Bible Question: I don't see any big deal or issue as to whether tithing is O.T. or N.T., under law or grace; I think it is a matter of attitude and the love for God, His church and the Spreading of the Gospel. The question I see that is rather more interesting to discuss about and which I think may help open the understanding of many on tithing issues is God's challenge - PROVE ME: the challenge to tithers |
Bible Answer: Tithing is not God's challenge. Tithing is a command given to Israel in the Law. It is not tithing but GIVING that is "a matter of attitude and the love for God..." Throughout Scripture giving to God is always voluntary. "Tithes were not primarily gifts to God, but taxes for funding the national budget in Israel." "New Testament believers are never commanded to tithe. " "All giving apart from that required to run the government was purely voluntary (cf. Exodus 25:2; 1 Chronicles 29:9). Each person gave whatever was in his heart to give; no percentage or amount was specified. "New Testament believers are never commanded to tithe. Matthew 22:15-22 and Romans 13:1-7 tell us about the only required giving in the church age, which is the paying of taxes to the government." "The guideline for our GIVING to God and His work is found in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: "Now this I say, he who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver." ____________________ (www.gty.org) (Emphasis added.) For much more in-depth information on Tithing, including many Scripture references, look up "Tithing" in Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology. Baker's Dictionary is available online at (bible.crosswalk.com) --Radioman2 |