#Tithing

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

"God can do anything except make his own money. That's why he needs your money."

Why do you trust your god to provide when his own corporation doesn't?

[crisisdotorg]

I will never get over growing up poor in a religious mormon household where my parents still gave 10% of their income to the church (tithing) despite maxing out dozens of credit cards every month to feed the 10 children the church encouraged them to have.

[amagnificentobsession]

@shutanictemple

It’s been quite awhile since my last tithing @loretta-dont-you-oppress-me I decided these kids needed a good home. Terrorizing a Tractor Supply store may be fun but they need some wide open spaces ♥️

All hail 😊

[equabraz]

What Does the Bible Say About Tithing

Many churches encourage tithing as a way to support their community and mission. Tithing is often seen as giving ten percent of your income to the church, which helps fund various programs and outreach initiatives. Some people see tithing as a spiritual practice that builds faith and trust. Regular tithing can help churches maintain their facilities, staff, and services they provide throughout the year. Understanding the purpose and impact of tithing can enhance your giving experience.

“You must without fail give a tenth of everything your seed produces in the field year by year.” - Duet. 14:22.

Tithing was a command given to the ancient Israelites by Jehovah God. This command was part of the Mosaic Law, a set of rules given to Israel.

Tithing was seen as a moral duty for the Israelites and their faith. The people were encouraged to openly declare their completed tithes to Jehovah God, seeking blessings. Every Israelite was expected to give a portion of their harvest to God or was viewed withholding the tithe as stealing from Jehovah God and the nation suffered when they withheld the tithe. This practice of tithing reminded them of their responsibilities and their relationship with God. They believed that by tithing, they were honoring God and inviting His favor. (Deuteronomy 26:12-15 ; Malachi 3:8, 9).

God promised the nation that if they brought in the tithe, he would “pour out” onto us“blessing until there is nothing lacking.” - Malachi 3:10.

During Jesus' life, people were required to give a portion of their income. After Jesus died, the need for tithing was no longer seen as mandatory. Jesus’ death changed everything, through His sacrifice, Jesus abolished the requirements of the Mosaic Law, including tithes.

The commandment to collect tithes is no longer required for believers today. Jesus’ sacrifice fulfilled the law, granting freedom from all the old rules, including tithes. His death replaced the need for offerings, emphasizing love and faith instead now.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because you give the tenth of the mint and the dill and the cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely, justice and mercy and faithfulness. These things it was necessary to do, yet not to disregard the other things. - Matthew 23:23.

Unfortunately, many churches today misunderstand Jesus’ teachings about the end of Mosaic Law. This misunderstanding leads them to continue demanding tithes, causing financial strain for members. Many organizations fail to see that Jesus fulfilled the law, bringing freedom. As a result, people are pressured to give money continuing these practices often overshadow the true message of love and grace in Christianity. Jesus condemned the religious leaders who scrupulously paid tithes but “disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely, justice and mercy and faithfulness.”

Some churches especially celebrities churches created manipulate their members, making them feel guilty about not tithing enough. If you feel pressured to give money, it might be a scam. Look for joy in giving rather than fear-based motivation. Being told that tithing guarantees blessings is often a tactic to control. Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong about tithing demands, investigate further.

Pastors shouldn’t make you feel anxious about your contributions to the church. Always remember, genuine faith should never come with pressure to give money. Each Christian should give money based on their own personal choice and feelings. Giving should come from a place of joy, not obligation or sadness. God appreciates those who give cheerfully and willingly rather than feeling forced. When giving, Christians must focus on their heart’s intention and remain joyful. “Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” - 2 Corinthians 9:7.

Many followers leave because they see the hypocrisy in the teachings of religion. When religious leaders act in ways that contradict their teachings, trust is lost. People feel frustrated when they notice double standards in their religious community. The gap between what is taught and what is practiced leads to disillusionment. Honest seekers often choose to leave when they witness conflicting behaviors in faith.

Leaders cannot pray on your behalf; you must seek God yourself. No matter how many promises leaders make, only you can strengthen your faith. “Moreover, without faith it is impossible to please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” - Hebrews 11:6.

Many organizations do not clarify how they will use funds collected from donations. Recently, there has been an increase in fake organizations claiming to help victims, often backed by celebrities or secret societies who do not disclose their connections. Donors should always ask questions about where their money is going before giving. It is essential for people to be cautious, as some founders may hide under different names, misleading well-meaning supporters about their true intentions. Transparency in fund usage can help rebuild trust in organizations and prevent scams. “you should look into the matter, making a thorough investigation and inquiry.” - Deuteronomy 13:14.

Many religious organizations have leaders living lavish lifestyles, but their followers often live in poverty and struggle to make ends meet daily. This stark contrast highlights a troubling disconnect between church leaders and their organizations. Jesus taught us “You received free, give free” - Matthew 10:8.

