Bible Question:
A Christian friend of mine told me that the bible does not clearly states we must give tithes to the church. He says it mentions it in the old testament but in the new testament something changed. I did not understand clearly what he meant. He mentioned though that even Paul himself -one of the apostles- did not take money from offerings, but he did work on making tents. He then made a comparison as to why church pastors nowadays depend on church members tithes and offerings for their life subsistence when the apostles themselves who were more actively involved in building and expanding the Christian church did not do so. Would you please guide me and show me the true and correct information regarding this issue? I appreciate your sincere help in this issue. Eyes4Zion |
Bible Answer: Hi Eyes4Zion! I'm not a Bible scholar but I would like to share with you what I know about tithing and giving offering nowadays. Tithing and giving offering is not really an issue of supporting a church or ministry or where the church pastors will get the money to support themselves and all those who work in the church. It is a heart issue... by giving tithes and offering, God is honored and He sees clearly ones love for Him goes beyond the material blessings that one has. As far as the church pastors and workers' substinence is concerned, they have their own faith to deal with that, which means the Lord will be the One to provide for their needs and it may come from the members of the church or it may not. Yes tithing was mentioned in the Old Testament more often but it was first mentioned in Genesis 14:20 where Abraham gave tenth after giving praises and honor unto the Lord.. Also you can look at Hebrews 7:1-10 and it stressed the same account with Abraham and Melchizedek (a High Priest). However, take note of verse 7 which mentioned the exchange of blessings when one gives tithes..Giving tithes actually gives the tither the greater "blessing" or the empowerment to get wealth and prosperity. I hope this would help clear things for you. |