Faith without religion.
Divine Communication: From Prophets to Christ
In a recent teaching, we delved into the topic of tithing and its relevance for Christians today, drawing insights from Hebrews 7 and the story of Melchizedek. The discussion began with a reflection on the nature of communion, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships with the Lord over ritualistic practices. This set the stage for a deeper exploration of biblical tithing, particularly the account of Abraham giving a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek.
The teaching highlighted that tithing, as practiced by Abraham, occurred long before the Law was given to Moses, suggesting that it was not a legalistic requirement but rather a voluntary act of gratitude. This distinction is crucial, as it challenges the notion that Christians are obligated to adhere to a fixed percentage of giving. Instead, the New Testament encourages believers to give freely and cheerfully, as led by the Spirit, without compulsion or guilt.
The teaching also addressed common misconceptions about tithing, such as the idea that it is a prerequisite for receiving God’s blessings. Instead, it emphasized that blessings come through faith in Jesus Christ, not through financial transactions. The story of the widow’s mite was examined to illustrate how religious leaders of the time exploited the vulnerable, rather than serving as a model for sacrificial giving.
Ultimately, the message underscored the freedom believers have in Christ, including the freedom to give according to one’s means and heart. This approach to giving aligns with the spirit of the New Testament, where generosity is an expression of worship and love, not a legalistic obligation.