COGIC ADULTS MENS SUNDAY SCHOOL BOOK September 14, 2025 Acts 4:34-5:10 KJV
West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
My COGIC WORSHIP: 1Corithians 15:3-4 KJV I Worship God My Father to recieve, when getting what I want and to lack nothing. I Worship God that is a church of generosity and to help the less fortunate. I Worhip God that brings Unity in My Prayers and Ministry Blessing Me with Exhortation Hebrews 10:25 KJV
A 2 Corinthians 9:7 KJV
Verse 5:1-11 My Interpetation: I Worship God the Only Word to Believe. We Believe the Bible to be inspired and only infallible written Word of God.
Hello again Lbooth1955. You could probably guess my response to your question, or even seen my response to others in the past about this question. No, I don't believe in Tithing as a requirement or even a command, for those who are in Christ. The oft quoted Scripture that seems to help us concerning our giving ( 2 Corinthians 9:7,8: "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work") is very applicable.
And I believe that this instruction is about a heart that has an attitude of generosity to others and complete faith in God, not just to the local Fellowship, but to those in need around them & supporting those in the ministry of the Gospel. We are to give according to our faith, our conscience, as God has blessed us. The widow's last two mites had greater value than all the 'tithes' & general offerings cast in by others. The LORD could multiply those valueless mites in an instant and that widow would have been the one to receive the greater blessing for her devotion to the LORD and sacrificial giving in faith, faith in the God Who was her "Yahweh-Yireh". That said, for the new believer uninstructed in these things and still desiring a dollar amount to give as his regular offering and exercise of faith, I would suggest that a tenth of one's earnings was a good place to begin, yet to always be open to the LORD and to the needs around him. When we have sensitive compassionate hearts, our yearning to reach out and help, must go beyond any monetary amount but the giving of ourselves to the LORD for His use in whatever way He enables and directs us. If we then disobey Him, the greater suffering will be ours. GBU.
Tithing in the Old Testament (OT) was the practice of giving a tenth (10%) of one's income, produce, or livestock to the Lord. It was part of the Mosaic Law given to Israel and served multiple purposes-primarily supporting the Levitical priesthood, helping the poor, and celebrating religious festivals. Here's a breakdown:
1. The Basic Command
"Tithe" means "tenth."
The first mention is Genesis 14:20, when Abraham gave Melchizedek a tenth of the spoils of war-this was before the Law.
Jacob also promised a tenth to God in Genesis 28:22, again before the Law.
2. Under the Mosaic Law (For Israel)
There were actually three tithes commanded for different purposes:
A. The Levitical Tithe (First Tithe)
Numbers 18:21-24: The Israelites gave 10% of their crops and livestock to support the Levites, who had no inheritance or land.
The Levites then gave a tenth of the tithe to the priests ( Numbers 18:26-28).
B. The Festival Tithe (Second Tithe)
Deuteronomy 14:22-27: Another 10% was set aside each year for the Israelites to bring to Jerusalem and eat during religious festivals (like Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles).
If the journey was long, they could convert the tithe to money and use it to buy food and drink in Jerusalem.
C. The Poor Tithe (Third Tithe)
Deuteronomy 14:28-29 & 26:12-13: Every third year, a tithe was stored locally to support the poor, orphans, widows, and foreigners.
So, the average Israelite gave about 23.3% annually, not just 10%.
3. Tithing Was for Israel Under the Law
Malachi 3:8-10 is often quoted on tithing but was a rebuke to Israel for neglecting the Law, not a command to the Church.
The Temple system and Levitical priesthood made tithing necessary.
4. Tithing in the New Testament
No command is given to the Body of Christ (Church) to tithe.
Instead, believers are told to give willingly, cheerfully, and generously ( 2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Tithing was not taught as a requirement for Gentile believers under grace.
I thank you Jesus for Chase and Christina. I pray Jesus that you will provide them with a place to live in Jesus Name Amen. Jesus you are a great provider and I pray that you will bless Chase and Christina with a home that is flourishing with your presence and blessings! 2 Corinthians 9:8 "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every great work." I am keeping you in my prayers. Let me know if there is anything else that I can pray with you. God bless.
Karen, sorry to hear about false claims. I pray that God will protect you and you're family in Christ Jesus. The day will come when we see Jesus Christ face to face.
When I read this verse, I know that there's not a percentage of money for me to give or someone telling me when I should give. I give because it's in my heart from the Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth acheerfulgiver.
If we give with a unhappy heart, then it's not giving with a happy heart.
May God bless you and you're family.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
God gave us with a cheerful heart and that was Jesus Christ.
Tithing is the most controversial thing in the church today. Nobody wants to go broke giving a tithe. The Old Testament can give us a guide line, but it was given to the Jews to follow.
Deuteronomy 14:23
And thou shalt eat before the Lord thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the Lord thy God always.
The Jews were to follow the law to tithe.
Hebrews 7:5
And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham
Churches will use this verse to make people feel guilty of Tithing.
Malachi 3:8-10
Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Apostle Paul teaches us that the Old Testament and the four gospels are for learning because Jesus Christ had completed His mission and nailed the Law on the cross and all our sins .
Romans 15:4
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for ourlearning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
The New Testament teaches us how to give a offering by the heart, without madness and anger in the Lord Jesus Christ. Apostle Paul teaches us how to give without the law.