“By means of his flesh he abolished the enmity, the Law of commandments consisting in decrees, in order to make the two groups in union with himself into one new man+ and to make peace” - Ephesians 2:13-15.

“God made you alive together with him. He kindly forgave us all our trespasses and erased the handwritten document that consisted of decrees and was in opposition to us. He has taken it out of the way by nailing it to the torture stake.” - Colossians 2:13,14.

We no longer give a tithe because Jesus’ sacrifice has fulfilled the law. It is essential for everyone to examine where their contributions are directed, ensuring they support good causes rather than enabling harmful activities. Investigating the use of our funds can lead us to better choices. No leader can inherently draw us closer to God; this is a personal journey we must undertake ourselves through faith and reflection. Our relationship with God relies on individual effort, not solely on church authority or leadership.

The pastor or organization can't bless you; only your relationship with Jehovah God can do that. Your faith in Jehovah God and Jesus is what truly brings you blessings. A strong connection with Both of them will lead to blessings and peace in life.

Jesus taught that having a true connection with God leads to true blessings. A personal relationship with Jehovah God is what brings real joy and fulfillment in life. Understanding God's love helps us appreciate our own worth and purpose in life.Jesus emphasized that it is our heart and devotion to God that matter most, not empty rituals. Building a strong bond with Jehovah God enriches our lives with peace and happiness.

“‘You will seek me and find me, for you will search for me with all your heart. And I will let you find me,’ declares Jehovah.” - Jeremiah 29: 13,14.

You can visit www.jw.org to learn about different beliefs and teachings. The website offers many helpful resources, including articles, videos, and Bible studies for everyone interested in exploring spiritual topics and understanding different perspectives. People often find encouragement and hope when visiting www.jw.org for spiritual guidance.

At this site, users can easily access information about faith, family life, and community events that promote love and understanding among diverse groups.

Many visitors appreciate the free materials available at www.jw.org for personal study and growth.

[fallenandproud]

hi besties so i just got my 3rd paycheck and my mom is getting on my ass about setting up some sort of online thing connected to my bank account thatll take my money and pay it straight to tithing and i dont know how to weasel out of this one folkz. the mere idea of having to pay tithing makes me feel so very sick and i feel trapped and helpless and idk how to get out of it. im sick of being cornered into things i want nothing to do with. does anyone have any advice for either weaseling out or handling a confrontation with my parents?

[shiningthelightministries]

Bible Study - The False Doctrine Of Sacrificial Giving Exposed!

[wombatwisdom]

Let's talk some more about Judith Butler's book "Who's Afraid of Gender". One group Judith mentions is the World Congress of Families, a Christian-based group that they assert has been successful in influencing global anti-LGBTQ+ laws around the world (the recent uptick in particularly aggressive laws in Russia, Eastern Europe and Africa have been lobbied and funded for in part by the World Congress of Families). The Souther Poverty Law Center has designated the WCF as a hate group.

While reading about this group, I got a bit nervous. Does the Church of Jesus Christ associate with the WCF. A quick Google made me very worried. The Church News website cites at least two different occurances of sponsoring the annual WCF conference, once in 1999 and again in 2015. Another conference, for the International Congress of Families (finding any direct information about the WCF is difficult as they frequently rebrand, abandon websites, or just don't make an effort to make themselves generally accessable) was sponsored by the church in 2024.

According to a 2015 Report by the Human Rights Campaign, the church is a sponsor of the WCF as well as President Oaks being a board member.

So, who cares? Of course, the Church would rally behind a Christian-based group fighting to protect the family from the phantasm of gender. The institutional church has never been quiet on their views on family and LGBTQ+ issues. And in truth, decisions made by the institutional church are so far out of my control it seems pointless and tiresome to bring them up.

But!

What made me stop short was the discussion of funding and sponsoring and lobbying. Due to a frustrating lack of transparency it is nearly impossible to know how much tithing money has gone to the WCF through church sponsorship. Neither the Church nor the WCF seem to want to make this information available. But the fact remains, that money has exchanged hands and that probably means tithing funds were used (I suppose to be generous these donations and sponsorships could be happening using investment profits, which might be slightly better? But even still there is no evidence in either direction on that.)

But this makes me uncomfortable. I don't know how tithing gets spent, some have speculated, but I have no way of knowing if my tithing money is going to causes that I find ethical, moral, or timely. The church asks for a significant amount of money and claims they are only responsible to God on how they spend it. But I could use the money to support causes more pressing and certainly ensure that my dollars do not go to a group like the WCF!

I've seen in other Mormon spaces, the idea of being thoughtful in your tithing. Giving your ten percent to local causes in your area or to pressing causes around the world. To me, this still feels holy, still feels like consecrating your funds to the Lord, still would qualify in my mind as a full tithe. And it makes me feel better knowing what causes and groups are using my donations for causes I know I can support! I know that this approach takes more effort, especially in research (not all charities are what they seem), but it makes me feel like a more responsible for what I'm giving and I like to believe God supports that too.

