul commanded us to give as we purpose in our heart (2 Cor.
9:7). If the amount is a fixed one, there will be no need to purpose in one's
heart anymore!! I repeat there is no curse for "NOT TITHING" in the
New Testament church (as is often implied on sermons from Malachi 3:10-12)...
Our Lord has fulfilled all the requirements of the Mosaic Law and taken the
curse of (not obeying) the Law away from us (Galatians 3:13). The New Testament
Christian should abide by the teachings of the Apostle Paul (which has
superseded Moses' Law.). Christians who insist on keeping the Law of Moses or
part of it are under a curse! Gal 3:10 - "All who rely on observing the
law are under a curse, for it is written: 'Cursed is everyone who does not
continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.'" (NIV)
Churches advocating tithing as compulsory are putting a curse on their
congregations! So in summary, 'Giving' is a New Testament 'Church' Principle as
opposed to 'tithing by Law' (by compulsion). Jesus clearly commanded (take note
that it was not an option) that we have to give to God. Matt 22:21 - "'Caesar's,'
they replied. Then he said to them, 'Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to
God what is God's.'" (NIV) "What is God's" implies a fixed
sum. BUT we must remember that Jesus made the above statement in the context of
the Mosaic Law which was still existent in His Time. Further on in the
epistles, the Apostle Paul qualifies this "giving" as "from the
heart" and proportionate to the degree that one is blessed. He
specifically spoke against "compulsion" (from sources outside).
Manipulating a person to give (whether directly or indirectly) is a form of
witchcraft... 2 Cor. 9:7 - "Each man should
give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under
compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (NIV) "What he has
decided in his heart to give" clearly has to be some amount (not zero). It
may be ten percent or more. Well, it may even be less, but give as the Holy
Spirit directs your heart; NOT AS THE PASTOR DIRECTS YOU. This is the distinct
difference between giving to God and giving to the church.
[Dr Eddy Cheong is a Christian minister from West Malaysia. He
is author of two books and is also a medical specialist by profession.]
- Gary Carpenter Ministries (from
a message entitled: From Formula To Relationship) emphasis added by Gary
Carpenter:
God
loves to prosper His people. His prosperity has much more to do with your
RELATIONSHIP with Him than it does LEGALISTIC FORMULAS. I suggest you ask
yourself the following questions if you truly desire to walk in more of His
abundance: ARE YOU SEEKING FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD? Do you spend daily time in
the Word, prayer and periodic fasting to seek the will of the Lord foryour life's call in His kingdom? He has a plan for every
member of His body. What is His plan for your life? What are you doing to find
out what that plan is? ARE YOU GIVING A PORTION OF YOUR INCOME INTO GOD'S WORK?
It will be hard to convince even yourself that you are very interested in what
God is doing in theearth if you are not sowing a
portion of your finances into the work of the gospel. Why do you want to
prosper? To heap up treasure for yourself? To see souls rescued from Hell?
Whose kingdom are you most interested in? His ... or yours? WHAT IS THE SIZE OF
YOUR FIELD? Take inventory of your life. Is your field already producing
maximum harvest? Is it already "wallto wall
corn?" Is there any room for financial increase in the job you presently
have? Has He already blessed your current field to maximum harvest? WHAT CAN
YOU DO TO SOW LARGER FIELDS IN THE EARTH? Spend time in prayer and ask the Lord
to show you if there are additional skills He would like for you to acquire. You
will find Him to be very practical. He is a Living Lord and He is very capable
of giving you precise instructions regarding what you should do. Of course, to
obtain answers like these requires more of us than simply "plunking"
our legalistic ten percent in the offering plate each Sunday. Answers to
questions like these require TIME in fellowship with the Lord Himself through
the avenues of the Word, prayer and fasting. NOW you are discovering the true
path to prosperity. He prospers His people through RELATIONSHIP, not FORMULA!
He desires your fellowship infinitely more than He desires your legalistic
offering. For those who will spend time with Him and obey His leadership, there
are no limits to the level of prosperity He can bring them to. Isa 48:17 Thus saith the LORD,
thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth
thee by the way that thou shouldest go.
[Gary Carpenter is a minister to the body of Christ who
expresses his calling as being Prayer, Teaching and Kingdom Finances. He is
also a prophetic voice in the body of Christ and has a sincere heart to help
teach Christians how to deal responsibly with their finances and, more
importantly, to seek the Lord for His heart in such matters. All of his
teaching tapes and printed materials are provided FREE to those that ask for
them! His website expressly states that those who are blessed by his ministry
should not feel obligated to donate any money to the ministry. He tells the
story of how the Lord spoke to him regarding his ministry and said, "Take
up no offerings from these people. Sell no tapes. Mail everything freely and do
not even put in a return envelope. If you will precisely obey these
instructions of Mine I will speak to the hearts of the people I choose to
support both you and the needs of the ministry." He also talks about his
initial hesitency to take his ministry to the Web
because of what it may cost him financially to maintain this desire to provide
all materials free to God's people. Of these concerns he struggled with he
states, "My thinking was, 'Lord, what if a 100,000 people all write in for
tapes at once? These tapes do cost!' I see now that this kind of thinking has a
name... DOUBT AND UNBELIEF! I say now, HIS WILL BE DONE! I have learned from
experience over the past two and a half years that the Lord certainly has the
capability of financing whatever He wants done in the earth. Apparently, He
wants this ministry done... NOW! Amen! So be it! The financial responsibilities
are His, not mine. So now I move out in faith in Him toward blessing
you--ministering to you--helping you--and praying for you--by His Spirit. Let
His Ministry go forth through me, and then through you." Gary and his wife
minister on the principle that freely they have received and so freely they
give, trusting God to supply every need for His work. The ministry's website is
located here: http://www.garycarpenter.org]
- Michael Clark (excerpt from the
article: He Shall Suplly Your Needs) emphasis added:
In 1970
my wife Dorothy and I went full time into a ministry that could not support us
but I felt that it was God's call just the same. We were in that ministry for
six years. The first year was the acid test. I prayed and fasted that the Lord
would show me His will concerning quitting my job to go "full time,"
and thought I heard Him say to do so. I had the attitude that if God was my
boss and husband, then He would meet our needs as we were obedient to Him. I
went to work for Him and expected my wages to come from Him. These were terms
that I could understand at the time and He honored my faith. In the first year,
He met all our needs and not only that, He paid off our house and gave us a
car. We even had a baby in that year and God paid off that bill, too! Often I
would be handed a blank envelope with money in it. I never had to panhandle
any of His people for the money, for I believed that this was not living by
faith to do so. After all the Word says, "Be anxious for nothing, but in
everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests
be made known to God." (Philippians 4:6, NASB). We are to first and
foremost make our requests to God and not men. God honored my faith and
never let us down. Grant it, at times he came up with the money for a bill at
the very last minute, but that just stretched my faith and made it grow. By the
end of that year we were totally debt free... I just wanted you to know that
God is able to provide your every need from His riches in glory in Christ
Jesus...
Michael
Clark - The Law and the Church (teaching excerpt):
You see
the early never taught tithing or many of the rules either written or implied in
our churches today. They believed in the power of a changed life with its new
heart to lead the believer into all righteousness. And they also believed that
God would supply their every need from His riches in glory. Paul had to
confront certain Jewish members of the church for trying to get the Gentile
believers to start keeping the law. He finally had a show-down with them in
Jerusalem and the outcome of it was the following decree. “For it seemed good
to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these
necessary things; that you abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood,
and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if you keep
yourselves, you shall do well (Acts 15: 28-29).” Wouldn't this have been an excellent
time to lay down the law about New Testament tithing? If this was a legal
decree coming down from the rulers of today's Churches and denominations, it
would be at the top of the list! ...Don’t people have faith in the ability of
the Holy Spirit to lead, teach, and keep His people in the power of a changed
life and to convict them of sin where necessary? To listen to the teachers in
the Church today, you would not think so. Jesus promised to send us help in our
walk with God. “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into
all truth ” ( John 16:13). “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father
will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of
everything I have said to you" ( John 14:26) [Also read I John 2:20 &
27] When we, as well meaning Christians, set out to help the Holy Spirit by
giving our young charges in the Lord a set of rules to keep them on “the
straight and narrow,” we often cause more damage than good. I remember what a
thrill it was to hear a young Christian tell me how depressing it was for him
to try a marijuana cigarette again after he got saved. “I felt the peace
leaving me and it was really a downer,” he said. He had found out for himself
how the Spirit could lead him into walking in truth. Paul warned the foolish Galatian church, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us
free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by the yoke
of slavery"(Gal. 5:1)...
[Michael Clark served the Lord in the capacity of full-time
ministry for several years in the 70's during the "Jesus People"
Movement. Currently he lives in Bayview, Idaho and
authors a number of prophetic teachings and articles and is not affiliated with
any organized, institutional-style group. He is a broken vessel that has been
used by Lord to touch lives through a resourceful website, personal ministry
and has seen the miraculous power of Jesus touch lives through prayer. He has a
strong message to the body of Christ to see intimacy with Jesus increase and
move the Church beyond mere religious practice to radical relationship with God
and a restoration of what it means to truly be the Lord's servant. His website
is located here: http://awildernessvoice.com]
- Tony Badillo
- Tithing, God's Command or Man's Demand (excerpt from the book) emphasis added by Tony:
Here is
an amazing paradox - incredible but true: Physical Israel received what is
surely the most bountiful, most fruitful physical land in all the earth. With
the possible exception of the Garden of Eden, there has never been a more
productive land than the Promised Land given to Israel. Indeed, God
"circumcised" it with rain from heaven. And yet... The heart of the
Israelites themselves - the heart which is portrayed by the Bible as a piece of
land or ground - proved itself worthless, barren unfruitful, and hard as
stone - fit perhaps for growing only thorns and thistles. See now how God
compares the heart of Israel as unfruitful. And what does this have to do with
tithing? Simply that a literal ten-percent tithe was required to be paid from a
physical land inheritance - a land which was, without question, very fruitful.
It was a high-yield land. In essence, the literal land was circumcised by
literal physical rainfall from an earthly heaven. But in contrast...
Spiritual Israel (Christians today), have NO LITERAL LAND INHERITANCE and
hence, NO LITERAL TEN-PERCENT TITHE is required - no, not at all. But you see,
Christians too have a high-yield land. Christians too have a circumcised
land. But this is a spiritual land receiving spiritual rain (the
Holy Spirit) from the "heaven of heavens" which is God's throne. And
it is this Spiritual Rainfall which gives this Spiritual Land the Spiritual
Circumcision... Therefore, it is the spiritual fruit from this spiritual
circumcision that God really wants - and not a literal ten-percent tithe
return from a physical land! And THIS is the relationship between circumcision
and tithing...
[Tony Badillo is a Christian brother,
Bible teacher, and former member of the Worldwide Church of God. He is
author of the book mentioned above and also authors a number of articles on
church-related issues and has a heart for people who have been caught in the
deceptive teachings of the WCG and also those who have been robbed of their
Christian liberty by legalistic teachings in the Church.]
- Hubert Krause and Orest Solyma - A History of
Tithing from the Bible (excerpt
from the book):
A
Further Look at Matt 23:23-34: By their meticulous attention to the physical,
in this case in tithing on the smallest of garden herbs, Christ described the
Pharisees as "straining out a gnat"-a reference to their practice of
straining out their water so they would not accidentally swallow a gnat, an
unclean insect according to the Law. It was indeed laid down in the Law that a
gnat was an unclean insect to be avoided, but the point Christ was making was
that the Pharisees were unbalanced in their strict, legalistic application of
the letter of the Law, to the detriment of its spiritual intent, its
"weightier matters" (v 23). He condemned their attitudes and motives
that were responsible for this legalistic application of the Law. Yes, the Levitical law of the tithe was still operative, and Christ
did not dismiss their own adherences, though He did deal with their hypocrisy.
However, the added implication of His words is that their tithing law was in
His eyes also a "gnat" in comparison with the weightier
considerations of the Law; that is, it was of minimal importance when
contrasted with God's great Law of Love. Certainly, He took no pains to uphold
it as having an ongoing universal application, for He could easily, in these
verses or elsewhere, have expounded upon the subject. Instead, if we look at
the parallel verses in Luke 11:41-42, we see that He commended the spiritual
generosity of the heart and the giving of alms over tithe-paying (cp. Matt
6:1-4; 19:20-22). Christ was saying to let your heart-pure spiritual
motives-determine your giving, both physical and spiritual, for this is a
reflection of the love of God, rather than the compulsory tithe (Lk 11:42). It is interesting that Christ, while upholding
the law of Moses, drew upon the tithing practices of the Pharisees to
demonstrate their preoccupation with burdensome ritualism to the neglect of
more important spiritual obligations. Principle and law, which have ongoing and
intrinsic value, are the ammunition of rebuke rather than arrogant traditions.
Hubert
Krause and Orest Solyma - A
History of Tithing from the Bible (excerpt from the book):
Christ
gave many discourses and parables with respect to monetary matters and
financial stewardship, yet never once did He indicate that: 1.) either He or
His apostles were to be the recipients of the Levitical
tithe in the future; 2.) the Levitical tithe was
obligatory for the Christian; or 3.) the NT Church He was building would be
supported or financed by tithes. In the light of the fact that He, the High
Priest of God, was the very cause for the changes in the Levitical
law. The reality is that Christ could not legally have received tithes during
His earthly ministry, as He was a Jew, of the tribe of Judah, not a Levite (Heb
7:14). The Levites/priests alone were entitled to receive such offerings and
tithes. There is no evidence that He ever exacted tithes from anyone, and at
one stage He had at least five thousand people following Him (Jn 6:10) from whom He could have perhaps done so. After
all, the more people there are the greater the money. It was a fish that
provided even the shekel for the temple tax (Mat 17:24-27). Please note these
simple principles: Matt. 10:8 - "Freely you have received, freely
give," is the message of the Gospel. Matt. 19:21 - The rich young man was
to "sell what you have and give to the poor." Not to give to the
temple or to the Levitical priesthood still
functioning, neither to Christ, nor to His disciples. Isn't this an
extraordinary demand? It is restated in Mk. 10:21 and Lk.
18:22. Matt. 6:2-4 - Christ said that believers were to give alms, to help the
poor and disadvantaged. Lk. 6:38 - "Give, and it
will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running
over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it
will be measured back to you." Give compassionately, generously, and
voluntarily, and wisely but not because you are under coercion. Acts 20:35 -
Luke records one of the great sayings of Jesus Christ which is not mentioned
anywhere else: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." And the
context is Paul speaking to a ministerial gathering at Miletus. Giving or
tithing from feelings of guilt, fear, self-compulsion, coercion, or
superstition can hardly be approved of by God. I remember as a lad being told
that if I succeeded in doing 13 monthly benedictions I would be totally
exempted from purgatory. Similarly, some believe that if they faithfully tithe,
they will be given special material blessings. If one keeps buying lottery
tickets one might win the lottery. These modes of belief and behaviour are based on superstition and covetousness.
