Chapter 17: Myth—Giving 10% Is A Tithe

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Myth—Giving 10% Is A Tithe

Do you remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 25:35-46 from the

last chapter? Jesus rejects those who failed to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, take in strangers, clothe the naked, visit and care for the sick, and visit and pray for those in prison. Remember I also told you that God told me that these were also spiritual needs and not just physical needs? When

we fear God, we keep His commandments regardless of what you have been taught. Part of those commandments is to care for people. Thus, the Tithe Law’s two elements and the two groups of people Jesus rejects seem to be similar. Does this mean we need to tithe? The answer comes shortly.

For now, let me take another stab at explaining the conundrum of the issue of the Law that Jesus lays upon our hearts. It is true that Jesus spoke to the scribes and Pharisees when he said “they” should tithe and do all the other aspects, especially “the more weightier issues of the Law.” Therefore,

you could argue that we are not of this group and further that the covenant of Christ’s blood altered the Law equation. What else does the Word teach?

Jesus said: “Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy

[that is, readiness to help those in trouble] and not sacrifice and sacrificial victims.’ For I came not to call and invite [to repentance] the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with God), but sinners (the erring ones and

all those not free from sin.” Matthew 9:13 AMP

God said: “For I desire and delight in dutiful steadfast love and goodness, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of and

acquaintance with God more than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:6 AMP

Both verses illustrate and contrast the issue of being either “in faith”

or “in the Law.” If you are “in the Law,” you are concerned and focused on fulfilling the Law’s instructions about sacrifices. Success is then based on ability to “keep the letter of the Law.” But, in doing so, one can overlook the spirit of the Law and the matter of simple faith and trust in God. If you

understand the distinction made in the above verses, you will gain insight on the laws and commandments of God.