Author's
Foreword
In today's commercialized
world, it is an undeniable truth that Christian ministry has often turned into
a profession. The original purpose of ministry—to proclaim the gospel of
Christ's salvation—has shifted, with ministry becoming a means for some to sustain
their livelihood. This has created a negative perception of Christianity among
those who do not know Christ. Unfortunately, even sincere, and genuine
ministers of the gospel face disrepute because of this trend.
Ministry is meant to be
Christ's ministry, not the minister's personal enterprise. Therefore, believers
must exercise caution when dealing with ministries that ask for money under the
guise of offerings.
A careful study of the Bible
reveals that the financial approach to gospel proclamation by many of today's
ministers is fundamentally flawed. This book aims to provide clarity on this
issue based on biblical principles. Jesus not only instructed us to live
without deceit, like doves, but also to be wise, like serpents (Matthew 10:16).
The Tamil version of this
small book was published in 2005. It has now been translated into English to
help more people understand the facts about tithing.
Read thoughtfully, act wisely, and receive God's
blessings!
***
In
Christian congregations, particularly in spiritual assemblies, there is a
significant emphasis on preaching about tithes and the blessings associated
with giving offerings. Jesus Christ gave us love as the primary commandment,
yet teachings about offerings—especially tithes—seem to have taken precedence
in today’s churches.
When questioned about this,
preachers often respond, "Isn’t this an important topic? The main
reason many believers miss out on blessings today is their failure to give
tithes. That’s why we emphasize it."
On the flip side, tithing
has also become a source of conflict among church leaders. For instance, there
was an incident where a college professor, who had been faithfully attending
and offering tithes at one church, suddenly stopped attending and joined
another church. Angered by this, the pastor of the first church confronted the
new pastor, saying, "How could you bring my member here?" The
argument escalated.
What caused such a reaction?
Was it concern for the professor’s spiritual well-being or the loss of the Rs.
2,000 monthly tithe that led to the pastor's anger?
Another prevalent teaching
in churches is the promise of blessings multiplying twofold or tenfold for
those who give offerings to God. This has led to a trend where people seek
Christ primarily for material gain, resulting in increased church attendance.
However, the true purpose of Christ's coming—to redeem us from sin and grant
eternal life—has been overshadowed by teachings that focus solely on material
blessings.
Just as earthly
relationships often revolve around financial considerations, our relationship
with God has also become materialistic. Why has this happened? It’s time for
spiritually minded individuals to reflect.
Offering to God is
undoubtedly an act of glorifying Him and will bring blessings. But these
blessings are not limited to financial or worldly gains. They include spiritual
blessings such as holiness, truth, love, patience, and divine peace—qualities
that sanctify and elevate a person spiritually. Such blessings cannot be
purchased with money.
Christian living has been
misunderstood today. Attending church services, joining prayer meetings, paying
tithes, and taking part in baptism rituals—regardless of genuine repentance—are
often equated with true Christian life.
During a conversation with a
fellow believer about tithes, I asked him, "Why do you give
tithes?" His response shocked me: "To avoid being cursed by
God. That’s why I give offerings."
This highlights the kind of
teachings shaping the faith of believers today!
"Perfect Love Casts Out
Fear"
The Bible declares, "There
is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear... The one who fears is not
made perfect in love" (1 John 4:18). If we have perfect love for God,
why then do we experience fear?
Once, a brother approached
me with a question about tithing:
"Brother, should we calculate the tithe on our total income or only on
the net amount after deductions such as provident fund and other
withholdings?"
What a deeply thoughtful and
biblical question!
Money is indeed essential
for human life—there is no denying that. But life is not solely about money,
nor is it about spiritual life. Today, many ministers boast of a so-called
revival among the people of Tamil Nadu, citing the large crowds that gather at
conventions. These crowds are often drawn by messages cantered on
"blessings." But the truth is different. Many lack genuine spiritual
life. Though people fervently pray and attend prayer meetings, their lives
often lack integrity and a good testimony.
The path of Christ is not
one of comfort or ease—it is a path filled with thorns and hardships. Jesus
Himself described it as the narrow gate, which few find.
During Jesus’ ministry on
earth, many who heard His teachings said, "This is a hard
teaching," and turned away from Him. Jesus then asked His twelve
disciples, "You do not want to leave too, do you?" Peter
replied, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal
life."
The words of Christ are the
life of a Christian. Living according to those words is true spiritual living.
The Bible makes it clear that Christians will face tribulations, suffering, and
sorrow in this world. Yet, amidst these trials, the peace of God will fill
their hearts. This is the true reward of a Christian!
For those who desire to grow
in spiritual experiences in Christ, it is essential to gain clarity on these
truths.
The purpose of tithing—why
it is to be given, to whom it should be given, and the attitude with which it
should be given—is addressed in the following pages. I have attempted to
provide some clarity on these topics. Continue reading with a spiritually discerning
mind.
The Biblical Reference to
Tithing: An Introduction
The first mention of tithing
in the Holy Bible appears in the Book of Genesis. It is associated with
Abraham, the patriarch of faith.