Giving is the outflow of godly discernment and belief without any expectation
of returns (cp. Lk 14:12-14; 5:27-32). Christ's
parables of the pounds (Lk 19:12-26), the talents
(Matt 25:14-30), the shrewd manager (Lk 16:1-12), and
other parables revolved around money matters (Matt 18:21-35). His teachings
about Christian stewardship never once connected these lessons to tithe-paying,
let alone to any obligation on the part of His followers then or today to pay
tithes.
[Krause and Solyma are Christian
lay-ministers from Melbourne, Australia and are part of the fellowship known as
the Church of God in Williamstown, Melbourne. They are former members of
the World Wide Church of God and have a website that posts a number of articles
and teaching resources for Christians in the venue of Bible study. They are
authors of the previously quoted book. Their website is located here: http://www.alphalink.com.au/~sanhub/index_.htm]
- Minister Raymond D. Sopp - Heart To Heart Commentary (Re: Tithing) - emphasis added by Sopp:
[Re:
Malachi 3:8-10] Many teachers of our day will point out with glee that this is
the ONLY place in the Bible where God allows us to test Him, as if we
should be proud of the fact that God gives us permission here to test Him. But
at the same time they turn a blind eye to the fact that throughout the Bible
God actually deplores being tested. It is true that God's permissive will
allows us to test Him, but should His sons and daughters be content with God's
permissive will instead of His perfect will? As we read Malachi, we discover
that this was a time in history when all that God was receiving from His people
were their leftovers. Therefore, in order to deal with their
hard-heartedness, God gave permission for His people to test Him. Yes, even
today this remains a great verse to overcome hard-heartedness and raise money.
But now as His sons and daughters, should we be proud of the fact we still need
to use this verse? Are we not in fact actually exposing our own
hard-heartedness by embracing God's permissive will in testing Him? Let us
compare this to another example in God's Word concerning His permissive will.
Matthew 19:7-8, "They said to Him, ‘Why then did Moses command to give her
a certificate of divorce and send her away?' He said to them, ‘Because of
your hardness of heart, Moses permitted you to divorce your wives; but from
the beginning it has not been this way.'" Notice God's permissive will on
divorce was formulated to deal with the problem of our hard-heartedness.
Certainly this is nothing for us to boast in. So we find this duplicity
today within God's Church. We wisely teach against divorce, although it's
permissible, yet shamelessly and with glee we continue to propagate the fact
that we have God's permissive will to test Him as it concerns our finances...
What about the tithe as it is defined as 10 percent of our income? The reason you
will not find the word tithe in the New Testament to describe the giving of our
finances unto our Lord's work is that as God's sons and daughters, we are to
follow Jesus' example of complete surrender. Therefore, to fulfill the tithe
unto perfection (maturity), we must be willing to move from God's permissive
will into His perfect will, we must finance evangelism, the needs of others,
and the teaching of God's Word selflessly without an imposed limit. Not under
compulsion, but from a sincere heart, motivated only by love -- a love birthed
by God's Holy Spirit which now lives within us. 2 Corinthians 8:12-15,
"For if the readiness is present, it is acceptable according to what a man
has, not according to what he does not have. For this is not for the ease of
others and for your affliction, but by way of equality, at this present time
your abundance being a supply for their want, that their abundance also may
become a supply for your want, that there may be equality; as it is written, ‘He
who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little had no
lack.'" Here Paul clearly describes the perfection (maturity) of
giving as being without a set limit...
[Source: http://www.soppministries.org/index18.htm]
- Youth With A
Youth
With A Mission is a volunteer movement of thousands of Christians in hundreds
of locations that depends on God to motivate people to contribute their time
and skills as well as their financial resources. We welcome your financial
participation.
- Peninsula Bible
New
Testament principles of giving form the guide for our financial policy. Those
who know and love the Lord Jesus Christ are asked to prayerfully consider the
needs of the church and give as the Lord Himself directs. Stewardship of money
is considered equally important along with all other areas of ministry and
service, including the proclaiming of God's Word. Love for the Lord and for His
work constitutes the proper motive for giving or preaching. We believe the Lord
has called this church into existence, and therefore we look to Him to supply
our needs. All believers in Christ have the privilege and responsibility of
giving as God has prospered them, and as He directs them. Each of us is thereby
investing material gifts to produce spiritual, eternal dividends. PBC does not
keep a record of its contributors or the amounts they give other than that
required by IRS regulations governing the reporting of charitable donations.
The board of elders believe this policy insures impartiality and follows the
scriptural guidelines that we are not to "let the right hand know what the
left hand is doing" in matters of giving, which is to say, neither the
elders nor staff know who gives what amounts. For tax receipt purposes, PBC
provides annual receipts for each individual gift of $250 or more. For
individual gifts of less than $250, a person's canceled check will suffice. In
the case of special offerings for Christian organizations, missionaries or
specific ministries, a donor may choose to give through PBC and remain
anonymous or give directly to the organization, missionary or ministry and be
recognized. The elders encourage the latter course of action. (Revised April
15, 1998).
[PBC’s estimated average annual
church budget is well over 1.4 million dollars. That budget is consistently met
or exceeded yearly with only freewill, completely voluntary offerings given to
the church. PBC was founded in 1948 and continues to grow and be a blessing to
many people. An astounding tribute to the merit potential of love-motivated
grace giving principles as taught exclusively in the New Testament]
- Church-of-Christ.org [Financial
Statement]:
By what
means does the church secure financial support? Each first day of the week the
members of the church "lay by in store as they have been prospered"
(1 Corinthians 16:2). The amount of any individual gift is generally known only
to the one who gave it and to the Lord. This free-will offering is the only
call, which the church makes. NO assessments or other levies are made. No
money-making activities, such as bazaars or suppers, are engaged in. A total if
approximately $200,000,000 is given on this basis each year.
Q&A
About The Churches of Christ (from a
Christians
gave toward the work of the local church (1 Cor.
16:1,2), not a tithe, but as they prospered (2 Cor.
9:7).
- Moody Bible Institute
(statement on "stewardship"):
The
Moody Bible Institute is a fully accredited degree granting educational
institution. One of the distinctive aspects of our undergraduate program is the
tuition-paid policy. While many schools charge their students thousands of
dollars per semester, the Institute and its students rely on the faithful
giving of concerned donors to provide the financial support needed to educate
students.
Today
in the Word -
Worship
is not a monetary transaction. The issue is whether or not God has our hearts.
If He does, responding to Him with our gifts will be no problem. Once we value
God more than we value anything on earth, we will discover a new depth to our
worship and experience a new level of God's blessing.
Today
in the Word -
Giving
to God first can become a real challenge to our faith when it seems that our
paycheck won’t stretch far enough. There’s no New Testament command to this
effect, because we don’t have the detailed instructions on tithes and
offerings found in the Law. But setting aside our offering to the Lord first is
a tangible way of telling Him that He is first in our affections. It’s also a
wonderful way to express our confidence in His ability to meet needs.
- Walter A. Elwell
- Baker Theological Dictionary of the Bible (s.v.
"tithe", "tithing"):
Nowhere
does the New Testament require Christians to tithe in the sense of giving 10
percent, but it does reiterate many things associated with tithing: those who
minister are entitled to receive support (1 Cor.
9:14); the poor and needy should be cared for (1 Cor.
16:1; Gal. 2:10); those who give can trust God, as the source of all that is
given 2 Cor. 9:10), to supply their needs (2 Cor. 9:8; Phil. 4:19); and giving should be done joyously
(2 Cor. 9:7). The New Testament directs that taxes be
paid to the state (Romans 13:6-7), which replaced
Walter
A. Elwell - Baker Theological Dictionary of the Bible
(s.v. "collection"):
The
right of the New Testament minister to donated support is affirmed by Jesus
(Luke 10:7) and the early church (1 Cor. 9:1-14; 1
Tim.
- Jerome Smith – The New Treasury
of Scripture Knowledge (p. 1152.):
Tithing
is not taught in the New Testament as an obligation for the Christian under
grace... Because we are not under law, but under grace, Christian giving must
not be made a matter of legalistic obligation, lest we fall into the error of Galatianism…
Jerome
Smith – The New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (p. 1026.) emphasis added:
The
LORD commanded the Israelites to "Bring the whole tithe into the
storehouse, that there may be food in my house...." (Malachi 3:10)
Christians are often urged to tithe based upon a mistaken appeal to this Old
Testament text, which is wrested out of its rightful context, when applied to
such a purpose... The storehouse is clearly the temple, not the church...
Taken in context this passage lends no support to the mistaken doctrine
of `storehouse tithing,' whereby Christians have been directed to restrict all
their financial giving to their own denomination or local church, or as a
variation, church members have been directed to pay the tithe to the local
church, and restrict giving to outside organizations to amounts over and above
the church tithe.
- Henry G. Sheppard - Tithing;
What Does The Bible Really Teach? (excerpt):
Re:
Tithes considered as ‘Corban’ - He [Jesus] was also saying to them [the Pharisees], “You nicely set aside the
commandment of God in order to keep your tradition. For Moses said, ‘Honor your
father and your mother’; and, ‘He who speaks evil of father or mother, let him
be put to death’; but you say, ‘If a man says to his father, anything of mine
you might have been helped by is Corban (that is to
say, given to God),’ you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or
his mother; thus invalidating the word of God by your tradition which you have
handed down; and you do many such things as that” (Mark 7:9-13). If you have
money your family needs, but you withhold it from them in order to pay it to
the church as ‘tithes’, you are doing exactly what the Pharisees did. You are
saying your money is “Corban” and Jesus taught that
by doing so you were invalidating the Word of God.
Henry
G. Sheppard - Tithing; What Does The Bible Really Teach? (excerpt):
Re:
What does the New Testament teach about giving? - We are to agree with God that
He owns us, and in keeping with that belief we are to present ourselves to Him.
"I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your
bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual
service of worship" (Romans 12:1). "Now brethren, we wish to make
known to you the grace of God which has been given in the churches of
[Sheppard continues the subject of Christian giving by pointing
out that Christians should be properly motivated by God's love and grace, also
that they should respond to need, that they should give secretly and humbly,
also according to what they have and are able to give, and with a joyous and
cheerful attitude of heart.]
- Frank Viola - Straight Talk To
Elders (Note: The following is a
brief excerpt from the transcript of a 3-hour question-and-answer session,
which occured on July 24th, 2001 following a
message that Frank Viola delivered to 30 elders who were responsible for
overseeing more than 10 congregations in Santiago, Chile.):
Question:
What place does tithing have inside of the church?
Frank replies: Are there bulletproof vests
in this room? (Laughter.) Okay, brother, I will answer your question. If we
approach the New Testament by lifting verses from various letters and putting
them together, we can build a case that tithing is a New Testament practice.
And therefore we can tell God’s people that they must tithe. But if you look at
the story of the first-century church, you will discover that the Christians
did not pay tithes. It is not there, brothers. It is not there. I will add
something to this. The early Christians recognized that the tithe was part of
the Old Covenant. The tithe was
[The entire transcript of "Straight Talk To Elders,"
both the message by Frank Viola and the 3 hour question-and-answer time that
followed, was previously available online at the follwing
URL: http://www.ptmin.org/elders.htm. Alternately, the document can be
found here: http://prayershack.freeservers.com/article_StraightTalkToElders.html
and here: http://www.etpv.org/2002/ste1.html]
- William Klein, Craig Bloomberg,
and William Hubbard - Introduction to Biblical Interpretation:
Just as
poor people could offer less costly sacrifices in those days (Lev. 12; cf. Luke
- Stephen J. Lang - 1001 Things
You Always Wanted to Know about the Bible:
The New
Covenant urges generous giving proportionate to one’s income. Wealthy
Christians were expected to give generously to aid the less fortunate brother
in the faith.
- Rev. Joseph M. Willmouth – Pastor of Trinity Bible Church in Biloxi,
Today
when we hear about giving it is often, if not always, presented as a duty of
every Christian to give a tithe. And when we hear that the preacher is going to
preach from the book of Malachi we automatically think about only
thing...giving your tithe to God's warehouse, and stop stealing from God by not
tithing. In fact, most Christians if asked for Scripture references about
tithing would probably only refer you to the book of Malachi. I am convinced
that most churches' approach to tithing is based upon a theology that believes
the Church is now
- Mission Frontiers Bulletin - An
Interview with An Indian Christian In A De-Westernized Ministry(article excerpt):
Question:
How do you treat tithing?
Answer: We raise our own support in our
fellowship. We are all generous. We believe in raising our own funds. There
have been occasions when visiting friends have offered a check, but we have
refused it...
[The preceding excerpt was taken from an article that featured
dialog with an Indian Christian who has de-westernized his Indian Christianity.
His family along with others are involved in getting the Gospel into the Hindu
mainstream of
- The Evangelical Council for
Financial Accountability (ECFA) (re: tithing):
How
much should we give? Give liberally. "Whoever sows generously will also
reap generously" (2 Cor. 9:6). Since it all
belongs to Him, giving Him only a tithe seems so insignificant. It is
impossible to place a limit on how much we should give when we are investing in
things of eternal value. Ask God to show
you how He wants you to be generous with your time, your talents, and your
resources. This kind of obedience is the key to freedom, satisfaction, and
contentment.
[The ECFA is an accreditation
agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public’s trust through
adherence to seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship. Founded in 1979, it is comprised of over
1,100 charitable, religious, missionary, social, and educational tax-exempt,
nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations.]
- International Standard Bible
Encyclopedia (electronic edition):
[s.v. "Tithe"] W. R. Smith and others suggest that the tithe is
simply a later form of the first-fruits, but this is difficult to accept, since
the first-fruits were given to the priest, while the tithes were not.
[The previous excerpt from the International Standard Bible
Encyclopedia illustrates a common misconception, among many of those that teach
tithing, that it is regarded as a form of firstfruits
offering. Often times passages, which pertain to firstfruits,
are lumped together with passages about tithing and giving in an attempt to
illustrate that the tithe is the Christian's first monetary priority. However
popular such an opinion today, that tithing and firstfruits
are the same offering, the Bible does not clearly support any such notion, but
rather the contrary. Firstfruits were given to the
priests (Leviticus 23:20; Numbers 18:12-13; Deuteronomy 18:3), while tithes
were given to the Levites and the poor, the fatherless, the widows, the
sojourning strangers in the land, and was also consumed by the tither himself and his family. Even some of the earliest
writings of the Church illustrate this understanding. Here, briefly, is a
comment taken from the book of The First Conference of Abbot Theonas (Post-Nicean Fathers); it
states: "For
indeed by the Lord's command tithes were consecrated to the service of the
Levites, but oblations and firstfruits for the
priests." Even the famous passage of Malachi 3:8 separates the tithe from firstfruits (i.e. "tithes and offerings" -
Deuteronomy 18:4; Nehemiah 13:10, 13:12; etc.). Jamieson, Fausset,
and Brown's Commentary also notes the separation between the two oblations as
mentioned in Malachi 3:8. So we see a clear distinction in their application,
pointing to the fact that they were not the same offering. The other contrast
between the two is that the firstfruits offering was
voluntary, whereas the tithe was not (see Jamieson, Fausset,
& Brown's commentary on the passage of Leviticus 2:12). As an additional
note, firstfruits are NEVER regarded in Scripture in
monetary terms. The same is absolutely true of the separate offering of the
tithe. Both pertain to food source only, never money, and only later in the New
Testament, the firstfruits are paralleled in a
figurative sense to Christ's work of salvation and those that are saved. To
make the subject of tithes or firstfruits about money
as a modern application is to do so without any sanction of Scripture
whatsoever.]
