Tithing: A Spiritual Practice of Gratitude and Stewardship
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound and often misunderstood topic of tithing. Tithing, as prescribed in Scripture, is not merely a financial obligation but a spiritual practice that reflects our gratitude and stewardship of God's blessings. We delved into the biblical foundation of tithing, tracing its origins back to Abraham and Jacob, who practiced tithing long before the Mosaic Law was established. This historical context underscores that tithing is not merely a legalistic requirement but a timeless principle of faith and gratitude.
We examined the distinction between tithing and other forms of giving, emphasizing that tithing specifically refers to giving ten percent of our income. This act of giving is a recognition that everything we have is a gift from God, and it is our responsibility to manage these blessings wisely. Tithing is an expression of our trust in God's provision and our commitment to His work.
Furthermore, we discussed the teachings of Jesus on tithing, highlighting that while Jesus did not abolish the practice, He emphasized the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness alongside it. Tithing should not be an isolated act but part of a holistic life of obedience and righteousness. Jesus' teachings remind us that our giving should be accompanied by a life that reflects God's love and justice.
We also reflected on the dangers of self-righteousness and the importance of humility in our spiritual journey. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector serves as a cautionary tale against pride and self-reliance. True righteousness comes from a humble heart that acknowledges its dependence on God's grace.
In conclusion, tithing is a spiritual discipline that aligns our hearts with God's purposes. It is an opportunity to participate in His work and to experience His blessings in our lives. As we continue to explore this series, may we seek to understand and practice tithing in a way that honors God and blesses others.
Key Takeaways:
1. Tithing as Gratitude and Stewardship: Tithing is not just a financial obligation but a spiritual practice that reflects our gratitude for God's blessings and our role as stewards of His gifts. It is a recognition that everything we have is from God, and we are called to manage these blessings wisely. [50:01]
2. Historical Context of Tithing: Tithing predates the Mosaic Law, as seen in the practices of Abraham and Jacob. This historical context highlights that tithing is a timeless principle rooted in faith and gratitude, not merely a legalistic requirement. [59:20]
3. Jesus' Teachings on Tithing: Jesus emphasized that tithing should be accompanied by justice, mercy, and faithfulness. It is not an isolated act but part of a holistic life of obedience and righteousness. Our giving should reflect God's love and justice. [01:15:07]
4. Humility and Righteousness: The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector warns against self-righteousness and pride. True righteousness comes from a humble heart that acknowledges its dependence on God's grace, not from self-reliance or comparison with others. [01:24:02]
5. Tithing as a Spiritual Discipline: Tithing aligns our hearts with God's purposes and allows us to participate in His work. It is an opportunity to experience His blessings and to be a blessing to others, fostering a life of generosity and faithfulness. [01:31:52]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[29:21] - Introduction of Dr. Gobi
[43:55] - Prayer for Community Leadership
[50:01] - Understanding Tithing
[53:09] - The Role of Stewardship
[58:23] - Biblical Origins of Tithing
[01:02:51] - Abraham's Example of Tithing
[01:08:25] - Jacob's Commitment to Tithing
[01:11:39] - Tithing Before the Law
[01:12:42] - Jesus' Perspective on Tithing
[01:15:07] - Justice, Mercy, and Faithfulness
[01:17:05] - The Importance of Obedience
[01:24:02] - Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector
[01:31:52] - Call to Action and Prayer
[01:42:13] - Announcements and Closing Remarks
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Understanding Tithing
Bible Reading:
1. Genesis 14:19-20
2. Matthew 23:23
3. Luke 18:9-14
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Observation Questions:
1. According to Genesis 14:19-20, what was Abraham's response after his victory, and how does this relate to the concept of tithing? [01:02:51]
2. In Matthew 23:23, what does Jesus criticize the Pharisees for neglecting, and how does this relate to their practice of tithing? [01:15:07]
3. In the parable from Luke 18:9-14, what was the attitude of the Pharisee compared to the tax collector, and how does this reflect on their understanding of righteousness? [01:24:02]
4. How does the sermon describe the historical context of tithing before the Mosaic Law, and what examples are given? [59:20]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the historical practice of tithing by Abraham and Jacob before the Mosaic Law influence our understanding of tithing as a timeless principle? [59:20]
2. What does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 23:23 suggest about the relationship between tithing and other aspects of a faithful life, such as justice and mercy? [01:15:07]
3. How does the parable in Luke 18:9-14 illustrate the dangers of self-righteousness, and what lesson can be drawn about humility in our spiritual practices? [01:24:02]
