Rules of Tithing – The Jesus Factor

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Wow! It seems this conversation around "tithing" has many of us questioning what this really means, especially in today's tumultuous economy. One of our members, Janice, asked this question in response to my article - Beyond Budget Basics, "So, what are the 'rules' on tithing? Do you have to be part of a church to tithe or is it okay to give a percentage to a charity or a good cause?"

This will take more than one article and it begins with something that may surprise you – or should I say Someone? When we think of the word "tithing," what comes to mind?

Gloria, in our discussion you correctly remind us that the word itself means "a tenth of" and in the Old Testament was also considered a tax or levy on produce and income. Let's be honest, when many of us discuss "tithing" these days, the word that comes to mind is probably "guilt." The feeling that we're just not doing enough.

Enter Jesus, and enter joy. If you've studied His life much, you also know that He took the legalism out of the equation on many levels. Hey, He hung around with prostitutes and other rebels, "worked" on the Sabbath by healing someone (Luke 14:1-6), and gives us a new, expanded litmus test for giving. The Jesus Factor. Joy. Surrender.

This week, let's begin with the Jesus Factor. Janice, do you have to be part of a church to give to God? Absolutely not. In the words of Jesus:

"I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25: 36-40 NIV)

The rules of giving don't begin with a religion or a system or rules, but with a relationship. And, Janice, I don't see Jesus saying you have to be a part of any certain denomination to be fed, clothed, or helped in any way. Rule one – the Jesus Factor. When you give to someone in need, it's like you are giving directly to Him.

Thoughts? Posts? I can't wait to hear. Next week, I'll continue this series with The Joy Factor. Your homework – read 2 Corinthians 9:7. Time to dust off the ole' Bible – we're just beginning...

Order The Jesus Factor: 8 "Rules" of Tithing in Joy on CD or MP3 download (best deal!) on Amazon.com.