- Pastor & Theologian, Dr.
Russell Earl Kelly, Ph.D.:
(from
his book "Should The Church Teach Tithing" - p.277-278):
While I
have personally received full-time support in the past, I am now forced to
admit that receipt of such, at least in Paul’s mind and era, was following the lesser
principle of my "rights," rather than following the greater principle
of exercising my "liberty" to preach the gospel un-pressured by those
who contribute the most to my sustenance. This is an uncomfortable subject, to
say the least. Every serious Bible student will eventually encounter teachings
in God’s Word of which he or she will at first find hard to accept. The answer
to my question, "Should preachers accept full-time salaries?" was
startling to one who has received full-salaried support from the gospel. The
answer shook me, and should disturb the very foundation of the modern church
system. It was one thing to question whether tithing was the New Covenant
principle used to support the gospel ministry. However, my studies led me
eventually to 1 Corinthians 9 and the "rights" that gospel ministers
had to receive financial support. Next, the thorough cross-referencing and
commentary searches led me to Acts 13:1-3; 18:1-4; 20:16-35; 2 Cor. 11:7-9; 2 Cor. 12:13-15;
Phil. 4:15-19; 1 Thess. 2:9-10; and 2 Thess. 3:6-15. Although I had read these texts many times
over forty years as a Christian, I had never "put them together" to
see the entire picture…
Pastor
& Theologian, Dr. Russell Earl Kelly, Ph.D. (from his book "Should The
Church Teach Tithing", p. 290-291): Just because one has a "right" to act in a
certain way does not make that "right" a necessity. Christ had
a "right" to defend himself against false accusers, but often refused
to use it. We have a "right" to take the nearest parking spot and
force the elderly to walk farther, but that does not mean that we should do so.
Paul said that others should follow his example and disregard the
"right" for the sake of the liberty of preaching the gospel in all
its power. Again, it is a shame that a conservative Bible commentary must admit
that, "The main objective of giving in the early church was to provide for
the needs of the poor brothers rather than to support the preaching of the
gospel as is the case today". (Wycliffe Comm., s.v.
"Acts 20:34.") Paul’s "churches" (rather, "assemblies
of believers") met in homes, not fancy buildings. Instead of going
"from house to house" to worship, as Paul did in Acts 20:20, the vast
majority of money given by believers today goes to pay for buildings and
salaries, rather than to the poor. To most believers the word,
"church," brings up thoughts of an edifice rather than an assembly of
believers. (On houses, see Acts 2:46; 5:42; 20:20; Rom. 16:5; 2 Tim. 3:6; Tit.
1:11). What this New Covenant conclusion does to tithing is evident. The truth
is a radical change from tradition and life under the principles of Mosaic Law.
Paul’s last letters were written from 30-35 years after Calvary. Yet not a
word is said about tithing. While specifically discussing the "matter
of giving and receiving," he called the gifts "a fragrant offering
and an acceptable sacrifice" and, again, no mention is made of tithes
(Phil. 3:15-18). On the other hand, Paul seemed concerned about greed,
covetousness, and the love of money when writing to Timothy. Since such problem
definitely existed, Paul addressed the problem of elders and deacons in regard
to money matters.
Pastor
& Theologian, Dr. Russell Earl Kelly, Ph.D. (from his book "Should The
Church Teach Tithing" p.139-140): None of the three main hermeneutical approaches to theology
today support tithing. First, the advocates of covenant theology divide the law
into moral commandments, ceremonial statutes, and civil judgments. They, next,
recognize, and dismiss, tithing as a ceremonial statute. Second, advocates of
dispensational theology also divide the law into commandments, statutes, and
judgments. However, they see it as an indivisible whole, dismiss the entire
law, and start over again with God repeating his eternal moral principles in
the New Covenant after Calvary… Advocates of a third approach to hermeneutics
between covenant theology and dispensational theology also dismiss tithing
because of its cultic non-moral usage.
Pastor
& Theologian, Dr. Russell Earl Kelly, Ph.D.
(www.shouldthechurchteachtithing.com/ - May 14, 2005 - essay): According to the very best
historians and encyclopedias, it took over 500 years before the local church
Council of Macon, in the year 585, tried unsuccessfully to enforce tithing on
its members and it was not until the year 777 that Emperor Charlemagne legally
allowed the church to collect tithes.
- Alfred Edersheim
- Sketches of Jewish Social Life (p.169-170):
We now
understand how so many of the disciples and followers of the Lord gained their
living by some craft; how in the same spirit the Master Himself condescended to
the trade of His adoptive father; and how the greatest of His apostles
throughout earned his bread by the labour of his
hands, probably following, like the Lord Jesus, the trade of his father. For it
was a principle frequently expressed, if possible "not to forsake the
trade of the father." …And what in this respect Paul practiced, that he
also preached. Nowhere is the dignity of labour and
the manly independence of honest work more clearly set forth than in his
Epistles. At Corinth, his first search seems to have been for work (Acts 18:3);
and through his life he steadily forbore availing himself of his right to be
supported by the Church, deeming it his great "reward" to "make
the Gospel of Christ without charge" (1 Cor.
9:18). Nay, to quote his impassioned language, he would far rather have died of
hard work than that any man should deprive him of this "glorying."
And so presently at Ephesus "these hands" minister not only unto his
necessities, but also to them that were with him; and that for the twofold
reason of supporting the weak, and of following the Master, however "afar
off," and entering into this joy of His, "It is more blessed to give
than to receive" (Acts 20:34, 35)… Here is the preacher himself! Not a
man-pleaser, but a God-server; not a flatterer, nor covetous, nor yet seeking
glory, nor courting authority, like the Rabbis. What then? This is the sketch
as drawn from life at Thessalonica, so that each who had known him must have
recognized it: most loving, like a nursing mother, who cherisheth
her own children, so in tenderness willing to impart not only the Gospel of
God, but his own life. Yet, with it all, no mawkishness, no sentimentality; but
all stern, genuine reality; and the preacher himself is "labouring night and day," because he would not be
chargeable to any of them, while he preached unto them the Gospel of God (1 Thess. 2:9).
[Alfred Edersheim (1825-89) was a
Vienna-born biblical scholar who converted from Judaism to Christianity. A
veteran minister and missionary to the Jews of Romania, Edersheim
left an enduring and priceless legacy to followers of Christ. Among his most
widely read works are "The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah,"
"The Temple: Its Ministry and Services," and "Bible History Old
Testament." - from the back of the book cover]
- Fred J. Scroggins - Tithes Are
Unbiblical For The New Covenant Church (excerpt from article):
The New
Testament Church never paid tithes. Tithing was for the state of Israel, a
taxation to support the priesthood of the Old Law of Moses. Christians never
tithed till the Catholic Church came up with a plan. The Church needed a plan
to take control of the money of the congregation. So through covetousness they
brought people back under the Old Law to control them and their money... So how
much money should a Christian give to God? Have a little talk with Jesus and he
will tell you what to give and where to give. His spirit will lead and guide
you! You should support the ministries that you think are truly preaching God's
Word. If you haven't talked to Jesus lately you need to get your relationship
with him worked out first because all the money in the world can't buy you
salvation.
[Brother Fred Scroggins, born in 1928, served the Lord as an
evangelist for 37 years and also pastored a number of
churches throughout his life in the ministry. The miraculous power of God and
many salvations were attributed to his ministry. A mainline denomination once
offered him a church, a home, a car, and a nice salary if he would do one
thing; Give up his message of freedom. Brother Fred believed firmly that tithes
were under the old law (the Law of Moses). Fred believed that every man should
give as God had prospered him and accordingly as he purposed in his own heart,
and not according to the 10% tithe that was commanded of the Jews under the Law
of Moses. Brother Scroggins went to be with the Lord in June of '98. The above
article can be found at http://members.truepath.com/ezekiel34/tithes.htm.]
- Greg Albrecht - Q & A About
Tithing (re: what percentage to give):
Christians
are not required to give a specific percentage of their income. Christians are,
however, commanded to give, as God has blessed them, as responsible stewards of
their time, talents and treasures...
Greg
Albrecht - Q & A About Tithing (re: before or after taxes):
Tithing
needs to be approached from the perspective that no specific or dogmatic
guidelines are given to Christians, compared to those given under the old
covenant. The New Testament bases principles of giving upon love, which is in
fact a higher standard than the strict percentage given under the old covenant.
Of course the new covenant does not release us from giving. Christians are told
that we are bought with a price, the precious blood of Christ, and that we are
not our own. Jesus owns all of us. We are told to give willingly, from a
cheerful heart, according to the blessings we have been given. The amount we
give is a choice we make, not a percentage mandated by the old covenant, or
attempted to be imposed by any human or group of humans.
Greg
Albrecht - Q & A About Tithing (re: where to give):
...no church,
pastor, or ministry can "demand" or "require" that a tithe,
or all of the free will offerings that a Christian decides to give to God’s
work, be given only to them. The body of Christ consists of many parts, and
many believers labor together, using their many gifts, to proclaim the gospel.
Christians may decide, under the new covenant, to whom and how much they give.
Christians, according to the new covenant, are to be generous and give of their
time, talents, and treasures for the work of God’s kingdom. However, as
Christians give, we should consider those sources that provide instruction,
pastoral care and counseling, direction, inspiration, missionary outreach,
evangelistic teaching, and spiritual nourishment – and give accordingly. Giving
should begin at the household of faith, and we should not neglect "our
own" – those with whom we worship, those who help us, those who provide
spiritual services to us.
[Greg Albrecht is the Editor of the Plain
Truth magazine and Executive Director of Plain Truth Ministries. The above remarks are
taken from a Question and Answer series on the ministry's website regarding the
subject of tithing.]
- Andrew Strom - From his article
in the New Zealand Revival Bulletin titled "The Bride Will Leave
Christendom" (1997):
Although
many Christians have spoken about the errors of Catholicism, etc, it has also
been noted by some that ALL of today's church, regardless of denomination, is
in a similar predicament in many ways. In other words, even many Pentecostals
and other 'modern' groups would be surprised to find just how
"Catholic" they are in reality, and how many 'man-made' practices
dominate their Christianity, and hinder God from working in their midst...
Basically our entire church system is still overwhelmingly "Catholic"
at heart. We still essentially have a "Priesthood/Laity" system
operating, we still build large 'Cathedrals' in which to meet on a day we designate
as our "Sabbath", we pay for it all with a 'tithing' system borrowed
(rather conveniently) direct from the Old Testament, we expect our
Priests/Pastors to be suitably-attired "professionals" with a degree
or diploma from Bible College (which would probably be far too intellectual for
barely any of Jesus' apostles to attain), etc, etc... God has been speaking so
much in recent years about His true people "COMING OUT OF
CHRISTENDOM" at the beginning of the coming Revival - leaving the current
church system and all that goes with it FOREVER. We are bound and we hardly
know it. We do things a certain way - we conduct "services" and hold
'crusades' the way we have been taught, because it is the only way we know.
There is just so much that we take for granted that has to change. Things we
regard as our 'normal Christian way of doing things' that all have to go. So
few of us realize just how "Catholic" even today's 'modern' churches
are. God is about to build a new church - a "street" church, built on
the foundation of the new apostles and prophets that He is about to raise up,
just like the early church. (For this is the way GOD builds His true church -
He starts with His new apostles, and builds the whole thing on them). The true
church is an "organism" - not an organisation.
It is built out of PEOPLE - it is nothing to do with buildings. And it is built
on the foundation of His true apostles and prophets. This is what we are about
to see again in our day. Glory to God! A glorious church, a spotless Bride
truly befitting the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. We live in the most
momentous (and dangerous) of times.
Andrew
Strom - From his book titled, "The Coming Great Reformation":
Two
examples of Old Testament laws that are often imposed today are Tithing and
Sabbath-keeping. However, the New Testament is very clear: "If you are led
by the Spirit, you are not under the law" (Gal 5:18. See also Col 2:14-17,
Rom 8:1-16, etc). This is why I believe that many of today's Morals Campaigners
and Christian Politicians are actually achieving very little for God's kingdom
at all. They are seeking to pass laws that may change people outwardly, but
will never cleanse their hearts.
- Mary Naber
- Christianity Today Magazine (Article: Christ's Returns - September 3,
2001, Vol. 45, No. 11, Page 78):
Jesus
warns that tithing our spices is insufficient if we remain blind to the more
important matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matt. 23:23). Yet
stewardship teaching in the church tends to begin and end with giving 10
percent. If God owns it all (Ps. 50:12), is he not intimately concerned with
the other 90 percent? A full understanding of stewardship considers justice,
mercy, and faithfulness in 100 percent of all that God has entrusted to us.
- Zondervan Pictoral
Encyclopedia of the Bible, Vol. 5, (s.v.
"tithe"):
Church
fathers such as Irenaeus and Epiphanius
did not believe Matt. 10:10, Luke 10:7 or 1 Cor.
9:7ff could be used to establish a pattern for the church based upon the
practice of the Jewish synagogue. They believed "freedom in Christian
giving [should be] emphasized"
- Quotations by the Early Church
Fathers (2nd through 4th centuries):
Justin
Martyr - c. 150 (First Apology, chapter 67):
And the
wealthy among us help the needy…when our prayer is ended, bread and wine and
water are brought, and the president in like manner offers prayers and
thanksgiving, according to his ability, and the people assent, saying Amen; and
there is a distribution to each, and a participation of that over which thanks
have been given, and to those who are absent a portion is sent by the deacons.
And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what
is collected is deposited with the president, who succors the orphans and
widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and
those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us
[In accordance with the first century Scripture,
"presidents," or church leaders, are only capable administrators, and
not necessarily pastors or teachers of the Word. - R.E.K., Ph.D.]
Irenaeus - c. 150-200 (Against Heresies, book 4, chap. 13, para. 3) emphasis added:
And for
this reason did the Lord, instead of that [commandment], ‘You shall not commit
adultery,’ forbid even concupiscence; and instead of that which runs thus, ‘You
shall not kill,’ He prohibited anger; and instead of the law enjoining the
giving of tithes, to share all our possessions with the poor; and not to
love our neighbors only, but even our enemies; and not merely to be liberal
givers and bestowers, but even that we should present
a gratuitous gift to those who take away our goods…
Irenaeus (c. 180, E/W 1.484, 485) - Dictionary of Early Christian
Beliefs (p. 645):
...[The
Jews] had indeed the tithes of their goods consecrated to Him. In contrast,
those who have received liberty set aside all their possessions for the Lord's
purposes, bestowing joyfully and freely not the less valuable portions of their
property, since they have the hope of better things.