2 Corinthians 9:7
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 9:6 - But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
But this I say, He which sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which sows bountifully, and that's the word blessing. He who sows a blessing shall also reap a blessing.
2 Corinthians 9:7 - Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
Every man according as he purposes in his own heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, (that's the word grief), or of necessity: and that's the word pressure, for God loves a cheerful giver. The term "cheerful giver" in the Greek is the word that means hilarious. God loves a hilarious giver. And no, I've never seen one!
2 Corinthians 9:10 - Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
Now he that ministers seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and these are all Optative Moods in the Greek text. These are wishes, may he! May he minister bread for your food, may he multiply your seed sown, and may he increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
Do you see the emphasis? The God who provides the seed, may He increase your food, may He increase the seeds that you plant, in the sowing and the scattering of the seed, and may He increase your fruits in righteousness.
2 Corinthians 7:10 - For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be repented of: That is not to be regretted. But the sorrow of the world works death.
Again, this is the word METANOEO which is associated with salvation. We use it incorrectly by saying that Christians need to repent. If you're a Christian, you've already repented. There is a confession. There is a forsaking. But repentance is associated with salvation. When you make the decision to change the direction of your life, and surrender your life to Christ, that's repentance. Repentance, METANOEO, always leads to salvation.
2 Corinthians 8:2 - How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.
Again, the word affliction is THLIPSIS for stress. This is city wide. This is things that they faced in receiving Christ.
2 Corinthians 8:4 - Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
The word "gift" in the verse is the word grace.
2 Corinthians 8:16 - But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.
It is interesting that the word "thanks" in this verse is the word grace (CHARIS).
2 Corinthians 9:5 - Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.
The word "bounty" is the word EULOGIA which means blessing. Do it now under grace as a blessing. Don't wait until the last minute and find people that say I said I would give but I don't have it now, because you're going to desire to go out and get from other people, and he says it shouldn't be that way.
Unmerited divine assistance given man for his regeneration or sanctification
The power and equipping for ministry- ( 2 Corinthians 9:8)
Grace is the power and action of God to make us new creations in Christ. It is God's grace that works in us to change our desire and capacity for faith and obedience. Grace enables us to endure under difficult circumstances, to be bold in the face of persecution, and to properly utilize our natural gifts and abilities and also receiving new ones the Spirit bestows on us to apply to the work God calls us to do.
It is at work in us to be more and more conformed to Jesus' example of godliness, love, obedience, and mercy. Grace is from God and it is vitally necessary for anyone to walk in the way God ordains for us to live.
Grace makes our hearts glad and joyful. Grace tells us that He freely and openly accepts us in Jesus Christ. He delights in us. He is happy to be in fellowship with us. His love for us is not obligatory. He desires us and it pleases Him to have given us grace to be reconciled to him.
When God looks at those who are in Jesus Christ, He sees beauty. It brings Him joy. He is pleased within Himself to look upon us. He sees you with eyes of grace, not in sternness or ambivalence. He is fully committed to be gracious to us, to bless us, to have His favor rest on us.
And in all this, we cannot merit His grace in any way or add to it, or repay God for it, or enhance it by our devotion to God. It is a gift without expectation by God of receiving anything from us in return. It is given to us according to His good pleasure.
We praise Him for His glorious grace. We thank Him for His graciousness towards us. We shout for joy that He graced our lives. But none of these actions caused God to give us His grace. These are our reactions to having received grace from God.
Heavenly Father, I ask You to please answer Marinlilly's needs. Father God, please bless them with enough money to pay all bills and have plenty for all the funds a family needs.
2 Corinthians 9:8 In the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ. Amen
I give a Tenth. It is what God laid on My Heart from the beginning. But Look at Scripture and Elisha who poured out into the vessels continuously of oil. Her Husband a Man of God died Penniless, broke. Peter said , Silver and Gold have I None but Such as I have I give unto Thee Rise and Walk in the Name of Jesus of Nazerath. Jesus was a proponent for the poor. So much that He began His Ministry by saying, He has Anointed Me to Preach the Gospel to the Poor.
A visitor to a large Church wandered into a back room accidentally. In this room were Money Counters and a Enormous amount of money laid across the tables. He was embarrassed and apologized and the Counters were shocked that someone would walk in. One of the Counters trying to get rid of the awkwardness said , Well The Church can't say Silver and Gold have I None anymore. As He closed the door, God spoke to Him and He stuck His head back around and said, No and neither can They say Rise and Walk in The Name of Jesus. The Tenth is upheld by a Religious Organization that mirrors that of Christ's day. Burdens too Grievous to be bourne for so Many. I am a Minister,a Pastor. I understand the Financial needs of the Church. But this Doctrine of not paying a Tenth is Jeopardizing Your Soul or if you only pay a fifth, etc,just keep it. You are going to be Cursed and Die and go to Hell is Blasphemous. It's Rejecting the Works and Salvation of God. Paul said to Give as You have Prospered . Jesus said whatever You have freely received then freely give. Now,,, if You are willing to Walk by Faith and not by SIGHT and trust God. You will begin to give beyond Your means. Not because of a Denomination or Man or Pressure. But God is going to deal with You and test You and see if You are Trustworthy. The reason a lot of People don't have much or struggle financially continually even in the Church is because They are not Givers. I gave 20 dollars in 1996 when I had literally 23 dollars. God put the 20 in My hand that Night .
