Understanding Tithes & Offerings (Part1)

Summary

In this video, Pastor Paul discusses the concept of tithing and offerings, addressing common questions and misconceptions. He emphasizes that tithing is not a requirement of obligation but a joyful act of honoring God, even before the law was established. Using scripture, particularly from Genesis, he explains the principle of seed time and harvest as a law of creation, illustrating that sowing into God's work guarantees future blessings. Pastor Paul also explains the connection between grace and giving, stating that under grace, believers are empowered to give more rather than less. The message focuses on generosity as a heart response to God's blessings.

Takeaways

• 😀 Tithing and offering should not be done out of obligation, duty, fear, or compulsion, but out of joy and gratitude.
• 😀 God wants us to participate in His work, but without the attitude of being forced or manipulated to give.
• 😀 The Bible does not require tithing as a law but emphasizes giving from a place of joy, empowered by grace.
• 😀 The concept of seed time and harvest is a law of creation that transcends both Old and New Covenants.
• 😀 Tithing is not just an Old Testament practice; it existed before the law, demonstrated by Abraham's giving of a tithe to Melchizedek.
• 😀 Grace empowers believers to give more, not less, as it inspires a deeper desire to serve and contribute.
• 😀 The New Covenant, based on better promises, exceeds the Old Covenant in every way, including the area of giving.
• 😀 Understanding the law of seed time and harvest guarantees a future of good returns when we sow into God's work.
• 😀 Just as natural laws like day and night, cold and heat exist regardless of belief, so do spiritual laws like sowing and reaping.
• 😀 Tithing should be a reflection of our honor and appreciation toward God, not merely a requirement under the law.
• 😀 The story of Abraham in Genesis 14 shows that tithing was practiced before the law was given and was a sign of honoring God.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The main topic of the video is tithing and offering, with a focus on what the Bible says about giving, particularly the concept of tithing before and after the law.

What is the biblical definition of tithing?

Tithing refers to giving 10% of one's income or earnings, often to the church or in support of God's work. The word 'tithe' literally means 'a tenth.'

Why does Pastor Paul emphasize joy in giving?

Pastor Paul emphasizes joy in giving because he wants people to give willingly, not out of obligation, fear, or compulsion. He believes that giving should come from a place of joy and understanding, not pressure.

What is the connection between tithing and grace, according to Pastor Paul?

Pastor Paul explains that grace does not exempt people from giving; instead, it empowers them to give more willingly and abundantly. Grace should motivate believers to serve, give, and work more, not less.

What does Pastor Paul say about the law and grace regarding tithing?

Pastor Paul points out that tithing existed before the law was introduced. He also emphasizes that grace is not about avoiding obligations but about being empowered to give more, which is better than what the law required.

How does Pastor Paul relate the law of seed time and harvest to giving?

Pastor Paul explains that seed time and harvest is a fundamental principle of creation, meaning whatever you sow, you will reap. He applies this to giving by saying that when you give, it guarantees future blessings and harvest in your life.

What does Genesis 8:22 say about seed time and harvest?

Genesis 8:22 says, 'While the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.' This establishes the law of creation that sowing and reaping are constants in the natural world.

What is the story of Abraham's tithe to Melchizedek in Genesis 14?

In Genesis 14, after Abraham's victory over several kings, he encounters Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. Melchizedek blesses Abraham, and in gratitude, Abraham gives him a tenth (a tithe) of all his possessions, even before the law was established.

How does Pastor Paul distinguish between the law of Moses and the principle of tithing?

Pastor Paul distinguishes that the law of Moses, which was given later, includes regulations about tithing. However, the principle of tithing, or giving a tenth, existed before the law with Abraham, showing that honoring God with giving is a timeless principle, not merely a legal requirement.

What does Pastor Paul mean when he says that laws like 'Thou shalt not kill' are not bad?

Pastor Paul argues that laws, such as 'Thou shalt not kill,' are not bad because they provide boundaries and protect society. He believes that laws are meant to guide people to live in a way that honors God and ensures peace and safety.