The Didache; The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles (c. 120,
Chapter 11:6&12)
emphasis added:
And let
the apostle when departing take nothing but bread until he arrive at his
resting-place; but if he ask for money, he is a false prophet... But whoever
shall say in the spirit, "Give me money," or things of that kind,
listen not to him; but if he tell you concerning others that are in need that
ye should give unto them, let no one judge him.
[The lead up to this passage describes the general view among
early Christians concerning ministers of the Word (prophets and apostles in
particular) in relation to the matter of taking care of their basic needs.
Early belief held that if a minister of the Word was visiting, he should only
stay one day, at the most two days. If he stayed for more than three days, he
was considered a false prophet (because it was presumed he was abusing his
"ministry" for the purpose of gain and slothful living)!]
Tertullian
- c. 150-220 (Apology, XXXIX, 1-18):
Our
presidents are elders of proved worth, men who have attained this honor not for
a price, but by character. Every man brings some modest coin once a month or
whenever he wishes, and only if he is willing and able; it is a freewill
offering. You might call them the trust-funds of piety; they are spent…on the
support and burial of the poor.
Tertullian
(c. 207, W) - Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs (p. 394):
We do
not now deal with the Law any further than [to remark] that the apostle here
teaches clearly how it has been abolished - by passing from shadow to
substance. That is, it has passed from figurative types to the reality, which
is Christ.
Tertullian
(c. 197, W 3.46) - Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs (p. 9):
Though
we have our treasure chest, it is not made up of purchase money, as of a
religion that has its price. Rather, on the monthly day, if he likes, each puts
in a small donation - but only if it is his pleasure and only if he is able.
For there is no compulsion; all is voluntary.
Hermas (c. 150, W 2.20) - Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs
(p. 9):
Give to
all the needy in simplicity, not hesitating as to whom you are to give or not
to give. Give to all, for God wishes His gifts to be shared among all.
Clement
of Alexandria (c. 195, E) - Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs (p. 541):
Riches
are then to be partaken of rationally and given lovingly.
Ignatius
(c. 105, E) - Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs (p. 393):
If we
still live according to the Jewish Law, we acknowledge that we have not
received grace.
Origen
(c. 248, E) - Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs (p. 394):
We do
not regulate our lives like the Jews. For we are of the opinion that the
literal following of the laws is not the thing that conveys the real meaning of
this legislation.
- C. H. Irwin's Bible Commentary
(p.346) emphasis
added:
[re:
Malachi 3:1] "the messenger of the covenant whom ye delight in." For
whom you eagerly look, expecting Him to give you the full enjoyment of all the
blessings of God's covenant with Israel; little imagining that when He comes He
will abrogate the national and ceremonial, which alone you value (Jer. 31:31-34; Heb. 8:6-13); and will establish the moral
and spiritual (Mat. 5:17-48), which you despise and hate.
- William C. Kaiser, Jr., and Moises Silva (An Introduction to Biblical
Hermeneutics: The Search for Meaning, p.279):
The
Scriptures themselves offer us a way of sorting out which commands have
continuing relevance for our lives and which ones have been rendered obsolete
by God’s having declared their usefulness to have ended. Even though the law is
one, we are taught in the Bible to distinguish at least three different aspects
in that one law. Jesus authorized such a stance when he used the concept in Matthew
23:23 that some things in the law were ‘weightier’ than others. It is this
ranking and prioritizing within the law that establishes the moral aspect of
the law as higher than its civil and ceremonial aspects. In this verse,
justice, mercy and faithfulness are heavier and weightier than the rules for
tithing spices, evidently because the former reflects the nature and character
of God.
- Merrill F. Unger, ed.- New
Unger’s Bible Dictionary (s.v. "New
Testament."):
To understand
the Gospels one must not confuse the kingdom offered to Israel and the church
of Christ. Christ fulfilled the law, died under the law, and set us free from
the law. Therefore, to understand the Gospels one must expect to be on legal
ground up to the cross (Matt. 10:5-6; 15:22-28; Mark 1:44)…. In understanding
the New Covenant it also must be borne in mind that the full-scale revelation
concerning grace is to be found in the Epistles, not in the Gospels. The
Gospels do not present the doctrine of the church.
- Charles C. Ryrie – Basic
Theology (p. 105):
Along
with the change of the priesthood came a change of the law: "For when
there is a change of the priesthood, there must also be a change of the
law." (Hebrews 7:12) "The former regulation is set aside because it
was weak and useless (for the law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is
introduced, by which we draw near to God." (Hebrews 7:18-19) Now the
Mosaic Law was done away in its entirety as a code. It has been replaced by the
law of Christ. The law of Christ contains some new commands (1 Timothy 4:4),
some old ones (Romans 13:9), and some revised ones... All of the laws of the
Mosaic code have been abolished because the code has. Specific Mosaic commands
which are part of the Christian code appear there not as a continuation of part
of the Mosaic Law...but as specifically incorporated into that [Christian]
code, and as such they are binding on believers today. A particular law that
was part of the Mosaic code is done away; that same law, if part of the law of
Christ, is binding.
Charles
C. Ryrie – The Grace of God (p.63) emphasis added:
The law
of Christ is the "system of rules or principles for conduct" of the
Christian today. Although the believer has been set free from the law of Moses,
he is nevertheless under law–the law of Christ. Freedom from the law is
not lawlessness or license. As Paul put it: "being not without law to God,
but under the law to Christ" (1 Corinthians 9:21). It has already been
pointed out that the law of Christ is a definite code containing hundreds of
specific commandments. To be subject to this law is what it means to be under
grace, for the law of Christ is composed of the teachings of grace.
Charles
C. Ryrie – The Grace of God (p.68-69):
It is
apparent that the standards of the law of Christ are not only all-embracing but
they are of the highest order. This makes it necessary for the man who would
meet them to have more power than he has in himself. God who set the standards
has also provided the power in the permanent and powerful indwelling presence
of the Holy Spirit… Thus by this new relationship God has provided the power
which enables every Christian to keep the high standards of the law of Christ.
It does depend, however, on the believer to use this power.
[Romans 7:6 – But now we are delivered from the law, that being
dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in
the oldness of the letter.]
[2 Corinthians 3:6 – Who also hath made us able ministers of the
New Testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth
life.]
Charles
C. Ryrie – The Grace of God (p.74-75) emphasis added:
[Re: motive] Under the Mosaic Law the motive for correct conduct was stated at the
institution of that code in these words: "Now therefore, if ye will obey
My voice indeed, and keep My covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure
unto me above all people; for all the earth is mine: and ye shall be unto me a
kingdom of priests and a holy nation" (Exodus 19:5-6a). Simply stated it
was this: If you obey, you will be blessed… Under the law of Christ the
order has been completely reversed. God has blessed believers with all
spiritual blessings in the heavenlies in Christ
(Ephesians 1:3); therefore, on the basis of this blessing we are expected to
walk worthy of our vocation (Ephesians 4:1)… The motive for obeying the law of
Christ under grace is because we have been blessed rather than in order to
be blessed.
Charles
C. Ryrie – The Grace of God (p.77):
One of
the positive commands of grace is "Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so
fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2).
Charles
C. Ryrie – The Grace of God (p.34) emphasis added:
The - most
distinguishing use of grace in this Epistle [2 Corinthians] (and one of the
most distinctive in the entire New Testament) is its use in connection with the
giving of money (8-9). This is not illogical, for if grace in the New Testament
is particularly displayed in the gift of God’s Son, the word cam well be used
to express the unselfish action involved in the gifts of men. God’s own gift
should inspire and be the ethical motivation for the gifts of men. Grace
means giving for men as well as for God. A number of facets of the relationship
between grace and giving are seen in this central New Testament passage on the
subject. First of all, the source of giving is grace bestowed (8:1). Giving is
due to grace. Men by nature want to receive; Christian men by new nature
want to give. Second, the particular act of giving is called grace (8:4, 6,
7, 19)… Third, the great example for giving is the grace manifested in the
gift of Christ (8:9). The grace of Christ involved the self-renunciation of
His heavenly privileges in order to carry out God’s saving purpose toward man.
The riches which His poverty brought to man include reconciliation, gifts of
the Spirit, hope for the future, and all the blessings of the Christian life.
You know, Paul says, that this is all due to the grace of Christ. Now, because
you know, follow His example and be generous toward other Christians.
Finally, the reward of giving is added grace (9:8). Generosity will be rewarded
by additional grace. This undoubtedly includes sufficient material provision
for the giver as well as the development of his character. In other words, God
gives or "begraces" the giving Christian
with sufficient money and character in order that he may continue to want to
and be able to give. Paul concludes this section, however, by reminding his
readers again that this grace of giving is entirely due to the work of the
grace of God in them (9:14).
- Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart -
How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth:
The Old
Testament is not our testament. The Old Testament represents an Old Covenant,
which is one we are no longer obligated to keep. Therefore we can hardly begin
by assuming that the Old Covenant should automatically be binding upon us. We
have to assume, in fact, that none of its stipulations (laws) are binding upon
us unless they are renewed in the New Covenant. That is, unless an Old
Testament law is somehow restated or reinforced in the New Testament, it is no
longer directly binding on God’s people (cf. Rom. 6:14-15).
- People's New Testament Commentary
(electronic edition) - emphasis added:
[Matthew 23:23] - "Ye pay tithe of mint, anise and cummin."
Insignificant garden herbs. The Jews were bidden to pay tithes of the
fruits of the field and of trees (Lev_27:30). The Pharisees were scrupulous
in paying tithes of garden herbs that were almost valueless, but
neglected much more important duties.
People's
New Testament Commentary - The Epistle of Paul to the Hebrews; Chapter VII (emphasis added):
(vs.
18) A
disannulling of the commandment going before. The old law and the Aaronic priesthood are abrogated because of their
imperfection. They could not make men perfect. (vs. 19) For the law made
nothing perfect. The law was only a preparatory arrangement. It did
not fit men for eternal life. The bringing in of a better hope. See the
Revision. The idea is: The law was disannulled and a "better
hope" brought in, that of the gospel, by which we draw nigh unto God.
People's
New Testament Commentary - The Second Epistle of Paul to the Corinthian; Chapter
VIII (emphasis
added):
(vs.
3) For to their
power. It was not the greatness of their contribution, but the fact that
they gave not only up to, but even beyond their ability, which made their
liberality so rich. The widow who gave her mite did more than the rich men who
cast in out of their abundance. Willing of themselves. Required no
urging.
(vs.
5) And this . .
. not as we had hoped. The thought is that they exceeded our hope. They
consecrated themselves, and hence, held that all they had was the Lord's. When
church members give their own selves, there will be no complaint that
their money is withheld.
(vs.
8-9) I speak not
by commandment. He levies no tax by command. The giving must
be free and cheerful in order to be blessed. He encourages them by the forwardness
of others; the example of the Macedonian brethren, and by that of Christ. For
ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the chiefest of motives to giving. Our Lord gave up all for
us. He became poor that we might be rich in heavenly riches. If he gave himself
for us, what shall we give for him? Compare Phil. 2:7. Christ parted with
riches and took poverty; with glory and took humiliation; with bliss and took
suffering, all for our sakes. The passage compares Christ's pre-existent state
with that he had on earth.
(vs.
10) Herein I
give my advice. Not a "commandment" (verse 8), but
advice...
(vs.
12-14) For if
there is first a willing mind. The willing mind had been shown in the
readiness "to will." The willing mind is essential to the
acceptance of the gift. If there be this pre-requisite, then God accepts the
gift and measures it according to a man's means. I mean not that
other men be eased. I wish all to give according to what they have,
other churches as well as you. Nor do I mean to burden you that the saints at
Jerusalem may be at ease. But by an equality. There is a lack at
Jerusalem; let your abundance supply it. So, too, if you be in want, they must
supply it if they have abundance. The church is a band of loving brethren. Where
one lacks others should supply, that all may be equally provided.
People's
New Testament Commentary - The Second Epistle of Paul to the Corinthian;
Chapter IX
(emphasis added):
(vs.
5) As a matter of bounty. As a free gift, cheerfully bestowed; not something extorted from
them...
(vs.
6-7) He which soweth bountifully. Giving is not a sacrifice, but
rather a sowing. As the farmer gives his seed to the earth, and then reaps as
he has sown, so giving is a sowing. If there is a spare sowing there will be
spare reaping; if liberal sowing, liberal reaping. See the same principle
expressed in Exod. 25:2; 1 Chron. 29:14, 17; Ps. 102:9; Luke 6:38; Acts 20:35. The
lesson of this verse is, give generously. The next verse teaches how
to give. Every man according as he purposeth.
The giving must be cheerful. It is the cheerful giver whom the Lord
loves. Where one gives by compulsion, or to secure popular applause, or
grudgingly, he is not approved.
- The 1599 Geneva Study Bible -
Hebrews Chapter 7 (emphasis added):
(vs.
18) (9)For there
is verily a disannulling of the (h)commandment going before for the
weakness and unprofitableness thereof.
(9) Again, that no man object that the
last priesthood was added to make a perfect one by joining them both together,
he proves that the first was made void by the later as unprofitable, by
the nature of them both. For how could those material and transitory things
sanctify us, either by themselves, or by being joined with another?
(h) The ceremonial law. [Note: the
ceremonial law of the Covenant included tithes, offerings, various ordinances,
etc.]
The
1599 Geneva Study Bible - 2 Corinthians, Chapter 8 (emphasis added):
(vs.
10) (5)And
herein I give [my] advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun
before, not only to do, but also to (g)be forward a year ago.
(5) He takes good heed that he seem not
to wrest it out of them by force, for unless it is voluntary, God does
not accept it.
(g) Not only to do, but also to do willingly: for he notes out of
a ready willingness, without any enforcement by any other men. And much
less did it come out of ambition and vain glory.
- John Nelson Darby - Synopsis to
the Books of the Bible; Hebrews, Chapter 7 (emphasis added):
(vs.
18-28) For there is
in fact a disannulling of the commandment that existed previously, because it
was unprofitable (for the law brought nothing to perfection); and there is the
bringing in of a better hope, by which we draw nigh to God.
Precious difference! A commandment to man, sinful and afar from God, replaced
by a hope, a confidence, founded on grace and on divine promise, through
which we can come even into God's presence. The law, doubtless, was good; but
separation still subsisted between man and God. The law made nothing perfect.
God was ever perfect, and human perfection was required; all must be according
to what divine perfection required of man. But sin was there, and the law was
consequently without power (save to condemn); its ceremonies and ordinances
were but figures, and a heavy yoke. Even that which temporarily relieved the
conscience brought sin to mind and never made the conscience perfect towards
God. They were still at a distance from Him.. Grace brings the soul to God,
who is known in love and in a righteousness which is for us. The character of
the new priesthood bore the stamp in all its features, of its superiority to
that which existed under the order of the law and with which the whole system
of the law either stood or fell. For the law made high priests who had the
infirmities of men, for they were men themselves; the oath of God, which came after
the law, establishes the Son, when He is perfected for ever, consecrated
in heaven unto God. We see here that, although there was an analogy and the
figures of heavenly things, there is more of contrast than of comparison
in this epistle. The legal priests had the same infirmities as other men; Jesus
has a glorified priesthood according to the power of an endless life. The
introduction of this new priesthood, exercised in heaven, implies a change
in the sacrifices and in the covenant. This the inspired writer develops
here setting forth the value of the sacrifice of Christ, and the long-promised
new covenant. The direct connection is with the sacrifices; but he turns aside
for a moment to the two covenants, a so wide-embracing and all-weighty
consideration for the Christian Jews who had been under the first.
