Well said.... I too believe that the tithe was done away with....
Remember also that the 10% tithe in the old testament was also part of the government tax since the government and church was together into a theocracy.. Part was given to the temple and the priest and another part of the 10% was given to run the everyday functions of the government....
The New Testament tell us to give generously but that we are not mandated on a certain percentage.. Though 10% would be useful as a guideline but not across the board.. There are people who hurt greatly with money through no fault of their own. then they are made to feel guilty if they are not able to give 10%....
Side Note: Alot of times I feel that the Offering Plate itself is unwise.... It is kinda of a show off as the plate is passed down the aisles and people can see who and what is been giving..... In alot of churches it becomes a Prideful thing.... I believe the old fashion way worked best for the church over the last 1800 years. A Tithe/Alms Box in the back of the church that people can put money into as is laid a upon their hearts without people eyeing them out or it becoming a Prideful (look at the wade of money I threw in) event....
Michael
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jerusalem Blade  What I understand the Scriptures to teach, Ken, is that we are no longer under the OT law of the tithe. I believe we are to use it as a guidleline for giving, but not a mandate. We are called upon to give generously, and for those who are able, their offerings may well far exceed 10%.
There was a point in our lives here -- my wife and I -- where we were getting only about $220 a month, and were having a hard time. I said to the Lord, I have a lot more than my "treasure" to give, such as my "time" and "talents", and so embarked on serving others with these, rather than the full 10% $. I know some will disagree, but this is how I see it.
At this point, we do give 10%, but not as under a law. If we run out of food money, I would not hestitate to take a little from the offerings envelope we keep.
I am sometimes stunned when poor domestic workers in our church give much more than wealthier Westerners. Though I do not judge the latter, as they may be giving elsewhere that I do not know.
Steve |