Tithing: The Government & Taxes

Government Taxes Replace Theocratic Tithes (Romans 13:1-7) Paul is speaking specifically about governmental authorities, directing that taxes be paid to the state. In this case, Rome had replaced the theocracy in the governing of Israel. Though the Law of Moses was respected as tradition by the Romans, and the Israelites were allowed to follow the commandments, Israel was no longer a theocracy, and was not free to worship God the way God had commanded them to. Summary of Tithing Under Grace Throughout the New Testament, Paul's vocabulary and teaching suggest that giving is voluntary and that there is no set percentage. In fact, nowhere in the New Testament are believers told to tithe by anyone! Or even how much to give, when or to whom. They are only encouraged to provide for those who are in need, their ministers, and for the stranger. WHERE ARE WE NOW? Under Law? Under the Law, relationship with God is defined by how well you fulfill His commandments. Anyone can attempt do this; you don't have to know God to tithe. Tithing doesn't bring anyone into a closer relationship with God or with others, and it doesn't contribute to a relationship that already exists. Grace Full Relationship! We still find it so hard to comprehend that the God of the universe loves us so much that there is nothing He requires of us but to accept His love. He provides for us because He loves us. CONSEQUENCES (Why Is This So Important?) Matter of Control How much, when and to whom we give of our resources, our time and our money, is often one of the ways we gain or maintain control. Believers Not Learning How to Hear the Lord Social Infrastructure Based on Money   Not Giving God's Way is Contrary to Our New Nature