: Martin Roberts
: The Privilege of Tithes and Offerings Is Tithing a Choice or a Command for Present Day Christians
: MDR Publishing
: 9780990543015
: 1
: CHF 2.40
:
: Christentum
: English
: 168
: DRM
: PC/MAC/eReader/Tablet
: ePUB
Much debate continues within the Christian faith as to whether a person is instructed to tithe to the Church in the Modern Era. Both sides of the divide are equally convinced as to their belief. The Privilege of Tithes and Offerings offers the reader the opportunity to explore what is really meant when we tithe or offer one's contributions to God. Do we do it begrudgingly or do we do it as a mark of our true heart condition in relation to all that God has given to us? The reader is left with that decision for themselves but the author challenges each and every one as to where their treasure is. God doesn't need our money. He doesn't sit on His throne with a ledger writing down what you have given him in your offerings. Perhaps many of us should be thankful that He does not. Ultimately, every Christian, whichever side of the divide they stand, should have a willing heart in offering to God their Time, Talent, Treasure and Touch. Tithes and offerings are truly a privilege from God, inviting us to step out in faith and put our trust in Him.

Introduction

When I began to consider writing this book I knew from the onset that at some juncture a person, and most likely a Christian, will be on one of two sides of the choices I present in the following pages. The purpose of this book is not to confuse or criticize a person's choice as to their tithes or offerings. But it is a book that is meant to challenge a person as to where his or her heart lies and where they place God in their lives. From the outset, let me say this book is not meant to be a book of condemnation regarding your personal tithes and offerings. I am not your judge and neither are you mine. Many of the points I mention in this book are my beliefs which many other Christians share, and equally, many do not. But there lies the conundrum of this whole discussion. Surely there can be only one side? Or do we have a selection of choices?

By definition, offering is not the focus of the argument. What we do offer can be questioned if we are offering less than what we genuinely are able to offer. We must be careful not to be covetous in our thoughts and actions.

The focus of the argument is whether we should tithe, that is, give 10% of our income. The argument then spirals down to even a further layer of argument. Whether we should tithe 10% of our net income or gross income.

I often liken the giving of tithes, or rather the personal beliefs of an individual giving of tithes, to that of the Rapture. If you are of the Christian faith you will be aware that many believe in a Pre-Tribulation which is the term described as Christ's followers being raptured to heaven prior to the tribulation mentioned in Revelation. Then there are those who believe in Mid-Tribulation, which relates to the rapture occurring midway into the Tribulation, or three and one half years after the Tribulation has started. Then finally there are the Post-Tribulation believers who believe Christ will come for His bride at the end of the Tribulation period. There are actually many more thoughts and theories as to this timed event. I say"timed" because it is going to happen. However, this book is not a discussion of the Tribulation period. But it clearly highlights the point that, as Christians, we all have differing beliefs, thoughts or opinions on scripture, or indeed, how we interpret the word of God.

The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 14:33a,“For God is not a God of confusion but of peace” (ESV).

We could go into a whole discussion of the many disagreements within our churches as to those who believe in giving the first or tenth of everything they earn. On the other side of the argument are those who believe that the New Testament ushered in the New Covenant of Jesus Christ and therefore the Mosaic Law Covenant that detailed the giving of tithes was no longer valid. In other words, we can give whatever we choose to give or, for that matter, nothing at all.

It is my hope and prayer that after discussing this very important subject you will accept the decision that God puts into your heart as to your giving of tithes or offerings. I pray that you will ask God for guidance and direction.

We are not talking about God expecting someone to give his very last dollar and not provide for his family. Scripture does not, and never has, supported that view. Rather, we want to discuss what God expects of us. It is a fact that among churches