[Sean]

Originally Posted by Jason Badejo

Yes I pastor. No I don't teach on giving in the formal sense. That's not to say I won't, I have taught it in passing when I taught through Proverbs. Right now I am preaching most Sundays through the book of Mark.

I have only been pastor here for about 15 months and the church has had a lot of challenges. (Before I began preaching here the church endured a split over Calvinism). We really are almost starting from the ground up. So there's a lot I want to teach in time but haven't yet. I do intend to teach on giving eventually but I'm in no hurry to get to that particular subject. However my views on tithing have been the same for the last several years both as an asst pastor (in 2 other congregations) and now as a pastor (in the current church). It has nothing to do with where one serves in the church the question is what do the scriptures teach.

The church is supported by freewill offerings. I don't collect the money out of the box or pay the bills so I'm not sure who gives what nor do I much care. I am comfortable leaving that between them and God, my desire is to bring them close to Christ. If I can do that giving will never be an issue whether to the church or to their neighbor in need. I know there was a brother coming who was faithfully tithing and I didn't discourage him. I don't tell people they can't tithe. I simply don't tell them they have to. We do not take up an offering during church service.

I don't think overhead is wrong. But our church building is paid off and me not taking a salary really keeps bills low. Our monthly bills are probably about $300-$500 per month. Church insurance has to be paid once a year.

The congregation is small but beginning to grow. Right now my focus is on rebuilding that church. Lots more to the story but I'd prefer to talk about it privately.

Jason, this post my brother is APOSTOLIC. I wish all could get your concept of offerings. That post you have here is exemplified of the ministry of Paul himself.....Acts 20:33...... I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.

34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.

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.

Dont ever change my brother.