I Am A Real Baptist Brider 1979 - In Reply - 3 years ago
XXI. OF THE GRACE OF TITHING AND GIVING
I believe God's plan of finance for His Baptist Church's is to be tithes and offerings. Scriptural giving is one of the fundamentals of the faith. I believe that every Believer, as a steward of that portion of God's wealth entrusted to him or her, is obligated to support his or her Baptist Church financially. I believe that God has established the tithe as a basis of giving but that every Believer should also give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of his or her Baptist Church for the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel. I believe that Church members are commanded to bring their tithes and offerings into the Storehouse (Common Treasury) of their Baptist Church upon the first day of the week (Sunday). I believe that a Believer relinquishes all rights to direct the use of the tithe or offering once the gift has been made. I believe under grace we give, and do not pay, the tithe - "Abraham GAVE a tenth part of all." "Abraham GAVE the tenth part of the spoils," and this was four hundred years before the Law, and is confirmed in the New Testament, the Lord Jesus Himself said concerning the tithe, "... these ought ye to have done ..." ( Genesis 14:20; Leviticus 27:30; Proverbs 3:9, 10; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42; Acts 4:34, 35, 37; 1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8:7; 2 Corinthians 9:6, 7; Galatians 6:6; Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 5:17, 18; Hebrews 7:2, 4; 1 John 3:17).
Strategic of Success. God bless me to help others.
Purpose pursuit must be sovereign resolve. My success must be anchored in what God says on every area of my life. I must show God's works in my life.
1. Success prospective Anchored in God
2. S aligned with God spiritual priority that is aligned in God's word matt 6:33
Doing it God's way, seek God in every area
3. I must stay praying. He said He will grant my desires
Staying prayerful always Jeremy 33:3
I must have a lifestyle of praying. Breakthrough is inevitable
4. Must have a strategic plan analysis prov 24:3 Things don't just happen it must be planned ex. The process of buying my house. I must write the vision make it plain. Time to write plan for everything.
I will have a surge and surplus for my life and Newlight
CCC.
5. Sovereign planting in Agreement with scripture
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 God will use others favor to help me! Sowing will activate a covenant promise from God that He will Bless Me. Malachi 3:8 I want to live in a open house of God's Blessings
6. Sanctioned Partnerships matt 18:19
I want Faith Filled Agreement Agents. 2or3 in Agreement
7. Scriptural proclamation prov 18:20-21
I must speak life into my situations, family,home job,over My Pastor over my church, etc. I must monitor what comes out of my mouth.
8. Shun persecution from All Opposition 2 Timothy 3:11-12 Haters the devi. Remember on the other side is the blessings. No platform for such. No attention of such. God will pull me in front of those and show Himself in my life and situation. My DNA is built to outlast persecution
9 Steadfast perseverance over setbacks heb 10:35-36
Never give up
10. Supernatural Praise for accelerated manifestation. Heaven takes notice just as Paul and Saulus the chains fell off in the midsts of it!!!
2 Corinthians 9:7..."Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
Tithes was an OT law to ONLY the Levitical priesthood. Jesus, as you know, was the fulfilling of the law. End changed a few things in the NT. When he was here, the tithing was in effect. But after him, it wasn't.
I'm sure there are those who will disagree and that's fine. But if you are "required" to give, how "cheerful" is that? How could that NOT be of "necessity"? How can one "purpose" in his heart, if he/she is "compelled" to give 10%? Jesus brought mercy and grace. The Law was force.
I do believe in giving. I think God works in each person's heart as to how, when, which cause, how much, etc. I would say it's a personal thing between a person and God. He doesn't "need" our money. It's the point of helping and doing it cheerfully to bless. We are a vessel that should flow. We get, we give, we receive, repeat.
Well said. Jesus has become a curse for us all on the cross ( Galatians 3:13), so now every believer that is covered with His Blood is protected. In fact there are no curses at all (from God) in the world even for unbelievers since we live in the age of Grace, not Law.
Now about tenths, Paul in 1 Cor 16:2 says "Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come". So there isn't a fixed amount of money that we should give to the church, ie tenths, but a much as we wish to give, if we have anything to give.
Give freely as you purpose in your heart, you are forced if you give knowing that you will not receive a curse then you're not a cheerful giver because you're giving under pressure.
Concerning giving i know God cares more about worshiping him with all our hearts with all our mind and soul in his house more than Tith.
Infact God said to the People of Israel he did not speak to them about burnt offering by They ware to obey his words which they failed and got carried away by Burnt offering
Jeremiah 7:22
For in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, I did not speak to your fathers or command them q concerning burnt offerings and sacrifices. 23 But this command I gave them: r 'Obey my voice, and sI will be your God, and you shall be my people. t And walk in all the way that I command you, u that it may be well with you.'
I pray this gives you understanding.
So Please Pray and ask God to help you understand.
We as a church still should give of our tithes unto the Lord. However, I still believe that to not give the tenth does not place a person under an Old Testament curse as many would tend to believe. If a curse remained upon us because of our giving, this would nullify the the work of the cross and the atonement that Jesus afforded us. I tend to believe it puts us rather, under the Law of the sowing and reaping benefits of 2 Cor chapter 9: He that sows sparingly shall reap sparingly and He that does bountifully shall reap bountifully. But our salvation is not In jeopardy from a curse if we don't . What is your take on it?