Abraham learned that his
nephew Lot had been taken captive. He set out with his men, defeated the enemy
kings, and rescued Lot. After this victory, Melchizedek, the king of Salem and
a priest of the Most High God, brought bread and wine and blessed Abraham. In
response, Abraham gave him a tenth of everything (Genesis 14).
The New Testament sheds
further light on Melchizedek's identity through the writings of the Apostle Paul:
“This Melchizedek was without father or mother, without genealogy, without
beginning of days or end of life, resembling the Son of God, he remains a
priest forever." (Hebrews 7:3).
This passage clearly
indicates that Melchizedek is a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the King of
Salem. Abraham gave his tithe to him.
However, it is important to
note that the Bible does not say that God blessed Abraham because he
gave the tithe. Instead, Abraham was blessed for his obedience and faith in
God's command: "Because you have obeyed me... through your offspring
all nations on earth will be blessed" (Genesis 22:18).
Tithing and God's Blessings
The first person in the
Bible to explicitly link tithing with receiving blessings was Jacob. He made a
vow to God: "If God will be with me and watch over me on this journey I
am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear so that I return
safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God... and of all
that you give me, I will give you a tenth." (Genesis 28:20-22).
Jacob’s vow, however, was
not made from greed or a desire for worldly gain. He had already been blessed
by God before making this promise. When God revealed His blessings to Jacob, he
responded with gratitude through this vow.
God’s earlier promise to
Jacob was: "I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God
of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are
lying... All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. I
am with you and will watch over you wherever you go." (Genesis
28:13-15).
Jacob’s vow was thus a
reflection of a heartfelt relationship with God—a dialogue, not a transaction.
God promised blessings, and Jacob responded with a commitment.
However, what can be said of
those who live ungodly lives yet hope to secure blessings by giving tithes? Can
worldly blessings alone be equated with divine blessings? And is it appropriate
to preach that giving tithes guarantees such blessings?
Misinterpretations of
Tithing Today
One verse that is frequently
cited by many ministers to emphasize the blessings tied to tithing is Malachi
3:10: "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be
food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see
if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing
that there will not be room enough to store it."
While this verse is often
used to encourage people to tithe with the promise of material prosperity, it
is essential to understand its spiritual context. True divine blessings extend
beyond material wealth to include spiritual growth, righteousness, peace, and
eternal life.
Worldly prosperity as the
sole focus of sermons undermines the essence of God’s blessings and reduces
tithing to a mere financial transaction. Preaching such a message not only
misleads believers but also distorts the deeper spiritual truths of the Bible.
Some people who cite the
above verse skillfully omit its first part.
In those days, it was
customary to provide food in temples for the poor, orphans, and widows to eat.
This is what the first part of the verse, "so that there may be food in my
house," refers to. Today, that practice is no longer followed. Even those
ministers who quote the above verse do not seem to practice such food
distribution nowadays. Furthermore, the Bible does not instruct that the entire
tithe should be given to the ministers alone. Instead, the Bible specifies who
should receive it:
"When you have finished
setting aside a tenth of all your produce in the third year, the year of the
tithe, you shall give it to the Levites, the foreigners, the fatherless, and
the widows, so that they may eat in your towns and be satisfied."
(Deuteronomy 26:12)
In other words, giving to
foreigners, the fatherless, and widows is equivalent to giving to God. Thus,
giving to the poor is also a pleasing offering to God. The Bible states: "Whoever
is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they
have done." (Proverbs 19:17)
Moreover, the blessings that
God gives are not limited to financial blessings. God's blessings cannot be
earned or measured with money. It is the cheerful and willing giving from the
heart that God accepts as an offering. Those who give offerings to God expecting
monetary returns do not truly know Him.
"Do not love the world
or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not
in them." (1 John 2:15). With what mindset are we
giving?
Additionally, the practice
of tithing was emphasized during the time of the Law. After Jesus Christ
suffered, died, and was glorified, we have entered the period of grace.
Therefore, the rules of the Law do not apply to the period of grace. God
examines the state of a person’s heart.
"Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the
works of the law." (Romans 3:20) For this reason, the New Testament
does not emphasize tithing in any place.
The Commandment of Tithing
The practice of giving a
tithe, a tenth of one's income or produce, as a commandment is mentioned in the
book of Leviticus:
"Every tithe of the
land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the
Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord." (Leviticus 27:30)
When the Lord allocated the
land of Canaan, which He had promised to the Israelites, to the twelve tribes,
He explicitly stated that the Levites would not receive a portion of the land.
Instead, He declared Himself as their inheritance.
"The Lord said to
Aaron, ‘You shall have no inheritance in their land, neither shall you have any
portion among them. I am your portion and your inheritance among the people of
Israel.’" (Numbers 18:20)
Furthermore, God provided
for the Levites, who were tasked with the service of the Tabernacle, by
assigning to them the tithes collected from the Israelites.
"To the Levites I have
given every tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service
that they do, their service in the tent of meeting."
(Numbers 18:21)
The Levites, dedicated to
the temple service, were not to be distracted by worldly possessions. God
desired their complete devotion to their ministry. Since they would require
material resources for their livelihood, the tithe was instituted.