- John F. Walvoord,
Roy B. Zuck - The Bible Knowledge Commentary:
Old Testament (p. 1585.):
While
not requiring a tithe of believers today, the New Testament does speak of God's
blessing on those who give generously to the needs of the church and especially
to those who labor in the Word.
- Robert C. Girard - Brethren,
Hang Together (p. 184-186):
(p.
184) ...These
assumptions have led us to reject some commonly accepted elements of typical
church fund raising. Here are two examples: [The
first is] "Storehouse tithing." "Normal"
evangelical church life includes the use of strong encouragement, buttressed
with some pretty hard-to-avoid Old Testament texts, to motivate members to
bring to the church ten percent of all they earn for the purpose of financing
local operation. In our local church we have chosen to place little or no
emphasis on "storehouse tithing." The prime reason being that the New
Testament places little or no emphasis on it. We think that is reason enough
that the church should not...
(p.
185) ...And ten
percent is too limited a figure to describe the response of genuine love. [The second example is]
"Spiritualization." (Or perhaps more accurately "mythologization.") This is the process by which
pastors, church treasurers, and pressured board members, seek to motivate
people to give or to pledge, by making it sound as though giving one's money to
"this church" is the highest act of personal commitment to God. As a
reward for participation in the current year's find drive, one is led to
believe he will receive God's special blessing (and furthermore, participation
may be the only way to escape the sickness, poverty, and despair God may allow
to descend upon non participants!) Of course, I'm overstating the case - though
I have heard appeals that were not far from that. It is common to tell
Christians that their giving proves their love for Christ, their loyalty to the
church, and their obedience to the Holy Spirit. The Sunday
"collection" is spiritualized by giving it sanctified names like,
"Worship in Tithes and Offerings." (We hope it will be worship.
Failing that, let it at least pay the bills.)
(p.
185-186) In
addition to these two, we have had serious questions about other things - the
"annual stewardship drive," the "every-member canvass," and
even the public passing of the offering plates. They all seem to carry
nonverbal messages and rely on motivations which are not consistent with the
basic biblical assumptions. Guilt as motivation, appeal to carnal desires,
social pressure, and the implied threat of nonacceptance
are too frequently a part of these accepted approaches to financial stewardship.
Such pressures as these exclude love, stifle trust, by-pass the personal
leadership and motivation of the Holy Spirit. The giving acts can just as
readily flow from the "lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the
pride of life," as from love, trust and the Holy Spirit. If the New
Testament is clear on anything, it is on the fact that the only works from our
lives that have eternal significance - true spiritual value before God - are
works that flow from love, trust, and the Holy Spirit. So, in our mission to
set people free to walk in the Spirit, we began early to question and to
retreat from stewardship motivations that could lead to works (giving, etc.)
without true spiritual value.
[Robert C. Girard is the author of the books "Brethren, Hang Loose"
and "Brethren, Hang Together." Both books (which are fantastic books)
are out of print but can generally be found by browsing various online book
stores. These books tell the story of a pastor and his denominational church
that pursued a New Testament style of meeting, which cost them most everything
traditional and common, but in the process they discovered what it truly means
to see Christ Jesus become Head and Lord of His Church.]
- John Wesley's Explanetary Notes (s.v.
"1 Corinthians 16:2) emphasis added:
[On the first day of the week, each of you should set aside and
save some of your money in proportion to what you have, so that no collections
will have to be made when I come. (1 Cor. 16:2 - ISV)] Let every one - Not the rich only:
let him also that hath little, gladly give of that little. According as he hath
been prospered - Increasing his alms as God increases his substance. According
to this lowest rule of Christian prudence, if a man when he has or gains one
pound give a tenth to God, when he has or gains an hundred he will give the
tenth of this also. And yet I show unto you a more excellent way. He
that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Stint yourself to no proportion at
all. But lend to God all you can.
[JWEN;
Heb 7:18] - For
there is implied in this new and everlasting priesthood [the priesthood of Christ], and in the new dispensation
connected therewith, a disannulling of the preceding commandment - An
abrogation of the Mosaic law. For the weakness and unprofitableness
thereof - For its insufficiency either to justify or to sanctify.
[JWEN;
Eph 2:15] - Having
abolished by his suffering in the flesh the cause of enmity between the Jews
and gentiles, even the law of ceremonial commandments, through his
decrees - Which offer mercy to all; see Col_2:14.
That he might form the two - Jew and gentile. Into one new man - one mystical
body.
John
Wesley - "On the Use of Money" (excerpt from a sermon preached in
1744):
…give
all you can; or in other words, give all you have to God. Do not stint yourself,
like a Jew rather than a Christian, to this or that proportion. Render unto God
not a tenth, not a third, not half, but all that is God's (be it more or less)
by employing all on yourself, your household, the household of faith and all
mankind, in such a manner that you may give a good account of your stewardship
when ye can be no longer stewards; in such a manner as the oracles of God
direct, both by general and particular precepts; in such a manner, that
whatever ye do may be "a sacrifice of a sweet-smelling savour
to God" [cf. Lev. 8:21], and that every act may be rewarded in that day
when the Lord cometh with all his saints.
- Jamieson, Fausset
and Brown Commentary (s.v. "2 Corinthians
9:7") emphasis
added:
…according as he purposeth in his heart--Let the full consent of the
free will go with the gift [ALFORD]. Opposed to "of necessity,"
as "grudgingly" is opposed to "a cheerful giver" (Pro_22:9;
Pro_11:25; Isa_32:8).
[J,F,B;
1 Corinthians 16:2] emphasis added: "lay
by him" -- though there be not a weekly public collection,
each is privately to set apart a definite proportion of his weekly
income for the Lord's cause and charity… "as God hath prospered
him" --literally, "whatsoever he may be prospered in," or
"may by prosperity have acquired" [ALFORD], (Mat_25:15-29; 2Co_8:12).
[2 Corinthians 8:12 - For if there be first a willing mind,
it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath
not.]
[J,F,B;
2 Corinthians 8:12] emphasis added: "according
to that a man hath" --The oldest manuscripts omit "a
man." Translate, "According to whatsoever it have"; the
willing mind, or "readiness" to will, is personified [ALFORD]. Or
better, as BENGEL, "He is accepted according to whatsoever he have";
so 2Co_9:7, The Lord loveth a cheerful giver."
Compare as to David, 1Ki_8:18. God accepts the will for the deed. He
judges not according to what a man has the opportunity to do, but according to
what he would do if he had the opportunity (compare Mar_14:8; and the widow's
mite, Luk_21:3-4).
- Bruce Metzger – The Oxford
Companion to the Bible:
The New
Testament nowhere explicitly requires tithing to maintain a ministry or a place
of assembly.
- Nelson’s Bible Dictionary (s.v. "tithe") emphasis added:
In the
New Testament the words tithe and tithing appear only eight times <Matt.
23:23, Luke 11:42, 18:12, Heb. 7:5-6, 8-9. All of these passages refer to Old
Testament usage and to current Jewish practice. Nowhere does the New
Testament expressly command Christians to tithe. However, as believers we
are to be generous in sharing our material possessions with the poor and for
the support of Christian ministry. Christ Himself is our model in giving. Giving
is to be voluntary, willing, cheerful, and given in the light of our
accountability to God. Giving should be systematic and by no means limited
to a tithe of our incomes. We recognize that all we have is from God. We are
called to be faithful stewards of all our possessions <Rom 14:12, 1 Cor 9:3-14, 16:1-3, 2 Cor
8-9>.
- Ron Rhodes – The Complete Book
of Bible Answers:
I do
not believe that Christians today are under the ten percent tithe system. We
are not obligated to percentage tithe at all. There is not a single verse in
the New Testament where God specifies that we should give ten percent of their
income to the church. . . . We are to give as we are able. For some this will
mean less than ten percent, but for others whom God has materially blessed,
this will mean much more than ten percent.
- Rhodes Thompson – Stewards
Shaped by Grace:
Another
discovery is now revealed: God’s grace shown in those churches [in India] was
complemented by people’s voluntary response [quotes 8:3]. Precisely! No
legalistic response to the amazing grace of God is appropriate. That is why
Paul wrote, "Every man according as he purposeth
in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all
grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things,
may abound to every good work… (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). God’s grace obviously
encourages, but does not force, the decision to be made. However, when faith
responds to grace, God’s power at work within that life . . . or within the
churches . . . is able to do far more abundantly than all that people can ask
or think (Eph. 3:20). What we cannot do or cannot even imagine being done,
God’s grace working through our faith does.
- Charles Haddon Spurgeon (Volume
32, page 213):
In the religion
of Christ there is no taxation. Everything is of love.
- John MacArthur, Jr. Commentary
on the Book of Romans 9-16 (p.233):
…Christians
are not under obligation to give a specified amount to the work of their heavenly
Father. In none of their forms do the tithe or other Old Testament levies apply
to Christians.
John
MacArthur – Thoughts On Tithing (excerpt from sermon preached at Grace
Community Church in Panorama City, CA):
Tithing,
basically, is never, ever advocated in the New Testament; it is never taught in
the New Testament—never!
- William Barclay – Daily Study
Bible Series: The Letters to the Corinthians (p.163):
[1 Corinthians 16:1-2] Here he [Paul] calls
it ["the collection"] a
'logia'; the word means an extra collection. A ‘logia’ was something which was
the opposite of a tax which a man had to pay; it was an extra piece of giving.
A man never satisfies his Christian duty by discharging the obligations which
he can legally be compelled to fulfill. The question of Jesus was, 'What more
are you doing than others?' (Matt. 5:47)
William
Barclay – Daily Study Bible Series: The Letter to the Hebrews (p.72-177):
[Hebrews 7:5-19] The law of tithes is laid down in Numbers 18:20-21. There Aaron is told
that the Levites will have no actual territory in the promised land laid down
for them but that they are to receive a tenth part of everything for their
service… From beginning to end the Jewish priesthood was dependent on physical
things… The whole paraphernalia of the ceremonial law was wiped out in the
priesthood of Jesus.
- Albert Barnes - Barnes Notes
(electronic edition) emphasis added:
[Matthew 23:23 - "Ye pay tithe"] A tenth part. The law required the
Jews to devote a tenth part of all their property to the support of the
Levites, Num_18:20-24. Another tenth part they paid for the service of the
sanctuary, commonly in cattle or grain, but where they lived far from the place
of worship they changed it to money, Deu_14:22-24. Besides these, there was to
be every third year a tenth part given to the poor, to be eaten at their own
dwellings Deu_14:28-29; so that nearly one-third of the property of the Jews
was devoted to religious services by law. This was besides the voluntary
offerings which they made. How much more mild and gentle are the laws of
Christianity under which we live!
Albert Barnes – Barnes Notes (p.23-26) emphasis added:
[Hebrews 7:12-18] But the meaning is, that since a large number of laws -- constituting a
code of considerable extent and importance -- was given for the regulation of
the priesthood, and in reference to the rites of religion, which they were to
observe or superintend, it followed that when their office was superseded by
"one of a wholly different order," the law which had regulated
them vanished also, or ceased to be binding.
- Pastor Butch Yu (Word
International Ministries – Singapore) – Tithing:
…we
have no explicit records of Jesus commanding His disciples and followers to tithe.
The Book of Hebrews, on the other hand, mentioned Abraham paying his tithe to
Melchizedek and Levi paying their tithes to Melchizedek through Abraham. But
still the explicit instruction to follow the example of Abraham and Levi is
absent in the text. The author never instructed his readers to follow as well.
What is explicit and clear in the Epistles is Paul’s instructions to
"share material possessions to care for the needs of the poor (1 Cor. 16:1-3; 2 Cor. 8-9; Eph.
4:28) and to sustain the Christian ministry (1 Cor.
9). He urges and commends generosity (2 Cor. 9:6;
8:1-5) but never once he demand, as a command from God, that any specific
amount be given."… Both the NT writers and the Early Church Father
considered tithing as a practice of the old and it has been replaced by a new
principle of generous giving. Christians are no longer driven by the Law but by
their love and the goodness of God…
- Glenn J. Schwartz (The Billy
Graham Center – Wheaton College) – Cutting The Apron Strings (article):
One of
the first steps is to shift the emphasis in biblical teaching from the
"law of tithing" to the "joy of giving." Consider the
building of the tabernacle in the time of Moses (Exod.
35-36). The people willingly and joyfully brought so many things forward that
the builders asked Moses to stop them! When the temple was being built (1
Chronicles 29), King David and other leaders set a positive example of giving
for others to follow. David reminded the people that they were giving in
response to what God had done for them. When rebuilding the walls around
Jerusalem (Neh. 3), the people willingly donated
their labor to get the job done. One of the great disappointments in
stewardship teaching in mission-established churches is the failure to convey
the joy of giving. There are at least two possible reasons. One is that there
is not first the requisite psychological transfer of ownership. In other words,
ownership must precede stewardship. Second, true spiritual fulfillment is not
present, so giving (or tithing) will be out of a sense of duty, not the joy of
the Lord. Giving should overflow from a full heart, or what Alan Tippett has called "the inward dimension of
mission." (Alan R. Tippett, Verdict Theology
in Missionary Theory, William Carey Library, Pasadena, 1972. See the
chapter on "The Psalmist and the Inward Dimension of Mission.")
- Prophet Jonathan Hansen (World
Ministries International) - Is Tithing For Today? (excerpts from May-June
2000 Newsletter) emphasis added:
I have
no problems with people giving ten percent to their local churches. In fact, I
believe we should give much more for the extension of the kingdom of God and
the love for the Bride of Jesus Christ… The reality is that in the New
Testament Christians now usually give much more than just ten percent to
support the kingdom of God, the Bride of Christ. But, that does not
necessarily mean supporting only the local church. If the pastors who do
not realize this truth would only teach truth instead of taking Scriptures out
of context to make a pretext, then their church would be blessed with even more
money, not less, as God will cause even more people to be drawn to a local
church where the pastor truly supports His [i.e.
the Lord's] Bride and not control it to build a local kingdom
instead of God's kingdom… Jesus will surely judge many pastors today for
telling their people not to give their finances to the ones the Holy Spirit is
asking them to support. I would never command people to give all their tithes
to the ministry I lead, nor would I tell the members of the church that I
pastor to give all their tithes to the church. I tell them to pray about it and
ask God where He wants them to give His money. I know that every
Christian ought to support his own local church in some amount. Depending on
how faithfully that church does the work of God, the Holy Spirit will prompt
the person to give. But, to tell them to give all is sin. Likewise, to tell
them not to give to another person's ministry or to minister where the Holy
Spirit is urging them to be faithful in giving is sin. I have no problems with
people giving 10%, 20%, or more to the local assembly they attend. But, let's
make sure it is out of a willing heart as the Holy Spirit directs…
Is tithing for today? No! Today it all belongs to God. We should give
much more than ten percent! The law was given to show us our selfishness and
our sins. Shalom.
