A(n almost) finale comment: If anyone is convicted in their heart that tithing is a personal requirement upon you – even established and settled by the Spirit of God, then by all means continue to tithe! Do not allow anyone to persuade you differently! If, on the other hand you are convinced that you should give according to your ability, intent and clear conscience before God then let that be your guide. And, let us all be joyful in our hearts with the free giving of our substance to further the work of our Lord’s kingdom, and not under compulsion or the judgments of men.
For those who wish to teach on tithing, here is the place to start:
The Ten Mitzvot concerning tithes:
- Not to eat untithed fruits
Lev. 22:15
- To separate the tithe for the poor
Deut. 14:28
- To set aside Terumah Gedolah (tithe for the Kohen)
Deut. 18:4
- The Levite must set aside a tenth of his tithe
Num. 18:26
- Not to preface one tithe to the next, but separate them in their proper order
Ex. 22:28
- To set aside Ma'aser (tithe) each planting year and give it to a Levite
Num. 18:24
- To set aside the second tithe (Ma'aser Sheni)
Deut. 14:22
- To read the confession of tithes every fourth and seventh year
Deut. 26:13
- Separate the tithe from animals
Lev. 27:32
- Not to redeem the tithe
Lev. 27:33
To understand what these laws represent and how they should be observed (followed, obeyed), may I suggest a complete reading of the books of Levities and Deuteronomy and then study the Midrash concerning these books.
To this study, add the teaching:
- Who makes up the priesthood in the church (assembly, synagogue) today?
- From whom does that priesthood receive tithes, when everyone is a member of that same royal priesthood?
- To whom does the priesthood pay their tithes on the tithes they have received? The High Priest? And, who is that, if not Jesus Christ, Himself?
- So, what is the biblical bases for tithing (not giving, offerings, etc.) in the church today (as referenced above, book, chapter and verse would be nice.)?
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