"It is your
compensation for your service in the tent of meeting."
(Numbers 18:31)
Additionally, the priests
were instructed to offer a tithe from the tithes they received, demonstrating
the principle that even those who serve God must contribute from what they
receive.
"Out of all the gifts
you receive, you are to present the Lord’s portion, the best and holiest part,
as the portion to the Lord." (Numbers 18:28)
However, over time, the
commandment of tithing lost its spiritual significance. People began to
approach it as a mere ritual. Some believed that by giving a tenth of their
income, regardless of the means by which they acquired it, they could secure
divine favor. Others even offered sacrifices from ill-gotten wealth.
Priests, too, began misusing
their privileges, focusing more on the material gains from the tithes and
offerings than on their service to God. This deviation is exemplified in the
actions of Eli’s sons as described in the Bible:
"This was the practice
of the priests with the people: Whenever anyone offered a sacrifice, the
priest’s servant would come with a three-pronged fork in his hand while the
meat was being boiled. He would plunge the fork into the pan, kettle, cauldron,
or pot, and whatever the fork brought up the priest would take for himself...
The sin of the young men was very great in the sight of the Lord, for they
treated the Lord’s offering with contempt." (1
Samuel 2:13–17)
Prophets like Isaiah and
Jeremiah vehemently condemned such corruption. Isaiah spoke God’s lament:
"What to me is the
multitude of your sacrifices? says the Lord; I have had enough of burnt
offerings of rams and the fat of well-fed beasts... When you come to appear
before me, who has required of you this trampling of my courts? Bring no more
vain offerings." (Isaiah 1:11–13)
Even today, there are
instances where church leaders exploit tithing for personal gain. Some use
emotional manipulation to compel believers to give. For example, in one church,
a pastor harshly reprimanded a believer for offering less than expected, calling
him a modern-day Ananias and prophesying doom upon him.
Such actions mirror the
greed of Balaam, who was hired by Balak to curse Israel but ultimately realized
that blessing Israel was God’s will. (Numbers 23–24) However, unlike Balaam,
who chose to bless, some modern-day leaders curse believers over financial
matters.
Jesus Christ instructed, "Bless
those who curse you." (Luke 6:28) Let us follow His teaching, praying
that God opens the eyes and hearts of those misled by greed. May they return to
a sincere and faithful ministry.
Can God's Blessings be
Received Through Money?
There are many preachers and
workers who are driven by material desires, and in some cases, these
individuals contribute to the corruption of the Christian faith. Even
non-Christians and, at times, Christians themselves mock the advertisements and
methods used by such preachers to gather money. It cannot be dismissed as
incorrect or untrue when they mock and criticize such practices.
If a preacher needs a
computer, a building, or a vehicle for their ministry, they may advertise this
need and claim that "God is pleased with the one who gives
generously." They might even use the verse from Malachi 3:10, which talks
about bringing tithes into the storehouse, as a justification.
But can someone truly
receive God's blessings through money? Is it true that by giving money, one can
make God favor them? Does the Bible support such a notion?
The Bible says that
attempting to gain blessings through money leads to a curse. If God were to
bless someone by receiving money, then those business people who give to
well-known preachers would be the ones receiving blessings today.
In the city of Samaria,
there was a magician named Simon, who was believed by many to possess great
power from God. But when Philip, a believer, preached about Jesus Christ,
Simon's heart was moved. However, Simon, who had lived his life viewing money
as a deity, did not abandon the thought that money could achieve anything.
When Peter and John came and
prayed for the people, laying their hands on them, they received the Holy
Spirit. Upon seeing this, Simon approached Peter, offering money and asking
that he too might receive the power to lay hands on others so they could receive
the Holy Spirit. Peter rebuked him, saying, "Your money perish with you,
because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!"
(Acts 8:20). He continued, "Your heart is not right before God. Repent of
this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for having
such a thought in your heart" (Acts 8:22).
Simon's thinking was that
blessings could be obtained through money, but Peter rebuked him for this wrong
thinking, saying that his heart was not pure before God. He did not say,
"Your thoughts will be forgiven," but instead expressed uncertainty,
saying, "Perhaps your thoughts will be forgiven." This shows that
Peter considered the idea of trying to buy blessings with money to be a grave
error.
But today, many Christians
no longer focus on personal spiritual transformation or the necessity of a holy
life. Instead, there is an emphasis on the idea that if one gives a monetary
offering, God will bless them.
Jeremiah 6:13 states,
"From the least of them to the greatest of them, everyone is greedy for
gain; from the prophet to the priest, everyone deals falsely." This
passage is particularly relevant to the current situation.
God, through the prophet
Jeremiah, condemned the falsehood in the hearts of the people, but such corrupt
practices are still prevalent today. In a recent article by a prominent
preacher in Tamil Nadu, he shares the following account:
"I recently met a
friend who had once been living in a good financial condition but now found
himself trapped in poverty, having lost all his wealth. I asked him, 'Brother,
how did you end up in this condition?' He replied, 'I used to faithfully give
my tithes to the Lord every month, but I stopped doing so, and now the Lord has
brought me to this state.'"