- Evangelist Gary Frye – Gary
Frye Ministries (Watchman On The Wall telecast):
Abraham
is our father according to faith not the flesh. He is our father according to
the promise not circumcision, tithing, Sabbath keeping, or any other law
observance. The olive tree we are grafted into is not natural Israel of the
flesh (the present political / geographical regime) but the spiritual tree.
- Leonard Ravenhill
– Heart Breathings (excerpt):
Our
present "Christianity" sputters along on the two cylinders of tithing
and token commitment instead of speeding along on the eight cylinders of total
commitment.
- J.B. Sparks - God's Plan For A Scriptural
New Testament Church (excerpt from book):
[Re: Tithing, from chapter 6] Now, let's take a look at tithing. Is tithing for
today? No, I believe that tithing is not for today's New Testament churches. It
was part of the law for the nation of Israel. God said it was. He said tithing
was (1) for the nation of Israel to give, (2) for the tribe of the Levites to
receive, and (3) was of the Law... It is not for today's New Testament churches
or God would have informed us in His Word. Furthermore, in summary, tithing is
not for today because: (1) it is clear that tithing is of the law, and Jesus
fulfilled the law, (2) there is no command in the New Testament for tithing,
(3) there is no example of a New Testament church tithing, (4) there is no
example in the New Testament of a Christian tithing, and 5) tithing is not for
Christians, because the New Testament does give specific directions on how
Christians are to give and tithing is not included.
[This excerpt from the book (including the complete chapter) is
viewable online at the following URL: http://cnview.com/churches_today/chapter_6_truth_about_the_church.htm]
- Kenneth S. Wuest
– Word Studies In The Greek New Testament, Vol. 2 (p.172):
[Hebrews 10:1] …Expositor’s says in this connection: "The explanation
consists in this that the law had only ‘a shadow of the good things that were
to be, not the very image of the things.’ Skian (shadow)
is in the emphatic place, as that characteristic of the law which determines
its inadequacy. ‘A shadow’ suggests indefiniteness and unsubstantiality;
a mere indication that a reality exists. Eikon
(image) suggests what is in itself substantial and also gives a true
representation of that which it images. The eikon
(image) brings before us under the conditions of space, as we can understand
it, that which is spiritual’ (Westcott)… The contrast is between a bare
intimation that good things were to be given, and an actual presentation of
these good things in an apprehensible form. It is implied that this latter is
given in Christ; but what is asserted is, that the law did not present the
coming realities in a form which brought them within the comprehension of the
people." The fact that the sacrifices were constantly renewed shows that
the law possessed no more than a mere shadow of the coming good which was
exhibited in those sacrifices. Expositor’s quotes Davidson as saying in this
connection; "No repetition of the shadow can amount to the
substance."
[The tithing ordinance (instituted to support the Levitical priesthood because of the curse, which prohibited
the children of Israel from "drawing near" to meet with God due to
their sin): Numbers18:20-24 – And the LORD spake
unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their
land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am
thy part and thine inheritance among the children
of Israel. And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel
for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service
of the tabernacle of the congregation. Neither must the children of Israel
henceforth come nigh the tabernacle of the congregation, lest they bear sin,
and die. But the Levites shall do the service of the tabernacle of the
congregation, and they shall bear their iniquity: it shall be a statute
for ever throughout your generations, that among the children of Israel they
have no inheritance. But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer
as an heave offering unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to
inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they
shall have no inheritance.]
Kenneth
S. Wuest – Word Studies In The Greek New Testament,
Vol. 2 (p.132-133) emphasis added:
[Re: Hebrews 7:11]
The words "being changed" are the translation of metatithemi
which means "to transpose, to put one thing in the place of another…"
Thus, the New Testament was substituted for the First Testament… Thus, if a
transfer to a new and different order of priesthood was to be effected, it must
be by reason of a transfer to a new basis. The law governing the priesthood as
found in the Mosaic economy must be abrogated in favor of another
which would provide for an order of priesthood that would function successfully
in the very thing in which the Aaronic priesthood
failed. Translation: For there being a transfer of the priesthood (to another
order), of necessity also of the law there is a transfer.
Kenneth
S. Wuest – Word Studies In The Greek New Testament,
Vol. 2 (p.135) emphasis
added: [Hebrews 7:18, 19] These two verses take up the idea
of verse 16. They speak of the negative and positive result of the superceding of the fleshly ordinance by the power of an
indestructible life. On the one hand there is a setting aside of the
previous enactment. On the other, there is the bringing in of a better hope [by which we draw near to God – the curse is removed].
The word "disannulling" is the translation of athetesis,
the fundemental idea of which is the doing away of
something established… It was set aside because of its weakness and unprofitableness. The Levitical economy
was perfect for the purpose for which it was instituted, that of being an index
finger pointing to the High Priest, Messiah. But where it came to the place
where a sacrifice would be demanded of it that would pay for sin, it was found
to be weak and unprofitable.
[Hebrews 9:8 emphasis added – The Holy Ghost this
signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest,
while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: Which was a figure
for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and
sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as
pertaining to the conscience; Which stood only in meats and drinks, and
divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until
the time of reformation.]
- Watchman Nee – The Normal
Christian Church Life (p.152-153) emphasis added:
It is
right for the brethren to give occasional gifts to the workers [i.e. those in the ministry], as the
Philippians did to Paul, but they must not bear the responsibility of any. The
churches have no official obligations regarding the workers, and the latter
must see to it that the former do not take such obligations upon themselves.
God permits us [i.e. the "workers"]
to accept gifts, but it is not His will that others become responsible for us.
Gifts of love may be sent to the workers from their brethren in the Lord, but no
believers must regard themselves as under any legal obligations towards them.
Not only have the churches no official responsibility towards the workers; they
are not even responsible for their board, lodgings, or traveling expenses. The
entire financial responsibility of the work rests upon those to whom it has
been committed by God… 2 Corinthians 7:2; 2 Corinthians 12:14; 1 Thessalonians
2:5; 2 Thessalonians 3:8… From these passages we see clearly the attitude of
the apostle. He was not willing to impose any burden upon others or in any way
to take advantage of them. And this must be our attitude too. Not only should
we receive no salary, we should be careful not to take the slightest advantage
of any of our brethren… God has no use for an unbelieving worker, nor has He
any use for a loveless church.
Watchman
Nee – The Normal Christian Church Life (p.140-141):
…as a
matter of fact, in spiritual work there is need for an unsettled income,
because that necessitates intimate fellowship with God, constant clear
revelation of His will, and direct divine support… Faith is a most important
factor in God’s service, for without it there can be no truly spiritual work;
but our faith requires training and strengthening, and material needs are a
means used in God’s hand toward that end.
Watchman
Nee – The Normal Christian Church Life (p.143) emphasis added:
If our
hope is in men, then when their resources dry up, ours will dry up too. We have
no board behind us, but we have a Rock beneath us; and no one standing on this
Rock will ever be put to shame. Men and circumstances may change, but we shall
carry on in a steady course if our reliance is on God. All the silver and the
gold are His, and none who walk in His will can ever come to want. We
are apt to trust in the children of the Lord who in bygone days have sent us
gifts, but they will all pass away. We must keep our eyes fixed on the
unchanging God whose grace and faithfulness continue forever.
- Pastor/Evangelist Phil Scovell – Robbing God? (booklet – excerpts):
Since I
had been taught tithing from childhood, I immediately, upon leaving home for
Bible College, began tithing from my earnings. The first check my wife and I
earned following our wedding, and every paycheck thereafter, we tithed. In
fact, soon after marriage, we squeezed our giving to fifteen percent. Shoot!
Everybody wants to be blessed; even newly weds; especially newly weds! Later we
even gave twenty-five percent of our income to the church as I traveled as a Baptist
evangelist holding revivals. I do not want to mislead the reader so I will
parenthetically state from the beginning that tithing is not only unscriptural
but simply not found in the Bible as a New Testament doctrine. I will also
state that those who teach that tithing is God's way of financially blessing
His own are being less than Scripturally honest and are doctrinally
inconsistent. I even challenge those teachers of tithing to "put their
money where their mouth is" and cease from teaching something they know
isn't Biblical I.E. tithing… Churches need money to function because they have
become businesses rather than ministries. Pastors are fearful they won't be
able to pay the church expenses; water, lights, staff, radio/television
programs, monthly newsletters, special guest speakers, trips to mission fields,
new buildings, improvements on the old building, staff cars, gymnasiums, school
buildings, fellowship halls, new carpet, commodes, air conditioning, and we
mustn't forget the pastor's salary. Do pastors worry about such? As a pastor, I
can guarantee we do… I really began examining tithing a few years ago when I
recognized that what I had been taught was not working. I was taught, and I
preached it, too, that if one tithed, financial blessings would always dog me.
It never happened! I was told if you didn't tithe, you would be chastened by
God and He would get His money out of you somehow. It never happened! I was
taught that if your finances were in disarray and you were not tithing, that
was the reason. Of course, if that one was true, then those whose finances were
regular and consistent had to be tithers. I knew
unsaved people who had better financial stability than I ever had as a
Christian and I knew they weren't tithers. On my
knees in my most desperate hour, I cried out to God and begged Him not to take
away my desire for giving. I knew it my heart it was the one last thing I had
which obligated God to bless me. I gave when my family went without food. I
tithed when my house payments and rent were past due. I tithed when the
utilities were two months behind, I tithed even when I lost my home and nothing
I had been taught on tithing proved true. I went for a four-year period hardly
giving a thing to the Lord. I was not tithing, I was not giving, I did not give
an offering; except occasionally, and the truth was, I did not have any money
to give. Was I afraid. You bet! I knew God was going to kill me if I didn't
start that tithing bit up again and, bless God, I tried for four years to start
tithing over and over and over and over again. Every single time I tried,
things got worse instead of better. Every single time I went to my knees and
prayed over my dilemma. "Why wasn't God's Word working?" God
continually, for that period of time, told me He didn't need or want my money.
Right in the middle of the whole thing, God gave me a house; providing both the
down payment and a way of keeping my monthly payment to a level I was able to
afford. How could the Lord bless me when I wasn't tithing. On my knees,
therefore, I sought the Lord and beg for understanding… The Greek word for
"tithe" and it's related forms; (tithes and tithing) appears seven
times in the New Testament. Likewise "tenth" appears twice in
reference to the "tithe." In not one of these cases… does the Bible
teach tithing is for today. The practice of tithing is conspicuously absent
from the New Testament epistles; the letters to the churches. If tithing were
to be taught to God's people, why would He forget to include such instructions
in the letters He sent to the churches? He didn't forget...it simply doesn't
exist. Something I notice about those who constantly affirm that healing and
the gift of tongues isn't for today always make a point to say that such
doctrine isn't taught in the New Testament epistles so why believe in it? Funny
how many of those same unbelievers of the ministry of the Holy Spirit fail to
tell us that tithing isn't once mentioned in the epistles but they are
determined to make it a doctrine… A marriage IS not confirmed by the number of
times one confesses love for another. It is how they live which confirms and
completes their relationship. As love, therefore is common to marriage, so
giving is in our fellowship with God. If it isn't natural, it isn't Scriptural.
Does that make it wrong to give because you wish to be blessed? We should only
give because we are blessed! We are blessed because of Christ. If we are
blessed of God, then giving will be natural. Paul makes it plain: Our giving
should be done as an act of our own will [2
Corinthians 9:6-10]. We need to decide what we will give and it
should be given when the Christians gather as a body weekly. There should be no
set amount except by the one doing the giving. It should be a reflection of our
thankfulness to God for His blessings to us. We should expect a harvest and do
so by faith. We should expect to experience God's grace in all that we do in
His name and our giving should be natural and not forced. Our giving is not a
mathematical equation by which we calculate our spirituality but rather an
expression of our love for the one who gave Himself for us that we might be
made rich.
[entire booklet available online
at – http://associate.com/ministry_files/The_Reading_Room/Doctrines_n_Theology_2/Robbing_GodTithing.shtml]
- Dr. Ernest L. Martin, Ph.D. –
The Tithing Dilemma (p.7-8):
The
Bible defines "sin" as the transgression of law (1 John 3:4) – any
law! And in the Bible the use of the word "sin" has to do with
violating any law of God that God has given for people to observe… When one
breaks any of these laws that God has ordained for certain people to do (things
to perform or not to perform), that person is reckoned to be
"sinning"… There is nothing more clear in the Bible than the teaching
of God about the ordained tithe. The Bible shows who were to pay the tithe, who
were to receive the tithe, the types of products that we to be tithed, who was
not to tithe, how the tithe was to be used, along with regulations that gave
limitations and restrictions on its use, yet these laws of God are being
violated wholesale by preachers, priests, evangelists and theologians who want
a ready money supply for their religious or church work. In doing so they are
deliberately committing outright "sin."
Dr.
Ernest L. Martin, Ph.D. – The Tithing Dilemma (p.10-12):
Let us
face the issue squarely without beating around the bush. The Bible makes it
clear (from the time of Moses onward) that the Israelites were to pay tithe.
But in doing so, they were strictly ordered by God to pay the tithe (the tenth)
to one group of people, and one group only. To whom was the tithe to be paid?
They were the Levites who (among other things) ministered in the Temple. Note
Numbers 18:21. "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the
tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service of the tabernacle of the
congregation." For preachers and church leaders to change the direction of
paying the tithe from that of the Temple to the service of a Christian ministry
is to do so without any authority whatever from God.
Dr.
Ernest L. Martin, Ph.D. – The Tithing Dilemma (p.8-9):
It is
perfectly proper to have funds given to religious organizations (even
generously if people so desire) in order for them to perform the works God has
given them to do… Having funds to operate is an essential factor for any
religious organization, but the problem with preachers and church leaders is
the manner in which those funds are obtained… These are strong words (and they
may be shocking to some who have not studied the Scripture on the matter of
tithing), but they can be shown to be true. When the tithing laws recorded in
the Bible are really comprehended, it will be seen that their misuse by
ministers today has degraded those sacred laws into a monstrous system of
money-gathering which can only be called (by its proper title) "The Sin of
Tithing Today."
- J. Vernon McGee - Thru the
Bible Commentary Series, Galatians (p.23) emphasis added by McGee:
Paul
now calls the religion in which he was brought up the "Jews'
religion." Paul was saved, not in
Judaism, but from
Judaism.
J. Vernon McGee – Through the Bible
Commentary Series, Malachi (p.84):
Under grace God wants you to give as you are able to give. For
some people that would be less than the tithe. And I’m of the opinion that a
great many in this affluent society ought to be giving more to God.
J. Vernon McGee – Through the Bible
Commentary Series, Malachi (p.85):
Again I would remind you that we are not under the tithe system
today. There are many humble believers with very little income for whom a tenth
would be too much to give.
J. Vernon McGee – Through the Bible
Commentary Series, Malachi (p.86):
There is no such thing today as that which is called ‘storehouse
giving.’ That’s not quite the way we give, because Israel’s giving was in the
form of produce.