4. In what ways does the sermon suggest that tithing is an expression of gratitude and stewardship, and how does this align with the biblical examples provided? [50:01]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current understanding of tithing. How does the historical context of tithing before the Mosaic Law challenge or affirm your views? [59:20]
2. Jesus emphasized justice, mercy, and faithfulness alongside tithing. How can you ensure that your giving is part of a holistic life of obedience and righteousness? [01:15:07]
3. Consider the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. In what ways might pride or self-righteousness be affecting your spiritual journey, and how can you cultivate humility? [01:24:02]
4. The sermon highlights tithing as a spiritual discipline that aligns our hearts with God's purposes. What steps can you take to make tithing a more intentional part of your spiritual practice? [01:31:52]
5. How can you apply the principle of stewardship in managing the resources God has entrusted to you, and what changes might you need to make in your financial habits? [50:01]
6. Reflect on a time when you felt God's provision in your life. How can this experience encourage you to trust Him more fully in your giving and other areas of life? [53:09]
7. The sermon warns against using tithing as a means of self-justification. How can you ensure that your giving is motivated by gratitude and a desire to honor God, rather than seeking approval or recognition? [01:25:08]
Devotional
Day 1: Tithing as an Act of Gratitude and Stewardship
Tithing is more than a financial transaction; it is a spiritual discipline that reflects our gratitude for the blessings God has bestowed upon us. By giving ten percent of our income, we acknowledge that everything we have is a gift from God and that we are merely stewards of His resources. This practice invites us to manage these blessings wisely and to trust in God's provision. Tithing is a tangible expression of our faith and commitment to God's work, reminding us that our resources are not our own but are entrusted to us for His purposes. [50:01]
"Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine." (Proverbs 3:9-10, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you express gratitude for God's blessings through your financial decisions today?
Day 2: The Timeless Principle of Tithing
Tithing is not a concept confined to the Mosaic Law; it is a timeless principle rooted in faith and gratitude. The practice of tithing can be traced back to the patriarchs Abraham and Jacob, who tithed long before the law was given. This historical context highlights that tithing is not merely a legalistic requirement but a practice that transcends time, inviting believers to participate in a tradition of faithfulness and thanksgiving. By understanding the origins of tithing, we can appreciate its significance as a spiritual discipline that connects us to the faith of our ancestors. [59:20]
"And blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand! And Abram gave him a tenth of everything." (Genesis 14:20, ESV)
Reflection: How does understanding the historical context of tithing influence your perspective on giving today?
Day 3: Tithing and the Teachings of Jesus
Jesus' teachings on tithing emphasize that it should not be an isolated act but part of a holistic life of obedience and righteousness. While Jesus did not abolish the practice of tithing, He highlighted the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness alongside it. Our giving should reflect God's love and justice, reminding us that tithing is not just about fulfilling a duty but about living a life that embodies the values of the Kingdom. By aligning our giving with these principles, we can ensure that our tithing is a true reflection of our faith. [01:15:07]
"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others." (Matthew 23:23, ESV)
Reflection: How can you ensure that your practice of tithing is accompanied by acts of justice, mercy, and faithfulness today?
Day 4: Humility and True Righteousness
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of self-righteousness and pride. True righteousness comes from a humble heart that acknowledges its dependence on God's grace, rather than relying on self-reliance or comparison with others. This humility is essential in our spiritual journey, as it allows us to recognize our need for God's mercy and to approach Him with a contrite spirit. By cultivating humility, we can avoid the pitfalls of pride and embrace a life of genuine righteousness. [01:24:02]
"For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted." (Luke 18:14, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you struggle with pride, and how can you cultivate humility today?
Day 5: Tithing as a Spiritual Discipline
Tithing is a spiritual discipline that aligns our hearts with God's purposes and allows us to participate in His work. It is an opportunity to experience His blessings and to be a blessing to others, fostering a life of generosity and faithfulness. By committing to the practice of tithing, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's grace and invite His presence into our financial decisions. This discipline encourages us to live with open hands and hearts, ready to serve and bless those around us. [01:31:52]
"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7, ESV)
Reflection: How can you cultivate a spirit of generosity and faithfulness in your financial practices today?