What a deceptive and
manipulative message to deceive people!
In the same article, the
preacher continues to write:
A brother gave me ₹50 as an
offering. I asked him, "Brother, why are you giving this offering?"
He replied, "I am giving it to the Lord." I told him, "Giving
like that is not a blessing. You should give believing that the Lord will bless
it and return it manifold. That is when it will truly happen." He agreed
and said he would give with such faith. The next day, he received ₹50,000
through his cousin.
How foolish this thinking
is! Some devotees publish pamphlets saying things like, "I prayed to
this deity, and I received these benefits. The deity even appeared in my dream
and asked me to do this. I printed a thousand copies of this miracle notice and
distributed them within seven days. Someone who didn't believe this bled to death
in Allahabad. But a person from Madurai who printed and distributed the notices
won ₹1 million in the lottery." Such stories continue to circulate in
these pamphlets.
What is the difference
between such pamphlets and the above article of this preacher?
"Woe to the shepherds
who feed only themselves!" (Isaiah 34:2) — the Bible
laments for such people.
"Give, and it shall be
given to you"
Another popular verse often
used by ministers to justify their collections is:
"Give, and it shall be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap" (Luke
6:38).
The foundation of
Christianity is giving. Christ gave His very life as a sacrifice for us.
I want to point out one
thing here: all the teachings of Christ are about eternal matters. Though He
used worldly things as parables, He never taught methods to increase worldly
possessions.
"I am from above; you
are from below. I am not of this world" (John 8:23) — this
is what He declared.
"Give, and it shall be
given to you" does not mean giving money to ministers and
receiving blessings from it.
Show love to others, and you
will receive love. Show mercy, and you will receive mercy. A man will reap what
he sows.
It is astonishing how
believers are deceived into trusting preachers who twist scriptures to conceal
divine truths and focus on financial gain.
"You adulterous people!
Don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God?
Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of
God" (James 4:4) — take note of what the Bible says.
Many high-ranking officials,
bankers, and employees send thousands as offerings to well-known ministers
while their own siblings, or even their parents, suffer in poverty without giving
them even a penny of help. Why? To receive double financial blessings?
For those who claim to be
filled with the Holy Spirit, leaping and speaking in tongues, if they truly had
the Spirit of God within them, wouldn’t it convict them that this is wrong?
"If anyone says, 'I
love God,' yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love
his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen" (1
John 4:20) — isn’t this what the Bible says?
Giving with True Love
True love does not expect
anything in return. Can there be love in giving with the expectation that the
receiver will return it manifold? That is commerce. Don’t banks and financial
institutions do the same? Is this what being a Christian and living a Christian
life is about? Unfortunately, today many Christian churches have turned into
commercial marketplaces. The teachings preached there often revolve around
money and financial blessings.
The Bible explicitly and
clearly states that anything done without love is meaningless:
"Even if I give away all I have to the poor and surrender my body to be
burned, but do not have love, I gain nothing" (1 Corinthians 13:3).
Furthermore, it says:"Do
not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love
for the Father is not in them" (1 John 2:15).
The offering that pleases
God is one given with complete love, without expectations.
When Jesus watched people
giving their offerings, He said the poor widow who gave two small coins had
given the most. Others gave out of their abundance, but she gave all she had to
live on!
Her heart was filled with
complete love for God, and that love compelled her to act. She wanted to do
something for God, without even worrying about what she would eat the next day.
She gave everything she had.
However, the Bible does not
say that she received double blessings or any financial return. Despite her
poverty, she did not give expecting financial gain.
Modern-Day
Misinterpretations
I recently watched a TV
program featuring a popular preacher. A businessman shared his testimony,
saying: "Initially, I gave ₹100 as a tithe offering to this ministry.
The Lord blessed me, and I grew to give ₹500 per month. Then I gave ₹1,000,
₹2,000, and now I am giving ₹20,000 monthly because the Lord has lifted me
up."
When the testimony ended,
the preacher asked the businessman, "Brother, why do you give so
generously to the Lord?"
The businessman replied, "Because
the more I give, the more the Lord gives me in return."
The preacher, placing his
hand on the businessman’s shoulder, turned to the audience and said, "Did
you hear that, brothers? Why don’t you also give like this brother and receive
the Lord’s blessings?"
If the businessman had said,
"I give out of love for the Lord," it would be acceptable. But if his
giving stems entirely from greed and a desire to amass more wealth, what does
that offering mean? And if a preacher praises such an offering, what kind of
greed must that preacher possess?
If this businessman is
giving ₹20,000 per month as an offering, his income must be around ₹2,00,000.
How is he earning this money? Is it through honest means? Are his financial
accounts transparent? Is he paying his taxes properly without defrauding the government?
Shouldn’t these questions also be considered?
True Spirituality
A person with genuine love
for God does not love Him to gain worldly rewards. A true believer is someone
who loves God wholeheartedly and remains joyful in any situation.
"Who shall separate us
from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or
nakedness or danger or sword? For I am convinced that neither death nor life,
neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to
separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord"
(Romans 8:36-39).