TITHES & OFFERINGS ARE INTENDED TO HELP SPREAD THE GOSPEL OF GOD
Malachi 3:11 Context 8Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. 9Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. 10Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. 11And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. 12And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts.
CHEERFUL GIVER
2 Corinthians 9:6 - 7 6But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
BIBLICAL DEFINITION OF TERMS
TITHES = NOTE: God created and owned all things. You and I are servants or stewards of God. So God doesn't need our money, BUT wants what tithes represent: our hearts, trust and faith in Him. As our Father, He is teaching us to always put God first in our lives.
OFFERINGS = represent the best fruit of our labor offered to God as a return of thanks for God's favors, love, and blessings.
Hello Vicki. Ps. Dollar would have quoted from Malachi 3:8-10. He would probably also have said that this passage pertained to Israel who neglected to perform all that was required of them. In one passage ( Deuteronomy 12:6,11), the LORD instructed Israel that when they got to the Promised Land, that all their sacrifices, offerings, tithes, & vows were to come over as well & nothing to be left behind or undone. But in Malachi, the tithes that were made (the tenth of their farm produce gain) were not being brought forward & kept back by them. These tithes were needed & used by the priests & Levites serving at the Tabernacle for their support.
This command of tithing wasn't given nor applied to the Church, as the Church (at least in New Testament times), didn't have paid clergy or even a rented building & utilities supplied. Their giving was for the needs of one another & maybe their community ( Acts 2:41-47), thereby fulfilling the Command of Christ to love the LORD thy God and to love your neighbour as yourself. But as the Church grew & spread, the Apostle Paul made the believers aware that some of their Jerusalem brethren weren't doing so well in material things. So Paul sometimes collected stuff to take to them ( 1 Corinthians 16:1-3). So apart from these instances of providing relief to those in need, we don't read that tithing was practised. Rather, that Christians should not give grudgingly but willingly & cheerfully ( 2 Corinthians 9:6-8).
So, as much as tithing is not prescribed for the Church today, I believe that it should be a proper & sacrificial response to help in the support of a Church ministry, that now has far more expenses than the early Church. And not limited to a tenth on one's earnings, but also to share more if possible for other programs & missionary endeavours of the Church. But we're not limited to giving ten percent nor are we compelled to do so.
God is true to His words. I stop thinking. Surely understand to walk in Spirit.
My heart already literally stopped last year due to COVID and yet God brought me back. I know I still have things to do for His Glory.
Deuteronomy 33:25
Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.
26
There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun, who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in his excellency on the sky.
27
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them.
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." Revelation 12:11 KJV
My opinion on the topic of tithes does not fall in line with that most Christian pastors say.
First I'd have to define tithe- what exactly is being tithed? I believe in the verses in the old testament that talk about tithing included food, cattle, grain. The paper of money in itself is worthless, it only represents a credit towards trading things. I personally believe that one's time and labor have just as much value. Sometimes its more meaningful to personally help someone directly rather than hire someone to do the same thing. Like raking leaves in your grandmother's yard, or helping someone in need find a job.
Next, the 10 percent figure is only in the old testament. The new testament says this for example: 2 Corinthians 9:7. When most speak of tithing they speak of an obligation to fulfill, but here it says don't do that. It specifically says not to do grudgingly or out of necessity, but as he purposeth in his heart. Maybe God doesn't even want us to keep track, but to just give generously as the opportunities present themselves, without guilt or shame for meeting an potentially unnecessary percent figure that isn't discussed in the new testament. To me this means helping people maybe like Jesus did. I don't think you have to have money to help people. It's my opinion that this interpretation is a little closer to the intent behind 2 Cor 9:7.
Finally, I strongly dislike mega churches who pay pastors six figure salaries, have state of the art sound and lighting systems, and they meet once a week for an hour then the building sits vacant 95% of the week. Think of elderly on social security tithing to help a rich pastor get richer and for them to buy more HD projectors, and heat/AC bills for a mostly empty building. That seems wrong to me. It would seem to help people more to give to a charity that is more efficient as found through charity ratings site, or to even better to help a neighbor directly. God bless.
Tithes and Offerings Unto God__through the local Church - In Reply - 4 years ago
2 Corinthians 9:7 - Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a CHEERFUL giver.
Malachi 3:8-12 - Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
Malachi 3:10 - Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Matthew 6:1-4 - Take heed that ye do not your giving before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 23:23 - Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Luke 6:38 - Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye give withal it shall be measured to you again.
Luke 11:42 - But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Luke 18:12 - I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. [don't brag]
Acts 2:44-47 - And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
Acts 20:35 - I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
1 Corinthians 16:2 - Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 2 Corinthians 8:1-24
Yes, Dear Junnybug, your pastor is right about that "where we still give as we feel led to and where we feel led to", although in my opinion this has nothing to do with the Law that was fulfilled by Jesus, simply such a thing is not mentioned in the NT.
On the contary, Paul in his epistle to 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 is very clear about it. "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come".
See also 2 Corinthians 9:7 "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver" If there would still be tenths he wouldn't ask this but he would demand that corinthians kept the commadement.
No one can demand such thing.
