Thesis: Tithes and offerings are controversial biblical subjects that are misused, abused and manipulated by many for various reasons. What is true and contextual about how the believer is to give to the church?
BIBLICAL TEXT * The New Testament Church met on the first day of the week - Sunday. * Monetary collections were made on these first day gatherings * Collections were being made for displaced Jews and Christians who were persecuted, lost property, lost livelihood, etc. * Verse 1 suggests it had become habit to collect money when the church gathered
SHOULD WE TITHE * Old Testament had three tithes: - Yearly for Levites - Yearly for festival - Third year for needy - Total was %23.33 - Theocractic government "taxing" * If in New Testament you believe tithe, then you should be consistent and adhere to %23.33 * Paul never brought a tithe/%10
SHOULD WE GIVE OFFERING * Yes. Was consistent practice on first day of week gathering * How much? verse 2 = "as one prospers". As one can save and treasure for the Lord. Similar as we treasure/put away for our retirement * Give generously, willingly, cheerfully and according to ability, as Jesus gave * God gave more than we ever can, we cannot pay Him back; so giving is heart based * We don't give to get
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