- Pastor Rick Walston,
Ph.D. - The Spiritual Discipline of Christian Stewardship, Lecture# 4:
"Stewardship Versus Tithing" (excerpts) comments in brackets are Rick Walston’s:
Giving
reflects faith in the God who provides (Philippians 4:18-19)… Our giving should
be sacrificial. "Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and
their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they
gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on
their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this
service to the saints… But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech,
in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us—see that you also
excel in this grace of giving. I am not commanding you [no "tithe
law" here!], but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it
with the earnestness of others. [and who does he compare our earnestness
against?] For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was
rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might
become rich" (2 Cor. 8:2-4 +7-9)… The way you
handle money tells God how trustworthy you are (Luke 16:10-15)… Give willingly
and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Note these main points from this text: 1
– You will reap what you sow. Give little, reap little. Give big, reap big; 2 –
Give what he has decided in his heart to give (why doesn’t he say 10%? - there
is no law of tithe here); 3 – Do not give reluctantly [as some do, begrudgingly];
4 – Do not give under compulsion [not be forced by some legalism -- most
Christians feel forced to give their 10%]; 5 – God loves a cheerful giver. You
cannot be a cheerful giver if, (one) you family is hungry (two) someone has
forced you, by a twisting of the Scriptures—i.e., Malachi 3:10—to feel guilty
if you don’t give… I am not very excited about the various double meanings that
people give to Scriptures. You know, people say things like, "This is what
Jesus said, but this is the hidden double meaning." However, there is an
interesting point that someone ought to at least make concerning this next
passage. "Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his
words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians.
‘Teacher,’ they said, ‘we know you are a man of integrity and that you teach
the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by men, because
you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it
right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?’ But Jesus, knowing their evil intent,
said, ‘You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for
paying the tax.’ They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, ‘Whose
portrait (image) is this? And whose inscription?’ ‘Caesar’s,’ they replied.
Then he said to them, ‘Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is
God’s.’ When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went
away" (Matt. 22:15-22). Now, compare this passage: Gen. 1:27 "So God
created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and
female he created them." Question: When we look at ourselves, whose image
(portrait) do we see? God's image is "stamped" upon each of us
because we were created in the image of God. Thus, render unto God what is
God's. In your life, what is God’s? If you were going to give to God what is
His, how much would you give Him? All of you… If you tithe, why do you do it?
Are you doing it because the preacher says that it is God’s law? In brief, are
you doing it for the right or for the wrong reasons? When we give money to God
or to the work of God, we have to determine why we are doing it… When people
give for all the wrong reasons, like wanting to be thought
"spiritual" by the church leadership, then their "financial
stewardship" is of no personal value at all… The sad thing is, I have met
others with this same "reason" for their giving… People who say that
they are good stewards of God’s money because they faithfully tithe, I want to
ask them, "Why do you tithe?" If they are tithing for the wrong
reasons, then they are not practicing Christian stewardship. They may be giving
money, but it is as empty as the person who "fasts" with his eye on
the clock and his hand on the refrigerator door. Both of these two people, the
so-called "faster," and the so-called "tither"
are deceived and fooling themselves. Jesus said that when you do your good
deeds to be seen of men so that they will think that you are
"spiritual," then you have your reward in full. God will not reward
you. Your reward is the praise of men (Matthew 6:2-6)… Tithing is not God’s law
upon the New Testament Christian.
[Source: http://www.columbiaseminary.edu/coffeetalk/054.html]
- ABS-CBN News Article; July 6,
2001 – Cardinal Sin Opposes Tithing:
Manila
Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin opposed Friday the proposal to implement the
biblical system of obligatory tithing among members of the Catholic Church. In
a statement, Sin said he is not in favor of tithing and opposed any discussion
or debate on the issue as it "desecrates the Church of the poor."
"Talking about [tithing] is irrelevant when we consider how the poor are
suffering," Sin said. " What shall we do for the least, the last and
the lost among us? What they need is not more money to receive. What the poor
need is more meaning in life." He added that the Church does not need more
money but more determination to "live like Christ." "The Church
was strongest not when the Church was richest, most powerful and most
influential. The Church was richest when Francis of Assisi, Teresa of the Child
Jesus and Mother Teresa taught us the power of being poor children of
God," he pointed out…
[Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin’s Official Statement is
available online at: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/ABS/INEWS-JUL2001.NSF/Specials/20010707053]
- Brian Anderson (elder) - Milpitas Bible Fellowship
(excerpt from sermon titled "Old Testament Tithing vs. New Testament
Giving):
The
Scriptures do not teach that the tithe is incumbent upon New Testament
believers. However, they do teach that Christians are to be generous,
sacrificial, expectant and cheerful givers!
Brian
Anderson - Are Christians Supposed To Tithe [sermon excerpt]:
There
is not one word in all the New Testament to command or even suggest that New
Covenant believers are supposed to tithe. While the New Testament is silent on
the duty of Christians to tithe, it is not silent on the subject of giving, but
rather quite vocal. The New Testament never gives a certain percentage point as
an obligatory and required standard for our giving. Instead, the Scriptures
declare, "Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not
grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Cor. 9:7). The Old Testament tithe was required by law. The
Jews were under compulsion to give it. The New Testament teaching on giving
focuses on its voluntary character. "For I testify that according to their
ability, and beyond their ability they gave of their own accord" (2 Cor. 8:3).
- Prophet Bob Neumann – The
Tradition of Tithing (excerpt – emphasis by Neumann):
THE
REALITY is the ''TITHE" is what keeps the local ministries in the game of
raising money. How many churches spend 90% of the ''tithes and offerings'' for
missions? How many churches use 40-50% of their cash flow to feed the widows and
orphans? How many pastors work a 40-hour a week in the world and tend a flock
in AMERICA today? How many called to the mission fields have to beg and plead
for support year in and year out? How many food pantries, soup kitchens, rescue
houses and shelters for the hurting are scrimping daily trying to reach out to
as many as possible as THE AMERICAN MEGACHURCH pays millions of dollars a week
for air-conditioning, sound systems, teleprompters, and air time? And some dare
to ask WHY THE MOST HOLY SPIRIT GRIEVES, WHY ABBA IS OFFENDED, AND WHY THE LAMB
PREPARES TO DESTROY THE AFFLUENT AND USELESS APOSTATE CHURCH…
- Robert A. Baker – A Summary of
Christian History (p.90-218):
The
leaders [before A.D. 100] usually worked with their hands for their material
needs. There was no artificial distinction between clergy and laity… The
earliest bishops or presbyters engaged in secular labor to make their living
and performed the duties of their church office when not at work.
- King James Dictionary (s.v. "tithe") emphasis added:
And all
the TITHE of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the
fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S: it is holy unto the LORD. (Leviticus
27:30)
- The Condensed Biblical
Cyclopedia (s.v. "Property Given to
Religion") emphasis added:
The firstborn
of man and beast was by Divine requirement given to the Lord (Exodus 13:2). In
addition to this the Hebrews were required to give,
a. one-tenth of the products of their land (Leviticus 27:30);
b. one-tenth of the increase of flocks and herds (Leviticus 37:32-34);
c. a special tithe every third year (Deuteronomy 14:28,29);
d. to the poor at all times (Deuteronomy 15:7-11);
e. according to their ability when they attended their annual feasts
(Deuteronomy 16:16,17);
f. the first fruits of the land (Exodus 22:29; Deuteronomy 26:1-11).
[Note the lack of mention of tithing or firstfruits as money source or having any application to
the New Testament Church.]
- Pastor Kluane
Spake Ph.D. (Sword Ministries; Atlanta, GA) –
Reconsidering Tithing (excerpts – emphasis are by Pastor Kluane
Spake):
Can we
question principles that have been firmly established in the church? Rather
than daring to go against the establishment, most Christians back away in
retreat, thinking it's just not right to even think about not agreeing with
what has always been taught. This of course, is exactly what religion wants
them to do. Just keep quiet. Conform. In other words, don't rock the boat. Ah,
but here's where we must ask again: Is it okay to question? Yes, with the right
ATTITUDE, we can challenge the practices of the church -- even though these
standards have resisted change for centuries… Jesus didn't object to
straightforward inquiries -- such as, "Should we pay taxes?" or
"What must I do to be saved?" Actually, believers are encouraged to
earnestly examine the Scriptures and dig deeply into God's magnificent truths.
Questions don't compromise or negate our acceptance of Biblical inerrancy.
Rather, our passionate need to find TRUTH reveals wondrous discoveries that God
alone can disclose. And so, I question the current practice of tithing and
giving, because it seems that the church has suspended herself -- as if in
resistance to impending hour of transition, hanging there immobilized before
she's fully enabled -- caught up in tradition and need-oriented conformity.
Please let me make it clear that I'm not trying to be contentious, divisive, or
disrespectful about this topic, nor to negate the sincere intentions of giving
that have already been accomplished over the centuries. I was a pastor for 14
years and our church depended totally upon tithes to survive. Although we never
coerced anyone to give, we taught the standard of tithing and I personally
lived by that principle all my Christian life. Sooooo,
I've been there too! But, I'm being transformed by the increased understanding
of present truth.
What is
being questioned here is not meant to be flippant disregard for sacrificial
giving. We're not questioning the integrity of God's Word. But, we are
examining man's motives and heresies. We're trying to expose today's
unscriptural methodologies frequently used to obtain funds - oops, another
sacred cow! …Disheartened believers tell me things like, "We have gone
into deepest debt giving to the church in Tithes and Offerings and we just
don't understand, we're totally discouraged. It seems that there must be more
to this gospel than money." Let's ask again, "Could our current
APPROACH to obtaining tithes and offerings be erroneous?" All too often we
hear leaders accuse their members of not obeying the Bible when they don't give
tithes and offerings. I'm sure you've heard these accusations and you've felt
the pressure about "Robbing God of His tithe." Perhaps you've even
been told that you'll "inherit a curse" for not tithing! Like, you'd
better not die owing back tithes or it's the grim reaper. "Well,"
they shout, "Is He the God of your pocketbook?" We need a revelation
of Christ's finished work! Otherwise, all we have is religion. Religion is the
counterfeit to revelation knowledge. Religion kills; it puts God in box.
Religion contains rules of behavior that stagnate the mind. It arrests
individuality and maturity. It keeps us divided and unable to find unity. It
always dies a hard death. And eventually, someone always screams, "heresy"
before it dies.
Church,
believe me, all of our favorite doctrines will be shaken and refined. As New
Testament believers, we should consider the following: 1 – That
redeemed/ransomed believers are not constrained by the rules and regulations of
the law; 2 – That Christians should not tithe out of the FEAR of being
"cursed" (Mal. 3). Redemption frees us from being cursed - forever.
Fear is never the correct incentive for giving; 3 – That believers should not
give because of being provoked, manipulated, controlled, or made to feel
guilty; 4 – T hat we do not give to "get" a blessing. The blessings
are already ours. The cross did it all. Giving images the character of God.
Next, we must clarify, "Do obsolete rules ever apply to our life or our
giving?" The answer is clear: Beloved, we are not under the law. Matthew
5:17-18 tells us the very words of Jesus, "Do not think that I have come
to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy, BUT TO
FULFILL" (Strongs "pleroo"
to make replete, i.e. (literally) to cram, level up (a hollow), or imbue,
diffuse, influence, satisfy, execute, finish, verify, etc.). (See also Rom.
8:4, 10:4, Gal. 3:17-24, 4:4-5, Col. 2:16-17.) Because the law was FULFILLED
after the cross, we find that the need for animal sacrifices was abolished,
circumcision was no longer obligatory, and the detailed rituals of the Feast
Days didn't have to be literally observed. Christ's sacrifice also did way with
food laws, the Levitical priesthood, and the actual
tabernacle/ temple was no longer the only place for worship! Jesus fulfilled
and completed the law. He became our High Priest, our Sabbath, our Feasts, and
our Sacrifice. He is The Tithe. Still, the principle of believers giving
sacrificial offering is eternal (1Pet. 1:18-20; Rom. 12:1). The circumcision of
our heart, ears, eyes, mouth, and our entire life still applies (Acts 7:51; Col
2:11). The sacrificial offering of the fruit of our lips is still acceptable.
The intentional giving of our lives and of our possessions is at the crux of servanthood… NEW TESTAMENT GIVING: 1 – Tithing is NOT
mentioned as part of the New Covenant lifestyle. Even though the Pharisees
observed the Law, Jesus said they were of their father, the Devil (Jn 8:44). Jesus commented that their tithing lacked the
"more weightier matters." They were particularly legalistic in their
ATTITUDE about tithing, as well as their other religious ideas (Matt 12:1-10;
Matt. 23:23, Lk. 13:10-17, Lk.
18:12); 2 – Jesus did not receive tithes. Jesus was supported by
"gifts" (Lk. 8:3, 9:1-6 10:3-16, Matt
10:1-10; Mk 6:7-11); 3 – Jesus did not teach the apostles, the disciples, or
His followers about tithing. Though He spoke a lot about money and giving,
Jesus did not mention the tithe as being obligatory for believers who followed
Him; 4 – Did the apostles teach tithing? No record; 5 – Did the apostles tithe?
No record; 6 – Did the early church tithe? No record; 7 – Did any New Testament
believer tithe or give money to "get" something from God? No; 8 –
Being empowered to give out of the love for God (and without minimum
expectation), our giving will usually result in a much greater amount than 10%;
9 – All our actions should be motivated by an ATTITUDE of spiritual faith.
Because we have been freed from the law of sin and death (Rom. 8:2), we are
released into the law of the spirit of LIFE! Voluntary liberal giving is listed
as a "spiritual gift" in Romans 12:8. Now, EVERYTHING WE ARE AND
EVERYTHING WE HAVE BELONGS TO GOD. He deserves more than we could possibly
give; 10 – The Lord desires a love relationship with us, not just a legal
obligation from us.
After
much fervent and extended research, I still have found no mention from the
historical writings of the church fathers, that the early Church endorsed any
form of tithing. Tithing was first adopted at the Synod of Macon in 585 AD,
where compulsory payment of tithes (to the Catholic Church) was demanded under
the warning of excommunication. However, the Catholic Church no longer demands
tithes. We need to also look at the way the early Christians lived in the early
church. After the death of Jesus, PROVISION CAME IN A DIFFERENT WAY. Their
giving exceeded that of a tithe. The eternal principles of sacrificial
offerings remained. The book of Acts shows that even though people DID NOT
TITHE, the ministers needs were met, the members needs were met, and abundant
resources were dispersed to the disadvantaged. Only some examples concerning
the "living" church are as follows: Please read Acts 2:42-46 and
observe how the Church grew and flourished. "...Selling their possessions
and goods, THEY GAVE TO ANYONE AS HE HAD NEED..." (NIV. See also 4:32-35).
