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sheep wrecked · (This post was last modified: 07-21-2009 04:28 PM by sheep wrecked.)

(07-21-2009 02:17 PM)Marcus64 Wrote: Hi!

I am still having such a hard time dealing with the fact that tithing is being taught as scriptural support for the Pastor. I was previously in a Oneness Pentecostal church that taught this false doctrine. My wife is still in the church and still believes it to be true. That would be fine, but the fact is that we cannot afford to have her pay 10% of her gross income every week. We are having serious automobile problems and can't even afford to get them taken care of, yet she still believes that she needs to give tithes every week regardless. It is taught that in Micah God is going to "curse" those who "rob" Him of the tithes. It is also taught that Paul said that he (and all of God's called , meaning Pastors) should be able to "live from the gospel" (can't remember which book or verse) meaning that they should not have to work secular jobs because the tithing is mainly to support them and take care of their needs (housing cost, utilities, etc,)
Sorry, I am venting a little. It is just frustrating to see that we are having finincial issues and even though her Pastor knows this, he tells her to "keep being faithful in giving your tithes and God will bless you for it" even if it means not being able to pay your bills. She is totally sold on the idea and won't hear any arguments against it or even look at scripture that clearly shows that the way they present it is terribly wrong. Please pray for us. Thanks for letting me vent. Have a great day!

God Bless,

Mark

Hi Mark!

We would love it if you would take a minute and introduce yourself in the Introduction Thread found here:

http://www.seekgod.ca/forum/forumdisplay.php?fid=17

7143

The problem with a 10% tithe is that it can't be found in the NT Sign0007

Paul says that we are to give from the heart. James indicates that giving includes other things than money - like clothing or food. In today's world - helping others in whatever way is needed as God leads.

The OT tithe never included money [it was produce and animals and done at specific times. There were more than one tithe, by the way - I have heard a total of about 27%]. So somewhere along the line that got all twisted into the doctrine of giving money. Perhaps because Paul said that IF people wanted to give something to him they should set it aside - as they felt in their heart.

When Paul stated that leaders should receive some kind of compensation, he was not referring to giving them a salary, a house, a car, and a nice pension. Paul actually supported himself. He was a tent maker and made a huge point of instructing that one should work, not expect others to supply their needs.

I have seen many well meaning Christians try to tithe when they can't pay their own bills. This is not scriptural. When a pastor tells a person that they just need to keep tithing no matter what in order to be blessed, that is, in my opinion - magic.

Vic has a real good series on tithing found here - it's a very comprehensive look at what the tithe was and what the NT has to say on giving:

http://www.seekgod.ca/tithing.htm