Paul in his last meeting with the elders of Ephesus Acts 20:17-36 (see v 33-35) asks them to serve the members of the church there free, like he was always doing. Why? Because he didn't want them to put such a heavy weight on christians there. So how about asking now for 10%? No, certainly not. GBU
There is no place in the NT that commands a believer to tithe. The OT tithe requirement meant that you were to give 10 percent of everything you owned, not just money. How many do that today? Now, if a believer chooses to give 10 percent of their income to the church, that's okay, but it's not required.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 gives us the principles of giving. "But this I say, He which sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which sows bountifully, (and that's the word blessing). He who sows a blessing shall also reap a blessing. Every man according as he purposes in his own heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, (that's the word grief), or of necessity: (and that's the word pressure), for God loves a cheerful giver.
The term cheerful giver in the Greek is the word hilarious. God loves a hilarious giver. And no, I've never seen one!
This is also covered in Proverbs. Basically, God's principle is this: He blesses us with more than our necessity, because we are a steward of our possessions that belong to Christ. There are needs in the body of Christ and a lot of them God creates on purpose just so we participate in helping those in need.
There's a principle in the OT that's carried over that if God blesses us with an abundance of more than what we need, and we decide to spend it on ourselves, He has a way of making that money go to waste if we're not going to use it under His direction.
I'm not saying that everything we spend on ourselves is selfish. I'm just stating principle. We are dictating to God what He gives to us. If I'm going to sow sparingly, I'm going to reap sparingly. But if we sow a blessing, we reap a blessing!
It's a heart condition, not an amount. It's the attitude of what we do with what God gives us. It's up to each individual to purpose in their own heart whether they want to be the steward of their possessions in service to Christ. We're not to give out of grief, nor out of stress, for God loves a cheerful giver!
West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
My COGIC WORSHIP: 1Corithians 15:3-4 KJV I Worship God My Father to recieve, when getting what I want and to lack nothing. I Worship God that is a church of generosity and to help the less fortunate. I Worhip God that brings Unity in My Prayers and Ministry Blessing Me with Exhortation Hebrews 10:25 KJV
A 2 Corinthians 9:7 KJV
Verse 5:1-11 My Interpetation: I Worship God the Only Word to Believe. We Believe the Bible to be inspired and only infallible written Word of God.
And I believe that this instruction is about a heart that has an attitude of generosity to others and complete faith in God, not just to the local Fellowship, but to those in need around them & supporting those in the ministry of the Gospel. We are to give according to our faith, our conscience, as God has blessed us. The widow's last two mites had greater value than all the 'tithes' & general offerings cast in by others. The LORD could multiply those valueless mites in an instant and that widow would have been the one to receive the greater blessing for her devotion to the LORD and sacrificial giving in faith, faith in the God Who was her "Yahweh-Yireh". That said, for the new believer uninstructed in these things and still desiring a dollar amount to give as his regular offering and exercise of faith, I would suggest that a tenth of one's earnings was a good place to begin, yet to always be open to the LORD and to the needs around him. When we have sensitive compassionate hearts, our yearning to reach out and help, must go beyond any monetary amount but the giving of ourselves to the LORD for His use in whatever way He enables and directs us. If we then disobey Him, the greater suffering will be ours. GBU.
1. The Basic Command
"Tithe" means "tenth."
The first mention is Genesis 14:20, when Abraham gave Melchizedek a tenth of the spoils of war-this was before the Law.
Jacob also promised a tenth to God in Genesis 28:22, again before the Law.
2. Under the Mosaic Law (For Israel)
There were actually three tithes commanded for different purposes:
A. The Levitical Tithe (First Tithe)
Numbers 18:21-24: The Israelites gave 10% of their crops and livestock to support the Levites, who had no inheritance or land.
The Levites then gave a tenth of the tithe to the priests ( Numbers 18:26-28).
B. The Festival Tithe (Second Tithe)
Deuteronomy 14:22-27: Another 10% was set aside each year for the Israelites to bring to Jerusalem and eat during religious festivals (like Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles).
If the journey was long, they could convert the tithe to money and use it to buy food and drink in Jerusalem.
C. The Poor Tithe (Third Tithe)
Deuteronomy 14:28-29 & 26:12-13: Every third year, a tithe was stored locally to support the poor, orphans, widows, and foreigners.
So, the average Israelite gave about 23.3% annually, not just 10%.
3. Tithing Was for Israel Under the Law
Malachi 3:8-10 is often quoted on tithing but was a rebuke to Israel for neglecting the Law, not a command to the Church.
The Temple system and Levitical priesthood made tithing necessary.
4. Tithing in the New Testament
No command is given to the Body of Christ (Church) to tithe.
Instead, believers are told to give willingly, cheerfully, and generously ( 2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Tithing was not taught as a requirement for Gentile believers under grace.
"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:"
Blessings
When I read this verse, I know that there's not a percentage of money for me to give or someone telling me when I should give. I give because it's in my heart from the Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth acheerfulgiver.
If we give with a unhappy heart, then it's not giving with a happy heart.
May God bless you and you're family.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
God gave us with a cheerful heart and that was Jesus Christ.
Deuteronomy 14:23
And thou shalt eat before the Lord thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the Lord thy God always.
The Jews were to follow the law to tithe.
Hebrews 7:5
And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham
Churches will use this verse to make people feel guilty of Tithing.
Malachi 3:8-10
Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Apostle Paul teaches us that the Old Testament and the four gospels are for learning because Jesus Christ had completed His mission and nailed the Law on the cross and all our sins .