Now, this practice of "having everything in common" deemed to be a
localized practice not mentioned in other places. But, the point is that the
Spirit of God moved mightily among them and they gave unselfishly, generously,
and without pressure. Acts 11:28-30 tells how "...Agabus,
stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread
over the entire Roman world... The disciples, each ACCORDING to HIS ABILITY,
DECIDED to provide help for the brothers living in Judea" (NIV see also
20:34-37, 24:17, Rom. 15:25-26). Hebrews 7:12 clarifies it all by saying,
"The priesthood being changed (the Levitical
priesthood determined by physical birth changed into the priesthood of Jesus
Christ and the priesthood of the believer), OF NECESSITY THERE IS A CHANGE OF
THE LAW (a change into a new understanding and application of the OT principles
- such as circumcision, sacrifices, tithing, etc). A NEW PRIESTHOOD has come,
not according to the Law of a fleshly commandment, but according to the power
of an endless LIFE" (eternal God-like LIFE). Heb
Galatians
5:22-23 makes it clear that the fruit of the Spirit cannot be regulated (even
by an amount or percentage), because against such there is no law. Notice the
context of following scripture - generally used to prompt monetary
contributions: Luke 6:37-38 "Do not JUDGE, and you will not be judged. Do
not CONDEMN, and you will not be condemned. FORGIVE, and you will be forgiven.
GIVE (give what? Judgment, condemnation, or forgiveness), and it will be given
to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be
poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it (it what? Judgment,
condemnation, forgiveness) will be measured to you." So, if we don't give
according to tradition (Matt. 15:3, Mk
[Entire message is available at: http://www.etpv.org/2001/ontith.html]
- Charles R. Swindoll
– The Grace Awakening (p.264):
How and
why we give is of far greater significance to God than what we give. Attitude
and motive are always more important than amount. Furthermore, once a person
cultivates a taste for grace in giving, the amount becomes virtually
immaterial. When those age-old grace killers, Guilt and Manipulation, are not
used as leverage, the heart responds in generosity. Giving at that point
becomes wonderfully addictive.
Charles
R. Swindoll – The Grace Awakening (p.267):
"But
just as you abound in everything, in faith and utterance and knowledge and in
all earnestness and in the love we inspired in you, see that you abound in this
gracious work also" (2 Corinthians 8:7). In many a church there is faith;
there is good teaching ("utterance"), a working knowledge of the
Christian life; there is zeal, spiritual passion, and a great deal of love… but
generosity? A superabundant willingness to give? Often, that is the one
ingredient conspicuous by its absence. How easy to take, to be blessed,
instructed, encouraged, exhorted, affirmed, and strengthened – all those things
received in abundance – yet fail to balance the receiving with our giving. Did
you notice how Paul refers to financial support? He calls it "this
gracious work"… and he exhorts us to abound in it. The Christian life
takes on a healthy balance when our taking in and giving out stay in step. You
and I feel closer to the Savior because that is what He did… He gave. "For
you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for
your sake He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich"
(2 Corinthians 8:9). Study those words for a moment. Here was someone who was
rich, immensely rich. At His disposal was the wealth of heaven, so mind-boggling
it is beyond description. Yet He left it all as He came to give Himself for us.
Why? That we, in turn, might pick up the riches of His life and follow His
model… I am impressed that the verse of Scripture doesn’t say, "for you
know the obligation of the Lord Jesus Christ," or, "You know the
sense of duty," though that is true. It was a duty that He came to earth.
But Paul doesn’t write: "You know the requirement" or "You know
the sacrifice." No, he mentions only the grace. When our Lord Jesus left
heaven, He didn’t leave gritting His teeth and clenching His fists, shouting
"Okay… OKAY!" It wasn’t obligation… it was grace that motivated Him
to come…
Charles
R. Swindoll – The Grace Awakening (p.271-274) emphasis added:
Here is
the first reason grace is so attractive: Grace individualizes the gift. When
you give by grace, you give individually. You give proportionately to your own
income. You have needs and you have an income to meet those needs. That
combination is unlike anyone else’s on earth. You are an individual. When you
give on that basis, your gift is an individual kind of gift. We are not all
shoved into a tank, blended together, then "required" to give exactly
10 percent… The second reason grace is so attractive: Grace makes the
action joyfully spontaneous. "…not grudgingly or under compulsion;
for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7)… Now for a third
reason grace is so attractive: Grace enables us to link up with God’s supply
line. Look at verse 8 [2 Corinthians 9]:
"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all
sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed."
When we possess an attitude of grace, we give. We give ourselves. We give from
what we earn. And He, in turn, gives back in various ways, not matching gift
for gift, but in an abundance of ways, He goes beyond. Forth: Grace leads to
incomparable results [2 Corinthians
- Dr. James Bollhagen
– Tithing: The 10% Rule and the Church (A Topical Summary for “Issues,
Etc.” – broadcast July, 2001):
All three tithes became obsolete. The tithe for
the Levites became unnecessary when the Levites were replaced by the apostolic
ministry. Concerning the material support of ministers of the Gospel, all the
New Testament says is that they should eat what is set before them (Matt. 10:10) and that the church
should take care of them (Gal 6:6).
Secondly, the tithe for the support of the temple services outlived its
usefulness: the sacrifices of the temple, soon to be leveled in AD. 70, gave
place to the one Sacrifice for all sin. Thirdly, the "social
ministry" tithe was no longer needed because Christian brothers and
sisters helped one another by way of special collections, as was the case with
the famine-stricken Christians in Jerusalem (1 Cor
16). While giving for the Lord's work obviously continued in the church, no
amounts or percentages are prescribed in the New Testament. All that is said is
that early Christians had everything in common (Acts
[Dr. James Bollhagen is Professor of Exegetical Theology (Old
Testament) at Concordia Theological Seminary]
- Colin Heath (of
bibleinsight.com) - Tithing In The New Testament:
We can conclude from reviewing the New Testament scriptures that although there is support for the sharing of material wealth with the ministry, there is no conclusive proof in the New Testament to support the inclusion of the Old Covenant tithing principle in Christian teaching.
- Steve Gregg
(author, writer, teacher, radio broadcaster) – Is Tithing For Christians
(article excerpts):
The total evidence that tithing was practiced before the
time of Moses consists of two passages in Genesis. In Genesis 14:20,
Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils of his recent conquest against Chedolaomer to the priest Melchisedek.
Also, in Genesis 28:20-22, Jacob, awaking from his famous dream, vowed to give
God a tenth of whatever prosperity God might give him in the time of his
absence from Canaan. Do these passages teach or even hint that godly
individuals regularly devoted ten percent of their wealth to God? Two
isolated cases cannot establish such a pattern, since we never read of Abel,
Enoch, Noah,
The ceremonial law served as a foreshadowing of the Christian revelation. The latter teaches that all of God’s people, having been “bought with a price,” are not their own, but are owned lock, stock and barrel by Jesus Christ (1 Cor.6:19-20). All of the believer’s time and all of his possessions belong to God; a fact foreshadowed in ceremonial law by the requirement of giving Him a representative token of each (one day of his week, and one tenth of his possessions).
In place of “tithing” the New Testament teaches
“stewardship” (Luke
The support of the Kingdom’s ministers is similarly an
expression of our duty to love God, to seek first the
We must also acknowledge that God would provide for the needs of His servants and their families. Therefore, a certain amount of our income must be devoted to the feeding, housing and clothing of our families (1 Tim.5:8). Nor is there any forbidding of a few things for enjoyment alone (1 Tim.6:17). How many such things? That is between the steward and his Master, and is not for another to judge (Rom.14:4). However, we must be on our guard against our own pervasive tendency to judge our own actions (and expenditures) more favorably than the facts would suggest. In eternity, our rejoicing will be proportionate to our self-denial in this life and our generosity to the poor and to the work of God.
In the century following the apostolic age, the Christians understood that tithing had been replaced by full surrender to God.
[The previous is excerpted from an article
posted
- The New International Dictionary of New Testament
Theology (CD ROM Version) – Re: Tithing:
For the early Fathers of
the Church, as for the writers of the NT, the tithe was a thing of the past; a
new principle for giving was guiding them now and propelling them to share--the
goodness of God and the inward compulsion of the Holy Spirit.
- G. Friesen and R. Maxson -
Decision Making and The Will of God (p.374):
As the Christian responds to the
grace of God by being a good steward of his money, he determines the distribution
of his money according to biblical priorities. In general, the order of his
giving moves outward, with those who are closest to him having the priority of
provision: the immediate family, the extended family, the work of the local
church, the work of gospel proclamation, and finally, the relief of needy
believers, then unbelievers
- F. F. Bruce - Answers To Questions (p.243):
Each Christian must come to a
conscientious decision on this subject before God, and not be content to submit
to the dogmatic statements of others; and it will be surprising if grace does
not impel him to give a larger proportion than ever the law demanded.
- Kennedy, James (Presbyterian TV preacher) - Tithing
Pamphlet (p.63); please observe the note
following Kennedy’s comments:
1. The tithe was only from profit (no profit means no
tithe).
2. The poor do not pay tithes.
3. The poor receive tithes.
4. Those who have no increase are
not required to tithe.
5. Welfare recipients and those living off savings should
not tithe.
6. Our FIRST economic duty is to pay family essentials.
7. Tithe-payers can give it directly to the poor if they
choose.
8. Tithe-payers should only give SOME of it to the local
church.
9. Situation ethics determine whether or not tithes should
be paid.
10. “God wants you to assign a high priority to taking care
of family needs.
11. Churches should allow tithes to be paid in the form of
work performed
12. Tithes are only on what is left after necessary expenses
and after taxes.
13. “In light of these biblical principles, I encourage
believers to tithe.”
[Note:
Kennedy takes a “middle” position that tithes should be paid on whatever
remains AFTER all essential bills have been paid. See full discussion of this
detail on Russell Kelly’s website. Here
is the key to understanding Kennedy’s position. He first wants his audience to
read the previous statements which, very honestly, do NOT place him in the
tithe-teaching camp at all! He says, “In light of these Biblical principles I
encourage believers in Christ to tithe.”]
- Klein, William W., Craig L. Blomberg,
and Robert L. Hubbard, Jr., - Introduction to Biblical Interpretation
(p.206) emphasis added:
Just as poor people could offer less costly sacrifices in
those days (Lev. 12; cf. Luke 2:24), so Christians should not require identical
levels of giving from all believers today. In fact the N.T. does not promote
a fixed percentage of giving. We may better capture the spirit of N.T.
giving through what R. Sider calls ‘graduated tithe,'
by which the more one makes, the higher percentage one ought to give to the
Lord's work, and especially to helping the poor (1 Cor.
16:2; 2 Cor. 8:12-15).
Other Major Church
Colleges, Ministries and Seminaries that Oppose Tithing:
Masters Seminary, John MacArthur
Moody Bible Institute
Sword Ministries,
Word International
Ministries -
World Ministries
International, (per Prophet Jonathan Hansen)
Worldwide
PLEASE
CLICK HERE
To Read Some Closing Comments
By David A. Yeubanks
RECOMMENDED READING:
God bless you! My name is David Yeubanks and I am the author of this website. I hope you
enjoyed browsing the comments on this page, which are taken directly from a number
of Bible commentaries, dictionaries, encyclopedias, pastors, evangelists,
teachers and ministries all across the globe.
After personally reading more than
25 books on the subjects of giving and tithing and researching more than 100
books total concerning related Bible topics (i.e. Jewish history and social
life, the writings of the early church fathers, various Scripture passages and
persons discussed in Bible commentaries and dictionaries, referencing more than
30 different translations of the Bible as well as studying Greek and Hebrew
lexicons and word study books, etc.), not to mention scores of Internet and
newsletter articles and personally contacting pastors of churches, rabbis,
theologians and Jewish organizations, I have discovered a few specific titles
on the subject of tithing, which I personally find to be extremely informative
and well presenting of Bible evidence.
I am not a professional theologian
and only hold an Associates degree in the field, but I consider myself a
sincere and diligent student of the Word of God that strives to fully embrace
the standard of 2 Timothy 2:15. I'm 35 years old and have been serving the Lord
for 31 years now and don't regret a day. God is amazing! I have a heart to
teach, to share God’s truth with others and to simply submit my life to be
conformed unto the image of my Savior, Jesus Christ, and allow His Spirit and
His Word to renew my mind day by day. I don't presume these things make me an
expert or authority on Bible history or Hebrew/Greek interpretation and
exegesis, but I am certainly not ignorant and boldly profess a deep love for
studying the Bible and seeking to apply its truth to my life. I encourage all
who read the comments presented here to have the same mind.
There are a good number of books
available on the topic of tithing (from several different perspectives), but
the following list reveals some of my personal favorites and are highly
recommended. If you want to get straight into the meat of the study about
giving and tithing and avoid just pages of opinion and critical remarks, not to
mention commentary that is weak on providing Scriptural resource, please get
one of the following titles for your study. Just click on the title or picture
of the book cover to purchase the desired item. A portion of the proceeds will
go to the Prayer Shack and help to keep this site online. God bless you and
thanks!
Should The Church Teach Tithing?
A Theologian's Conclusions About A Taboo Doctrine
Russell Earl Kelly, Ph.D.
Dr. Russell Kelly happens to be a good friend of mine and has written
this magnificent book on the subject of tithing (in fact, it was after I first
read his book that I made the effort to contact him and he has remained a dear
friend ever since). This is, by far (in my opinion), the best book available
on the subject. I sincerely offer no
exaggerations whatsoever. I honestly
cannot say enough good about this book!
It has been rated #1 on Amazon.com's
best-seller list for the subject for a few years in a row now and more than
1,000 copies of the electronic version have been downloaded from this website
as well! I highly recommend it! Every reference for study is given and
Scripture is thoroughly examined on each facet of this popular doctrine in the
Church today. Dr. Kelly has served as a pastor in several churches throughout
the years of his ministry and is an accomplished theologian with a host of
degrees in biblical theology and related areas of study and research. Though
this book is "thick" and loaded with a wealth of information, it is not
a boring "textbook" read. While many other authors write books on
merely the traditional aspects of the doctrine (post Reformation era), Russ
keeps dead on track with 100% contextual clarity and focus on the direct Word
of God. Literally no stone is left
unturned concerning this subject. You
will find it intriguing, thought provoking and informative... perhaps even
mind-blowing, challenging and convicting. Russell takes, head on, the common
arguments most pro-tithe teachers make in support of the doctrine and weigh
them carefully and thoroughly against Scripture. The book also thoroughly
covers the important truth and too often neglected teaching in the Word
concerning New Covenant principles of grace giving. Much attention is also
given to the writings of the early church fathers on the subject and the
historical development of the doctrine of tithing over the centuries since
Bible times. This book is a must-read for pastors, theologians and lay people
alike – if they wish to be 100% honest in their examination of Bible truth. It
should be (and, in my opinion IS) the text-book on the subject! Excellent!!!
AAA+ "10+" and FIVE BIG STARS - definitely! I promise you, there is no other book on
tithing that has ever been written that covers this subject in more detail than
Russell’s book. If you want to examine
the REAL truth about tithing.
Tithing:
Low Realm, Obsolete & Defunct
Matthew E. Narramore
I was recently introduced to this great book by Matt Narramore
several months back 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 from his
website. Check it out!
Beyond Tithes And Offerings
Michael L. Webb, Mitchell T. Webb
Beyond Tithes and Offerings 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. 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. 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.
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