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What do you think about tithing?

 Submitted: 10/10/2008
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Question: I have been doing some searching on the Internet as well as in my Bible reading and am curious as to what you think about tithing? Is it in fact a command? And is it a part of the New Testament church practice or was it just under the law? I have read and seen it explained that those who preach tithing nowadays are actually incorrect according to the Bible and that because we are under grace we no longer need to practice tithing because it was under the law. Don't get me wrong, I totally believe in giving to the work of the Lord, but this is an issue that my husband and I have struggled with ever since we have been in church and I want to do what is right. I have read in the NT that 'every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give, not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver' (2 Corinthians 9:7). Now I have read that this means we give according to how the Spirit leads, not necessarily a tenth or tithe. Also, should everything we give be just to the church? If we give to the poor, whether it be money or possessions, isn't that the work of the Lord and showing God's love and mercy? Sorry for this to be so lengthy and I do appreciate your taking the time to answer my question.
Answer: We believe that tithing is God's plan for the support of each local assembly. We believe that the tithe is the first ten percent of a person's increase. We also believe that God's people should give as they purpose in their hearts. We would charcaterize this as offerings. Tithe is a set percentage, offerings are whatever we purpose in our hearts. We also believe that it is good for God's people to be of a generous spirit and to share their blessings with those less fortunate. For more on this subject, please see our article called 'The New Testament Tithe' found on Shelf 4 of the Apostolic Free Library.


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