Romans 15:4
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for ourlearning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
The New Testament teaches us how to give a offering by the heart, without madness and anger in the Lord Jesus Christ. Apostle Paul teaches us how to give without the law.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthi
2 Corinthians 9:6 - But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
But this I say, He which sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which sows bountifully, and that's the word blessing. He who sows a blessing shall also reap a blessing.
2 Corinthians 9:7 - Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
Every man according as he purposes in his own heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, (that's the word grief), or of necessity: and that's the word pressure, for God loves a cheerful giver. The term "cheerful giver" in the Greek is the word that means hilarious. God loves a hilarious giver. And no, I've never seen one!
2 Corinthians 9:10 - Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
Now he that ministers seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and these are all Optative Moods in the Greek text. These are wishes, may he! May he minister bread for your food, may he multiply your seed sown, and may he increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
Do you see the emphasis? The God who provides the seed, may He increase your food, may He increase the seeds that you plant, in the sowing and the scattering of the seed, and may He increase your fruits in righteousness.
2 Corinthians 7:10 - For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be repented of: That is not to be regretted. But the sorrow of the world works death.
Again, this is the word METANOEO which is associated with salvation. We use it incorrectly by saying that Christians need to repent. If you're a Christian, you've already repented. There is a confession. There is a forsaking. But repentance is associated with salvation. When you make the decision to change the direction of your life, and surrender your life to Christ, that's repentance. Repentance, METANOEO, always leads to salvation.
2 Corinthians 8:2 - How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.
Again, the word affliction is THLIPSIS for stress. This is city wide. This is things that they faced in receiving Christ.
2 Corinthians 8:4 - Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
The word "gift" in the verse is the word grace.
2 Corinthians 8:16 - But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.
It is interesting that the word "thanks" in this verse is the word grace (CHARIS).
2 Corinthians 9:5 - Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.
The word "bounty" is the word EULOGIA which means blessing. Do it now under grace as a blessing. Don't wait until the last minute and find people that say I said I would give but I don't have it now, because you're going to desire to go out and get from other people, and he says it shouldn't be that way.
Pt. 4
Unmerited divine assistance given man for his regeneration or sanctification
The power and equipping for ministry- ( 2 Corinthians 9:8)
Grace is the power and action of God to make us new creations in Christ. It is God's grace that works in us to change our desire and capacity for faith and obedience. Grace enables us to endure under difficult circumstances, to be bold in the face of persecution, and to properly utilize our natural gifts and abilities and also receiving new ones the Spirit bestows on us to apply to the work God calls us to do.
It is at work in us to be more and more conformed to Jesus' example of godliness, love, obedience, and mercy. Grace is from God and it is vitally necessary for anyone to walk in the way God ordains for us to live.
Grace makes our hearts glad and joyful. Grace tells us that He freely and openly accepts us in Jesus Christ. He delights in us. He is happy to be in fellowship with us. His love for us is not obligatory. He desires us and it pleases Him to have given us grace to be reconciled to him.
When God looks at those who are in Jesus Christ, He sees beauty. It brings Him joy. He is pleased within Himself to look upon us. He sees you with eyes of grace, not in sternness or ambivalence. He is fully committed to be gracious to us, to bless us, to have His favor rest on us.
And in all this, we cannot merit His grace in any way or add to it, or repay God for it, or enhance it by our devotion to God. It is a gift without expectation by God of receiving anything from us in return. It is given to us according to His good pleasure.
We praise Him for His glorious grace. We thank Him for His graciousness towards us. We shout for joy that He graced our lives. But none of these actions caused God to give us His grace. These are our reactions to having received grace from God.
See Pt. 5
Giving, witnessing, making disciples, praying, teaching Bible, preaching, etc are works "OF" righteousness; not works "FOR" righteousness.
May we be faithful in our walk with CHRIST. November 16, 2023
2 Corinthians 9:8 In the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ. Amen
A visitor to a large Church wandered into a back room accidentally. In this room were Money Counters and a Enormous amount of money laid across the tables. He was embarrassed and apologized and the Counters were shocked that someone would walk in. One of the Counters trying to get rid of the awkwardness said , Well The Church can't say Silver and Gold have I None anymore. As He closed the door, God spoke to Him and He stuck His head back around and said, No and neither can They say Rise and Walk in The Name of Jesus. The Tenth is upheld by a Religious Organization that mirrors that of Christ's day. Burdens too Grievous to be bourne for so Many. I am a Minister,a Pastor. I understand the Financial needs of the Church. But this Doctrine of not paying a Tenth is Jeopardizing Your Soul or if you only pay a fifth, etc,just keep it. You are going to be Cursed and Die and go to Hell is Blasphemous. It's Rejecting the Works and Salvation of God. Paul said to Give as You have Prospered . Jesus said whatever You have freely received then freely give. Now,,, if You are willing to Walk by Faith and not by SIGHT and trust God. You will begin to give beyond Your means. Not because of a Denomination or Man or Pressure. But God is going to deal with You and test You and see if You are Trustworthy. The reason a lot of People don't have much or struggle financially continually even in the Church is because They are not Givers. I gave 20 dollars in 1996 when I had literally 23 dollars. God put the 20 in My hand that Night .