How can someone say, "I
rejoice in the Lord because He keeps blessing me with money"—is that
true spiritual living?
True faith is reflected in
the words of Habakkuk: "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are
no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no
food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I
will rejoice in the Lord; I will be joyful in God my Savior" (Habakkuk
3:17-18).
This is the mindset of a
person filled with true divine love and spiritual understanding.
The Tithe as Idolatry
The Bible strongly condemns
idolatry. Today, many who identify as spiritual Christians mock and look down
upon Hindu brothers and Catholic Christians, accusing them of idol worship.
These critics often narrowly define idol worship as making a physical image of
God with clay, stone, or wood and bowing down to it. However, the Bible
broadens the definition of idolatry to include greed and the love of money.
Jesus Christ Himself
repeatedly taught that a person obsessed with wealth cannot enter the Kingdom
of God. Apostle Paul also emphasized this:
"For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure, or greedy person—such
a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of
God" (Ephesians 5:5).
If greed is idolatry, then
offerings given with a burning desire to accumulate more wealth are also
idolatry, aren’t they? The deliberate and manipulative methods used by some
leaders to extract offerings from their congregation are likewise idolatrous.
Yes, it is a sorrowful truth
that many who claim to be spiritual Christians and numerous so-called spiritual
churches today have fallen into the trap of idolatry.
Tithing and Baal Worship
In ancient Israel, Baal
worship was widespread. Baal was believed to grant material blessings to his
worshippers. People offered sacrifices and gifts to Baal in exchange for
prosperity.
Similarly, today, many
believe that regardless of their life’s circumstances, offering to God will
result in manifold blessings. Preachers also promote this idea. Many share
testimonies claiming they have received blessings because they gave offerings
to God.
This mentality is rooted in:
- Erroneous preaching
by leaders who distort God’s word.
- Materialistic lifestyles
that do not depend on God.
- The greed of believers,
who see God as a means to financial gain.
Unknowingly or knowingly,
many Christians and churches that claim to be spiritual have plunged into what
can only be compared to modern-day Baal worship.
True Worship vs. Idolatry
True worship is about loving
God wholeheartedly and living according to His will. It does not involve
bargaining with God for material blessings. The Bible calls us to seek first
the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) rather than obsessing
over wealth or worldly gains.
When offerings are given
with the sole expectation of receiving blessings in return, they lose their
spiritual value. They become a transaction, reducing God to a mere instrument
for personal gain. Such practices are no different from idolatry, as they prioritize
material wealth over a genuine relationship with God.
True faith is about trusting
God completely, irrespective of material circumstances. It is about worshipping
Him in spirit and truth, not out of greed or selfish ambition. Let us examine
our motives and ensure that our worship reflects true devotion and love for
God, free from the taint of idolatry.
The Legalistic Approach to
Tithing
Through Moses, God gave the
Israelites various commandments to guide their lives. Among them was the law of
tithing, which required giving a tenth of their income or produce. Many people,
especially religious scholars, believed that fulfilling these laws made them
righteous before God. However, their external compliance often masked the true
state of their hearts, which were filled with corruption.
This is why Jesus declared: "But
I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed
adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). God, who sees the
heart, cannot be deceived by outward actions.
Apostle Paul reaffirmed this
truth, stating: "By the works of the law, no one will be
justified" (Galatians 2:16).
Modern Tithing and Legalism
Today, for many Christians,
giving tithes has become a legalistic ritual similar to the Old Testament law.
Instead of being motivated by love for God, they give out of obligation or
because they are taught it is a commandment. Many church leaders also reinforce
this idea, urging their congregants to give tithes as a binding rule.
While there is nothing wrong
with adhering to a command, what pleases God is when we give out of love, not
compulsion. God desires a cheerful giver, as Paul reminds us: "Each of
you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or
under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Understanding God's Nature
Believers must understand
that God is not a transactional deity who blesses those who give and curses
those who don’t. He examines the heart and the intent behind the offering.
The prophet Isaiah foretold
the nature of God’s judgment:
"He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes or decide by what he
hears with his ears; but with righteousness, he will judge the needy, with
justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth" (Isaiah
11:3-4).
Thus, when giving an
offering, it is essential to focus on the heart's attitude rather than merely
fulfilling a rule.
Beyond Legalism: Faith and
Love
The New Testament emphasizes
that the law is inadequate for making one righteous. As the writer of Hebrews
explains: "The law made nothing perfect, and a better hope is
introduced, by which we draw near to God" (Hebrews 7:19).
This hope is rooted in faith
and love, which surpass mere obedience to laws. Tithing, when done out of love
for God and with a sincere heart, is pleasing to Him. Conversely, tithing out
of fear, obligation, or as a means to gain blessings reduces it to a legalistic
ritual.
A Call to Genuine Worship
Instead of adhering to
tithing as a rigid law, let us give out of an overflow of love and gratitude
toward God. True worship comes from a heart aligned with His will, not from
legalistic adherence to rules. Let us strive to honor God with our offerings in
a way that reflects the faith and grace we have received through Christ.