Quotes
things scripture says that what do you have that was not giving to you what do you have that was not given to you name one thing that you have that was not given to you when you have won you have won naked you came empty into this world you came to meet whatever that you have right now brod may them available we all came to meet whatever we see and he didn't carry we entered this world leaving everything here as well if you have a house can't go with the house if you have a your bank account no matter what it is you can't go with it even they're going to put some some of your valuables in you know that the box they're going to put you it can't contain all your belong or whatever you call your belongings or properties praise the lord and so we've got to understand that we all you know god a great deal of gratitude and appreciation for our life for the life of our families and for the life of anybody that god has brought our way it is not by accident that i know you and you know me it is by god's divine plan appointment so that we can sharpen each other it is god's orchestration amen and so that is why we are doing this series and i want us to really understand [00:53:09] (84 seconds)
So, I've established the fact that tithing is a thing of whatever it is, and statistics show that, you know, majority of professing Christians, you know, don't tithe, either because they don't understand or whatever reason, they don't. And no wonder it's affecting their finances, it's affecting their business, it's affecting their job, because it is he who gives you power to make wealth. Amen. It is God that gives you power to make wealth. [00:59:20] (39 seconds)
Praise the Lord. Before Moses. because some people argue that oh you know the laws are gone and we are now in the new testament and blah blah blah but titan was done through abraham before moses ever existed jacob also died before abraham before moses ever came into being and received the laws and then i became part of the law of the in the old testament so that's what it is so i want us to uh understand that if you read uh genesis chapter 14 verse 19 and 20. [01:00:14] (43 seconds)
he just and he blessed him amen he blessed him that's the first time this is the first time recorded in scripture and he blessed him and said abraham by god most high profess processor of heaven and earth and blessed be god most high who has delivered your enemies into your hand and abraham gave a pen of everything this was a situation where abraham had gone to fight the enemies were coming or who were who are you know taking captive his nephew laws and possessions and abraham was called upon and abraham went there to fight and everything scandam you know there is why Abraham was very prosperous to the point that he had his own army was that he was someone who was obedient to God at any time and he was a giver praise the Lord was obedient to God and was a giver and so after he had finished the fight remember mind you up to that this point there was no mention of time in the world title was not God had not sent time to me Abraham but Abraham after winning the battle and he met a high priest called Melchizedek [01:01:06] (105 seconds)
and Melchizedek blessed him and then brought his mind to the fact that this victory you have won it was God that gave you that victory God gave you the victory it is not your own these things that you have been able to acquire it is God that made you have them and Abraham at the time he was called Abraham and Abraham you know understood it and right away he said I'm giving you a tenth to the high priest Melchizedek so that's where tithing started so you take your time you read it you understand and why did Abraham do it he did it because he did it in gratitude of God's authority and blessing in gratitude of God's authority and blessing because we know in in the scripture even in the life of the Israelites that many times the Israelites there were times that when God is with them they go and they win battles but there were times God remove himself they go and they lose so for you to win the battles of life you need God on your side if God be for us who can be against us so we need God to be for us I need God to be for me [01:02:51] (86 seconds)
The people of Israel, you know, had understood tithing, but they were ignoring a lot of things. Because one thing you've got to understand is that tithing is not in isolation. It is not something you do on its own, and then you expect, you know, all of a sudden, God to open the floodgates and start showering you with blessings. But you first of all have to be... You have to be someone who has given your life to him. [01:12:42] (32 seconds)
And so Jesus sought to make those points, through some verses of scripture that we are going to look at right now. He has sought to make those points. Throughout Jesus' teaching, On giving, he doesn't seek to undermine the principle of the tithes, but encourage people to practice their giving in meaningful ways. [01:13:47] (27 seconds)
So if I am tithing, and yet, I am living my life anyhow, mind you, I'll be blocking my own chances of blessings. That will not be God. Because some people will say, oh, I've been tithing, nothing is happening. Have you checked your life? How are you living your life? Is your life pleasing the Lord? Because you gave with one, your right, and you have used your left hand to feed it away. Through your lifestyle. May God help us. [01:14:47] (37 seconds)
Jesus said, Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe meat and kill and human, and have neglected the brilliant matters of the law, which is justice and mercy and faithfulness. This you ought to have done without neglecting the others. So you see the last line. Jesus said that this you ought to have done. Which means you ought to tithe without neglecting justice. Without neglecting faithfulness. [01:15:07] (42 seconds)
Sometimes we think that we are better than other people. Somebody is a robber. And so, because I have not stole it before, I see myself better than them. That's what this guy is doing. It's just a grace. Amen. It's the grace of God that makes us who we are. [01:26:21] (24 seconds)
So if somebody is in trouble, we should rather help them. Two people have come to church to pray. And instead of focusing on God and talking to God for himself, he was focusing on the next church member. Who is there, he is focused on God. Asking God to forgive his sins. [01:26:55] (22 seconds)
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