I believe God's plan of finance for His Baptist Church's is to be tithes and offerings. Scriptural giving is one of the fundamentals of the faith. I believe that every Believer, as a steward of that portion of God's wealth entrusted to him or her, is obligated to support his or her Baptist Church financially. I believe that God has established the tithe as a basis of giving but that every Believer should also give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of his or her Baptist Church for the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel. I believe that Church members are commanded to bring their tithes and offerings into the Storehouse (Common Treasury) of their Baptist Church upon the first day of the week (Sunday). I believe that a Believer relinquishes all rights to direct the use of the tithe or offering once the gift has been made. I believe under grace we give, and do not pay, the tithe - "Abraham GAVE a tenth part of all." "Abraham GAVE the tenth part of the spoils," and this was four hundred years before the Law, and is confirmed in the New Testament, the Lord Jesus Himself said concerning the tithe, "... these ought ye to have done ..." ( Genesis 14:20; Leviticus 27:30; Proverbs 3:9, 10; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42; Acts 4:34, 35, 37; 1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8:7; 2 Corinthians 9:6, 7; Galatians 6:6; Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 5:17, 18; Hebrews 7:2, 4; 1 John 3:17).
Purpose pursuit must be sovereign resolve. My success must be anchored in what God says on every area of my life. I must show God's works in my life.
1. Success prospective Anchored in God
2. S aligned with God spiritual priority that is aligned in God's word matt 6:33
Doing it God's way, seek God in every area
3. I must stay praying. He said He will grant my desires
Staying prayerful always Jeremy 33:3
I must have a lifestyle of praying. Breakthrough is inevitable
4. Must have a strategic plan analysis prov 24:3 Things don't just happen it must be planned ex. The process of buying my house. I must write the vision make it plain. Time to write plan for everything.
I will have a surge and surplus for my life and Newlight
CCC.
5. Sovereign planting in Agreement with scripture
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 God will use others favor to help me! Sowing will activate a covenant promise from God that He will Bless Me. Malachi 3:8 I want to live in a open house of God's Blessings
6. Sanctioned Partnerships matt 18:19
I want Faith Filled Agreement Agents. 2or3 in Agreement
7. Scriptural proclamation prov 18:20-21
I must speak life into my situations, family,home job,over My Pastor over my church, etc. I must monitor what comes out of my mouth.
8. Shun persecution from All Opposition 2 Timothy 3:11-12 Haters the devi. Remember on the other side is the blessings. No platform for such. No attention of such. God will pull me in front of those and show Himself in my life and situation. My DNA is built to outlast persecution
9 Steadfast perseverance over setbacks heb 10:35-36
Never give up
10. Supernatural Praise for accelerated manifestation. Heaven takes notice just as Paul and Saulus the chains fell off in the midsts of it!!!
Tithes was an OT law to ONLY the Levitical priesthood. Jesus, as you know, was the fulfilling of the law. End changed a few things in the NT. When he was here, the tithing was in effect. But after him, it wasn't.
I'm sure there are those who will disagree and that's fine. But if you are "required" to give, how "cheerful" is that? How could that NOT be of "necessity"? How can one "purpose" in his heart, if he/she is "compelled" to give 10%? Jesus brought mercy and grace. The Law was force.
I do believe in giving. I think God works in each person's heart as to how, when, which cause, how much, etc. I would say it's a personal thing between a person and God. He doesn't "need" our money. It's the point of helping and doing it cheerfully to bless. We are a vessel that should flow. We get, we give, we receive, repeat.
Well said. Jesus has become a curse for us all on the cross ( Galatians 3:13), so now every believer that is covered with His Blood is protected. In fact there are no curses at all (from God) in the world even for unbelievers since we live in the age of Grace, not Law.
Now about tenths, Paul in 1 Cor 16:2 says "Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come". So there isn't a fixed amount of money that we should give to the church, ie tenths, but a much as we wish to give, if we have anything to give.
GBU
Concerning giving i know God cares more about worshiping him with all our hearts with all our mind and soul in his house more than Tith.
Infact God said to the People of Israel he did not speak to them about burnt offering by They ware to obey his words which they failed and got carried away by Burnt offering
Jeremiah 7:22
For in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, I did not speak to your fathers or command them q concerning burnt offerings and sacrifices. 23 But this command I gave them: r 'Obey my voice, and sI will be your God, and you shall be my people. t And walk in all the way that I command you, u that it may be well with you.'
I pray this gives you understanding.
So Please Pray and ask God to help you understand.
Malachi 3:11 Context 8Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. 9Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. 10Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. 11And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. 12And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts.
CHEERFUL GIVER
2 Corinthians 9:6 - 7 6But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
BIBLICAL DEFINITION OF TERMS
TITHES = NOTE: God created and owned all things. You and I are servants or stewards of God. So God doesn't need our money, BUT wants what tithes represent: our hearts, trust and faith in Him. As our Father, He is teaching us to always put God first in our lives.
OFFERINGS = represent the best fruit of our labor offered to God as a return of thanks for God's favors, love, and blessings.
This command of tithing wasn't given nor applied to the Church, as the Church (at least in New Testament times), didn't have paid clergy or even a rented building & utilities supplied. Their giving was for the needs of one another & maybe their community ( Acts 2:41-47), thereby fulfilling the Command of Christ to love the LORD thy God and to love your neighbour as yourself. But as the Church grew & spread, the Apostle Paul made the believers aware that some of their Jerusalem brethren weren't doing so well in material things. So Paul sometimes collected stuff to take to them ( 1 Corinthians 16:1-3). So apart from these instances of providing relief to those in need, we don't read that tithing was practised. Rather, that Christians should not give grudgingly but willingly & cheerfully ( 2 Corinthians 9:6-8).