Wage-Based Intercession in
the Modern Era!
As everything is becoming
modernized, workers expect their ministry to evolve similarly. While the
approach to ministry can adapt, shouldn't the fundamental principles remain
unchanged? Yet today, many workers focus solely on discovering new strategies to
increase offerings, day and night. To achieve this, they have even dared to
alter the core gospel itself.
The Bible says, "Blessed
is the one who delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on His Law Day and
night" (Psalm 1:2). However, observing the new fundraising strategies
introduced by today's workers, it seems their meditation day and night revolves
around crafting new schemes.
If a ministry requires a
building, vehicle, or computer, they publicize this need in their monthly
newsletters (which itself often serve as another fundraising tactic). They
promise that for every donor, they will open a unique file, lay hands on it
daily, and pray specifically for their blessings.
Beyond this, they encourage
families to send photographs of their children along with the suggested
donation amount. In return, the ministry worker advertises that they will pray
daily for those children. One worker justifies this child-focused program as
follows:
"In families where both
parents work, they often lack time to pray for their children. That’s why we
introduced this program. By joining it, we ensure daily prayers for your
children’s blessings."
In essence, you can pay a
ministry worker to pray on your behalf, freeing you to go anywhere or do
anything. A worker will intercede for you on a wage! Though it sounds amusing,
thousands fall prey to such deceit from Satan.
The Bible describes God as
our loving Father. He desires to cultivate a personal relationship with His
children. He wants us to speak with Him and have a close bond.
This is not to suggest that
asking workers to pray for us is wrong. You can request prayers, but
cultivating your personal relationship with God is far more important. God
desires that above all.
Jesus Christ said, "Rejoice
that your names are written in heaven" (Luke 10:20). But modern
Christians rejoice at having their names recorded in the files of prominent
ministries. A tragic irony indeed!
Do one not need money for
doing Ministry?
Ministers often ask
believers for contributions citing various reasons such as expanding their
ministry, proclaiming the gospel, and purchasing resources necessary for the
ministry. Is it justified for ministers to ask in this manner? Some may think, "If
they can't ask believers, whom else can they approach?" Supporting
ministers financially is not wrong. Even Jesus Christ was supported by some
through their means.
The Bible says in Luke 8:3: "Joanna,
the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, along with many other women,
provided for Him out of their resources."
However, the Bible does not
record Jesus Christ ever asking for money to support His ministry. Similarly,
the Apostle Paul travelled to various regions to establish new churches. Yet,
he never said, "I need funds for my ministry or to proclaim the gospel.
Please give me contributions for establishing churches." Likewise, Peter,
John, and other apostles did not make such requests.
Believers need to understand
this clearly. Ministry is not a personal venture of the minister; it is God's
work. A minister's foremost passion should not be to enhance his ministry but
to glorify God. When ministers act out of greed for money, they stray into
error, and God may abandon them. Even if their ministry appears successful and
attracts large crowds, it may be detestable in God's eyes.
A truly mature minister in
faith does not beg believers for any of his needs. Instead, he presents his
every need to God in prayer and remains patient. God, in His providence, moves
people to meet those needs. This is the miraculous Christian life—a life of
tasting and experiencing the Lord.
Many ministers advertise
with messages like, "If the Lord moves your heart, send your
offerings." Believers often send contributions based on such appeals.
If God genuinely wants a believer to give, He will speak to them directly.
However, many believers, who lack a genuine relationship with God, misinterpret
their emotions as God's prompting and send contributions without reforming
their lives or seeking holiness. Such appeals exploit immature believers,
affecting them psychologically rather than spiritually.
God does not merely prompt
people to give offerings. He is holy and teaches believers to live righteously
and pursue sanctity. For instance, George Müller, a holy servant who supported
hundreds of orphaned children, never asked anyone for money. Yet, God
miraculously provided for every need of his orphanage.
Even today, there are
ministers who live by such faith. They do not seek public attention through TV,
radio, or publications. Instead, they lead quiet, exemplary lives. Just as
fruit on a tree attracts birds, a minister’s true holiness and faithful life draw
people to them without the need for advertisements.
One notable example is
Pastor Johnson David from Kottaram, a village near Kanyakumari (he passed away
recently). He resigned from his job at the Chennai Port Trust in obedience to
God’s call and faced severe poverty during the early days of his ministry.
Once, he couldn’t afford buy soap to wash his clothes. Without sharing his
needs with anyone, he prayed, saying, "The One who called me is
faithful; He knows my needs." Moved to tears, he wiped his eyes with a
towel, and at that moment, a soap bar fell near him. God had miraculously
provided, just as He fed Elijah through ravens. This strengthened Pastor
Johnson David’s faith.
He never asked for money to
build his church. God stirred people’s hearts to provide, and the church was
completed. To this day, his church does not have elaborate sermons about
offerings or collect money during services. A small offering box is kept at the
side, and those willing to give can place their offerings in it.
Pastor Johnson David also
provided meals for those attending his church services and even bus fares for
the poor. His focus was to ensure no one refrains from attending church due to
lack of money. This is divine provision, a testament to God’s guidance.