[bylagunabay]

Works of Mercy

AT THE END OF OUR LIFE, WE SHALL ALL BE JUDGED BY …

1 St. John of the Cross: “At the end of our life, we shall all be judged by charity.”

2 Saint Vincent de Paul: “Extend your mercy towards others, so that there can be no one in need whom you meet without helping. For what hope is there for us if God should withdraw His Mercy from us?”

3 St. Robert Bellarmine: “The school of Christ is the school of charity.  On the last day, when the general examination takes place … charity will be the whole syllabus.”

4 St. Peter Chrysologus: “if you want your petition to be heard, hear the petition of others. If you do not close your ear to others, you open God’s ear to yourself.”

5 St. John Chrysostom: “Let us not hesitate to help those who have died and to offer our prayers for them.”

6 Saint Augustine: “God has no need of your money, but the poor have. You give it to the poor, and God receives it.”

7 St. Mary MacKillop: “People should never see a need and do nothing to help.”

8 St. Katharine Drexel: “If we wish to serve God and love our neighbor well, we must manifest our joy in the service we render to Him and them. Let us open wide our hearts. It is joy which invites us. Press forward and fear nothing.”

9 St. Philip Neri: “Do not let a day pass without doing some good in it.”

10 St. Thérèse of Lisieux: “A word or smile is often enough to put fresh life in a despondent soul.”

11 St. Francis de Sales: “Never miss an opportunity to do good.”

12 Saint Gregory the Great: “The proof of love is in the works. Where love exists, it works great things. But when it ceases to act, it ceases to exist.”

13 St. Ignatius of Loyola: “Love ought to show itself in deeds more than words.”

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

"Every Sunday across this country, buildings are filled with people who believe a talking snake once tricked a naked woman into eating a piece of fruit and then voluntarily put all of their money into a plate. And for some reason we accept this as normal."

[ausetkmt]

Danger, Do NOT Tithe- Is it Wrong to Tithe?

Just give him a moment and understand that HE IS SPEAKING TRUTH, to Devils, who collect their shekels in the name of their false prophets. Stop paying for rolls royces if you are riging in a honda.

[therichantsim]

Me whenever someone pays me with cash.

[1cupid7]

irony

families can be together forever

FOR AN ALL NEW LOW PRICE AT 10% OF YOUR INCOME AND ALL OF YOUR FAMILY SHARE THE SAME THOUGHTS AND IDEA ON THE WORLD

[delightintheway]

*NEW Video!* OFFERINGS - "Love strengthens the spirit and washing another’s feet is good for the soul..."

- Excerpt: "How is it that many of you must be prompted to do a good deed? Has goodness now become a burden to you? Or is the one in the mirror your only concern? Do not be fooled, but remember: It is who you choose that defines what you do.[2] And faith without works is dead, even as works done without faith are dead also. And one who bears their own burdens must also bear the heat of the day. Yet one who lets go, cutting every cord that binds them to this world, walks free, and shall be given eagle’s wings. For idle hands lack bread, and an idle heart lacks trust; their backs are bent down always, their countenances fallen, their eyelids have grown very heavy. Yet love strengthens the spirit and washing another’s feet is good for the soul, renewing the whole of the body." Says The Lord

(*Please click the video above to see the WHOLE Letter) Source: https://www.thevolumesoftruth.com/Offerings

[the-cleaver-of-truth]

I Will Rebuke the Devourer for Your Sake

When we think of divine blessings, we often picture overflowing abundance—the “windows of heaven” pouring out provision. But in our pursuit of what God gives, are we overlooking the blessing of what He prevents? The blessing that comes not in visible increase but in silent preservation? God’s promise to “rebuke the devourer for your sakes” may be one of the most powerful—and…

[thegreatcallofgod]

*BE A TRUE WORSHIPER OF GOD* (John 4:19-24) and FELLOWSHIP with Him through Jesus Christ & the Holy Spirit AT ALL TIMES (1 John 1:3).

‼️MOST IMPORTANT: To become a true worshiper & TO HAVE A BLESSED LIFE, you must STAY AWAY from sin, idol worships, 'man-made' religion, its leaders/their churches/temples/fellowships/worship places, denominations & all ungodly traditions (1 Tim 6:5 KJV, Col 2:8, Matt 15:3).

*ONLY THEN GOD WILL FILL YOUR LIFE WITH EVERLASTING JOY, HOPE & PEACE* (Isa 51:11, 2 Thess 2:16, Phil 4:7).

God bless you & your loved ones.

THE GREAT CALL OF GOD

[A non-religious & non-denominational SPIRITUAL ministry]

https://www.facebook.com/TheGreatCallofGod