Quote:
Originally Posted by NeitherFirstnorLast
The sister who attacked my position on tithing has forced her own views in her household - taking the lead and getting her husband to submit to her position, although she herself does not earn the pay cheque and they are a financially struggling family of nine. She believes she must tithe 10% of their GROSS income, before taxes (which are substantially higher here in Canada than they are in the USA). She believes her tithe must come first, and if she can't pay other bills, too bad 'God comes first'. They have a lot of credit issues, and have declared bankruptcy before. They are really struggling.
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When I read this sad testimony, the verse came to mind, "
by works of law shall no flesh be justified before Him." -- Rom 3.20
I grew up in Catholicism, and it is so easy to latch onto some church commandment (
like going to mass and confession) to soothe the conscience and bribe our heart. How many other families have been damaged by such legalities?
NFNL, your research on Tithing is eye-opening. It never existed in the early church, then it got twisted and revived to support Rome? Do you have any idea how much gold is owned by the Vatican?!?
Btw, back in the mid-80's during the "new way," WL did propose an increase from 10% to 15% tithing. 10% was for the church, and 5% was for the full-timers. I remember one brother chiding me for offering 10% of net, rather than 10% of gross.