Ministers like him, however, are rare today.
In contrast, many modern
churches are filled with pomp, luxury, and loud displays. True faith, humility,
and sincerity have diminished significantly. Ministers who preach beautifully
with scriptural backing often trust believers for their financial needs more
than they trust God. They employ various methods through media to raise funds,
bringing disgrace to the testimony of Christianity among people of other
religions.
The Bible says in John
12:26: "If anyone serves Me, My Father will honour him."
However, many ministers do
not believe or live by this truth. Instead, they collect money through personal
appeals and consider themselves honoured by God. This is a tragic
misunderstanding. May this reflection guide us toward true faith and dependence
on God for all our needs.
Jesus Christ on Offerings
Jesus Christ did not speak
extensively about offerings, but He did address the subject in a few key
instances, emphasizing the importance of the giver’s heart and priorities over
the act of giving itself.
Reconciliation Over
Offerings
In the Sermon on the Mount,
Jesus taught that maintaining harmony with others takes precedence over making
offerings to God: "If you are offering your gift at the altar and there
remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift
there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and
offer your gift." (Matthew 5:23-24)
This underscores that
relationships and reconciliation are more important than ritual acts of giving.
Condemnation of Hypocritical
Offerings
Jesus criticized practices
where people neglected moral duties in favour of ritual offerings. During His
time, the Jewish tradition of Corban allowed individuals to dedicate a
portion of their wealth to the temple, which exempted them from using it to
support their aging parents. Jesus condemned this misuse of offerings: "For
Moses said, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and, ‘Anyone who curses their
father or mother is to be put to death.’ But you say that if anyone declares
that what might have been used to help their father or mother is Corban (that
is, devoted to God)—then you no longer let them do anything for their father or
mother. Thus, you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have
handed down. And you do many things like that." (Mark 7:10-13, also in
Matthew 15:4-6)
This shows that Jesus valued
care for family and others above rigid adherence to offering traditions.
Justice, Mercy, and Faith
Over Rituals
Jesus rebuked the Pharisees
for their meticulous tithing while neglecting the weightier matters of the law:
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You
give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the
more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should
have practiced the latter without neglecting the former." (Matthew 23:23)
This illustrates that while
giving is not inherently wrong, it must not overshadow the core virtues of
justice, mercy, and faith.
The Widow’s Offering
Jesus highlighted the
offering of a poor widow who gave two small coins, emphasizing the spirit of
sacrifice over the amount given:
"Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than
all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty,
put in everything—all she had to live on." (Mark 12:43-44)
This shows that God values
the heart and intention behind an offering, not its size or monetary value.
Christ’s Teachings on Love
Jesus’ teachings on
offerings align with His broader commandments of love:
- Love God above all else.
- Love your neighbour as yourself.
Offerings should flow from
love and gratitude, not obligation or expectation of blessings.
The Absence of Offering Laws
in the New Testament
In the New Testament, there
are no rigid rules about tithing or giving offerings as seen in the Old
Testament law. Jesus replaced strict legalism with a call to live by grace,
love, and generosity. This is why we do not find teachings on mandatory tithes
or blessings tied to offerings in the New Testament. However, many churches
today still emphasize Old Testament-style tithing and offerings, often making
it a central aspect of their teaching.
Let us pray that such
churches come to understand the grace and freedom found in Christ, where love
and generosity come from a transformed heart rather than compulsion.
The Purpose of Jesus
Christ’s Coming to the World
The purpose of Jesus
Christ’s coming into the world was not merely to perform miracles or bestow
worldly blessings. He did not need to die on the cross to give worldly
benefits. As He clearly stated, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John
18:36). Though He performed many miracles and wonders during His time on earth,
these were done out of His compassion and to lead people to believe in Him.
"Even if you do not
believe what I say, believe the works I do."
(John 10:38)
Jesus emphasized that human
life does not end with this world. There is an eternal life, and He came to
show the way to attain it.
"This is the promise He
made to us—eternal life." (1 John 2:25)
In the next verse, John
warns against being misled by those who offer false hope of worldly blessings: "I
write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you."
(1 John 2:26)
Thus, even during those
times, there were people who deceived others by promising worldly blessings.
John reminds us that eternal life, not worldly gains, is our ultimate goal.
When Does Eternal Life
Begin?
Eternal life begins when we
know Jesus Christ and the Father who sent Him.
"This is eternal life:
that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have
sent." (John 17:3)
Knowing Jesus is not just
about knowing facts about Him but having a relationship with Him. The
difference between knowing about something and truly knowing it can be
illustrated with the example of a blind person.
A blind person may know
about names of different colours like green, blue, red, and yellow by name, but
they cannot truly perceive or experience the beauty of these colours.
Similarly, many may know about God through Sunday school, Bible reading, or
sermons, but this is not the same as truly knowing Him.
