The 3 tithes in the Mosaic Law?
1st tithe- 1/10 of all given to the Levites(Leviticua 27:30-33; Numbers 18:21-32).
2nd tithe? -1/10 of remaining 9/10 set apart and consumed in a sacred meal in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 12:5-6,11,18; 14:22-27) those living too far from Jerusalem could bring money.
3rd tithe?- Replaced 2nd tithe every 3rd year (or 1/10 of the balance every 3rd year) for the Levites, aliens, orphans and widows (Deuteronomy 14:28-29) if 2-3 tithes, then the total of the tithe= approximately 19-22 % per year!!
One New Testament Theologian said: "the tithes were the gifts to the Lord that the Law required. There were three: two that were annual and one that came every three years. The tithes supported the priests and Levites, and also widow , orphans, and foreigners (Deut 14:28-29).Most Churches today have tithing as part of their church doctrine. That's alright too, but the New Covenant Church is suppose to be a cheerful giver. Whatever the Lord lead you to give to the local church please be cheerful in giving.
In past, I've heard ministers say, you would be curse if you didn't tithe. The people were cursed with poor production from their land and animals. A key verse from the Law of Moses read that the curse will come "because you didn't serve the Lord your God with joy and gladness of heart for the abundance of everything"(Deut 28:47).
I am a tither and I've been one for years. I purpose in my heart to give more than the 10%. I feel better since I know the truth and I don't have to feel guilty if I didn't have a dime to give.I consider myself more of a cheerful giver and I ask the Father what should I give. Apostle Paul makes is clear,"But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity, for God loves a cheeful giver"(2 COR 9:6-7NKJV). Email: areskridge@sbcglobal.net. website:www.ruthplace.com. Enjoy your blessings.
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Things are easy for us to do when we know the truth. I'm able to be a cheerful giver without any condemnation. I love to give to those who are less fortunate than I am. This is where I'm happy. Just this Christmas I enjoyed singing carols, and sharing at the Nursing Home. Then my duties in the prison ministry. This is where I find joy and happiness.
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