So, as much as tithing is not prescribed for the Church today, I believe that it should be a proper & sacrificial response to help in the support of a Church ministry, that now has far more expenses than the early Church. And not limited to a tenth on one's earnings, but also to share more if possible for other programs & missionary endeavours of the Church. But we're not limited to giving ten percent nor are we compelled to do so.
God is true to His words. I stop thinking. Surely understand to walk in Spirit.
My heart already literally stopped last year due to COVID and yet God brought me back. I know I still have things to do for His Glory.
Deuteronomy 33:25
Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.
26
There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun, who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in his excellency on the sky.
27
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them.
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." Revelation 12:11 KJV
Agape
My opinion on the topic of tithes does not fall in line with that most Christian pastors say.
First I'd have to define tithe- what exactly is being tithed? I believe in the verses in the old testament that talk about tithing included food, cattle, grain. The paper of money in itself is worthless, it only represents a credit towards trading things. I personally believe that one's time and labor have just as much value. Sometimes its more meaningful to personally help someone directly rather than hire someone to do the same thing. Like raking leaves in your grandmother's yard, or helping someone in need find a job.
Next, the 10 percent figure is only in the old testament. The new testament says this for example: 2 Corinthians 9:7. When most speak of tithing they speak of an obligation to fulfill, but here it says don't do that. It specifically says not to do grudgingly or out of necessity, but as he purposeth in his heart. Maybe God doesn't even want us to keep track, but to just give generously as the opportunities present themselves, without guilt or shame for meeting an potentially unnecessary percent figure that isn't discussed in the new testament. To me this means helping people maybe like Jesus did. I don't think you have to have money to help people. It's my opinion that this interpretation is a little closer to the intent behind 2 Cor 9:7.
Finally, I strongly dislike mega churches who pay pastors six figure salaries, have state of the art sound and lighting systems, and they meet once a week for an hour then the building sits vacant 95% of the week. Think of elderly on social security tithing to help a rich pastor get richer and for them to buy more HD projectors, and heat/AC bills for a mostly empty building. That seems wrong to me. It would seem to help people more to give to a charity that is more efficient as found through charity ratings site, or to even better to help a neighbor directly. God bless.
Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts.
Psalms 119:46 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.
2 Kings 8:11 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
And he settled his countenance stedfastly, until he was ashamed: and the man of God wept.
Hosea 4:19 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
The wind hath bound her up in her wings, and they shall be ashamed because of their sacrifices.
Romans 9:33 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
2 Corinthians 9:4 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.
2 Timothy 1:16 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:
Isaiah 45:17 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
But Israel shall be saved in the LORD with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end.
Job 11:3 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Should thy lies make men hold their peace? and when thou mockest, shall no man make thee ashamed?
Romans 5:5 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
2 Corinthians 9:7 God loveth a cheerful giver.
Malachi 3:8-12 - Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
Malachi 3:10 - Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Matthew 6:1-4 - Take heed that ye do not your giving before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 23:23 - Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Luke 6:38 - Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye give withal it shall be measured to you again.
Luke 11:42 - But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Luke 18:12 - I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. [don't brag]
Acts 2:44-47 - And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
Acts 20:35 - I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
1 Corinthians 16:2 - Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 2 Corinthians 8:1-24
Give to missionaries
On the contary, Paul in his epistle to 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 is very clear about it. "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come".
See also 2 Corinthians 9:7 "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver" If there would still be tenths he wouldn't ask this but he would demand that corinthians kept the commadement.
No one can demand such thing.
Paul in his last meeting with the elders of Ephesus Acts 20:17-36 (see v 33-35) asks them to serve the members of the church there free, like he was always doing. Why? Because he didn't want them to put such a heavy weight on christians there. So how about asking now for 10%? No, certainly not. GBU
There is no place in the NT that commands a believer to tithe. The OT tithe requirement meant that you were to give 10 percent of everything you owned, not just money. How many do that today? Now, if a believer chooses to give 10 percent of their income to the church, that's okay, but it's not required.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 gives us the principles of giving. "But this I say, He which sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which sows bountifully, (and that's the word blessing). He who sows a blessing shall also reap a blessing. Every man according as he purposes in his own heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, (that's the word grief), or of necessity: (and that's the word pressure), for God loves a cheerful giver.
The term cheerful giver in the Greek is the word hilarious. God loves a hilarious giver. And no, I've never seen one!
This is also covered in Proverbs. Basically, God's principle is this: He blesses us with more than our necessity, because we are a steward of our possessions that belong to Christ. There are needs in the body of Christ and a lot of them God creates on purpose just so we participate in helping those in need.
There's a principle in the OT that's carried over that if God blesses us with an abundance of more than what we need, and we decide to spend it on ourselves, He has a way of making that money go to waste if we're not going to use it under His direction.
I'm not saying that everything we spend on ourselves is selfish. I'm just stating principle. We are dictating to God what He gives to us. If I'm going to sow sparingly, I'm going to reap sparingly. But if we sow a blessing, we reap a blessing!
It's a heart condition, not an amount. It's the attitude of what we do with what God gives us. It's up to each individual to purpose in their own heart whether they want to be the steward of their possessions in service to Christ. We're not to give out of grief, nor out of stress, for God loves a cheerful giver!