TENET 11

Finances

Christians have a holy trusteeship to the gospel and a binding stewardship in their possessions. They are therefore under obligation to serve Christ with their time, talents, and material possessions.

According to the Scriptures, Christians should contribute their means cheerfully, regularly, systematically, proportionately, and liberally for the advancement of Christ’s cause on earth.

We believe the Old Testament clearly taught tithing, which is 10% of our gross incomes (first fruits) which was given to the local Temple or Synagogue. (Malachi 3:10). In the New Testament (Matthew 23:23)), Jesus did not condemn tithing to the Scribes and Pharisees, He emphasized it as just one part of obedience. Jesus spoke often about money because it revealed our hearts.

After the founding of the church, there is no mention of tithing, but it still focuses on giving. We still accept many parts of the law because they are a guide to our behavior and reveal our sin. In the same way, we believe that the tithe is a guide on where to start our giving today. In addition, the Holy Spirit may prompt believers to give additional amounts over and above the tithe. These amounts are called offerings.

Genesis 14:20; Leviticus 27:30-32; Deuteronomy 8:18; Nehemiah 10:37-38; Malachi 3:8-12; Romans 6:6-22; 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 4:1-2; 6:19-20; 12; 16:1-4; 2 Corinthians 8-9; 12:15; Philippians 4:10-19; 1 Peter 1:18-19 Matthew 6:1-4,19-21; 19:21; 23:23; 25:14-29; Luke 12:16-21,42; 16:1-13; Acts 2:44-47; 5:1-11; 17:24-25; 20:35;

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