I have already stated my open mindedness concerning the tithe. I teach tithing in my church by example, but it is not an absolute % that is enforced on people heaven or hell.
Though, I am concerned for most people who have a problem committing such a small amount to the work of God. For those who totally argue against tithing I sometimes wonder how much they actually give.
I know we can give in many other ways than just dollars and cents, but in this nation of America it seems to be most important. I believe one of the top troubles in American married couples is finances. I have heard of people ending there lives because of financial stress and that shows the importance of money in our nation.
All that being said, wouldn't you think that God does care how much we give financially to his work. It has been said, that the church system as we know it needs to come crashing down. I agree with that statement in many ways, but it is not just church buildings and pastors who have fault. Many who complain how lavish churches and pastors live are not doing without too many luxuries themselves.
In a nutshell, don't tithe if you don't' want to. Whether or not the whole Church system needs to come crashing down? I would rather let God decide about that.
P.S. We will be feeding bus children from tough neighborhoods in our community tomorrow morning because, of people who pay tithes. We don't have a lavish building structure nor does the pastor receive a big salary, but we do love souls.
Acts 5:38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: 39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God