To truly know God, we must
experience His love, mercy, and grace in our lives. It is through living in
accordance with His will and enjoying His fellowship that we can understand who
He truly is. This is why David said:
"Taste and see that the Lord is good." (Psalm 34:8)
Beyond Worldly Desires
Jesus made it clear that His
mission was not rooted in satisfying earthly desires: "My kingdom is
not of this world." (John 18:36)
Though His miracles were
acts of compassion, they were meant to point people to the truth about God and
His kingdom. "If you don’t believe my words, at least believe because
of the works I do." (John 10:38)
Paul also warned about
focusing solely on earthly blessings: "If only for this life we have
hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied." (1
Corinthians 15:19)
The goal of life is not the
temporary benefits of this world but the eternal life that Jesus offers.
Knowing God Through
Relationship
True knowledge of God comes
through a life transformed by His love and mercy. It is not intellectual
knowledge but experiential. John writes: "Whoever does not love does
not know God, because God is love." (1 John 4:8) Knowing God is about
a personal relationship with Him. It’s about experiencing His goodness and
drawing closer to Him. This is why David proclaimed: "Taste and see
that the Lord is good." (Psalm 34:8)
The Spiritual Redemption of
Jesus Christ
The ultimate purpose of
Jesus Christ’s coming was to offer spiritual redemption:
- To cleanse humanity from sin.
- To reveal the kingdom of God.
- To guide us toward eternal life.
His death and resurrection
opened the way for mankind to be freed from the bondage of sin and restored to
a relationship with God. The miracles He performed were not the central purpose
of His coming but tools to demonstrate His authority and compassion, leading
people to faith in Him.
Jesus Christ’s mission was
not confined to worldly blessings or temporary miracles but to offer the
eternal and spiritual life that only He can provide.
Today’s Believers
Many of today’s believers
place more faith in their church leaders and popular preachers than in Jesus
Christ Himself. Such individuals have lost their spiritual identity. Instead of
deepening their relationship with God through prayer, Bible reading, and a holy
life, they chase after preachers, seeking miracles and wonders. For them, the
size of the crowd determines the preacher's spiritual power.
While seeking guidance from
God’s servants is not wrong, a personal relationship with God the Father is
essential. Instead of using preachers for temporary gains, believers must focus
on nurturing their spiritual connection with God.
Misplaced Priorities
Most believers are unwilling
to undergo genuine transformation. They often view Christ not as the Savior of
their souls but as someone who fulfils their worldly needs. For them, Jesus is:
- A "marriage broker" finding
matches for their children.
- A "financial manager" doubling
their offerings.
- A "magician" performing tricks
to solve their problems.
This attitude is reflected
in testimonies shared during church services and conventions, which
predominantly revolve around material blessings rather than spiritual
redemption.
There is little interest in
the forgiveness of sins, soul salvation, or the eternal life promised by
Christ. Why is "Jesus is enough for me" not the cry of every
believer?
Seek First the Kingdom of
God
Many believers cherry-pick
verses from the Bible to claim promises of prosperity. However, they neglect
Jesus’ fundamental teaching:
"Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things
will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)
If believers genuinely trust
this promise, why don’t they prioritize God’s kingdom above all else?
Call for True Repentance
The believing community must
humble itself in prayer. They need to seek assurance of forgiveness, cultivate
unity with God, and strive for a holy life. The same God who spoke to Abraham,
Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and Joshua is alive today. He desires to lead and guide us
personally.
If believers pray earnestly
and seek God with genuine spiritual thirst, He will provide shepherds after His
own heart, as promised:
"I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will lead you with
knowledge and understanding." (Jeremiah 3:15)
A Higher Calling
Rather than chasing after
earthly blessings, let us seek spiritual shepherds who will guide us on the
path to eternal life. A true believer’s focus must be on building a
relationship with God, living a holy life, and walking the straight path to
everlasting joy. Let us trust in the Lord to direct our steps and give us
leaders who nurture our souls in truth and love.
"Let us set our hearts
on heavenly things and walk in faith, focusing on eternal rewards rather than
fleeting earthly gains."
True Blessing – The Grace of
God!
The grace of God can be
described as His unmerited love and kindness towards unworthy people. In the
face of God’s holiness and might, we are nothing. Yet, He values us and extends
His love to us despite our unworthiness. This is God’s grace!
All blessings, whether
material or spiritual, come to us solely through God’s pure grace.
Many people often claim, “I
prayed, read the Bible, fasted, and attended prayer meetings—this is why I
received these blessings.” However, this mindset is incorrect. Instead, the
truth is that God’s grace alone has brought these blessings into our lives. As
Jesus said,
"A person can receive only what is given them from heaven."
(John 3:27)
Indeed, God’s grace cannot
be bought, nor can any offering match its value.
Seek God’s Grace
God’s grace is the ultimate
blessing. Let us humbly seek it with all our hearts. Apostle Paul’s exhortation
to Timothy is a fitting conclusion to this reflection:
"These disputes arise
from people who think godliness is a means to financial gain. But godliness
with contentment is great gain. For the love of money is the root of all kinds
of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced
themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this and pursue
righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. Fight the
good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were
called." (1 Timothy 6:5-12)
Let us recognize God’s grace
as the foundation of all true blessings and embrace it as the key to living a
fulfilled and godly life. May we continually seek His grace, which leads us to
eternal life.
THE END
