[The Lemon]

James -

Thanks for taking the time to type all this info. Very well put together. I agree with supporting the local ministry, and def. charities outside of the four walls. However, I disagree on one major point.

I know this has been debated for A LONG TIME, and on this forum in particular, however, the subject of the Tithe and its necessity in the NT Church is to me an issue of paramount importance.

After having served God and been in ministry for a total of 16-years, I have many stories to tell, trust me. That being said, I have questioned the motive and stance that so many protestant church's take on the tithe, or the tenth. It amazes me that a statement can be made that the Tithe is for the local assembly when there is absolutely no scriptural foundation in the NT to support such a claim or teaching.

If I am missing something, I am not oppesed to eating crowe, repenting, and doing it "right" I just do not see part of the "law" supported in the NT, while it is o.k. to ignore the rest. I have heard all the reasoning from Abraham paying tithes, to Jesus supposedly endosing it and their are holes in this theology the size of Jupiter.

What is apparent to me is that a Christain is supposed to be a giver, and yes we should not muzzle the ox that treads, that being said, the only command I see is that we:

A. Give
B. Give Cheerfully

Somebody is going to have to show me what I am missing. After hours and hours of study, I just can't see the traditional mindset of Tithing as being scripturally sound the way is is proported today. I have been blessed tremendously over the years, and yes I have been an avid Tither, but I believe the blessing to be in the motive and principle of giving, not in the set least percentage.

And, your point of managing our money and staying away from debit is so true and well said.

Thx