Do you do Facebook? If so, there has been quite the intellectual discussion going on at:
There is no need to wonder if people are passionate about money. That comes without saying. I have been blessed in the dialog that for the most part, Jesus has not been neglected and authors have been tolerant of each other's beliefs. I have concluded and observed a couple things. See if you agree.
When it comes to giving whether in times before Jesus or after Jesus, the act of giving is all about the heart. God does love a cheerful giver.
The issue of tithe 10% or not is really a mute point. What real value is there in a word? Whether the word is tithe, transfer assets, write a check or give, does not matter. It is the act and the condition of your heart when you take action. If I fall short in the giving area, likely it is because some times it just becomes mechanical in nature. I give and don't think about it. Likely, God would prefer I give Him thanks for the opportunity to give.
I am a bit intrigued about the dynamics of the dialog. I think I have a rather diversified Facebook friendship of about 1500 people. Most of the dialog is created by those who believe in giving but think the concept of tithing is under the law and Jesus freed us from the law. Very few commented they believe tithing is a new testament concept.
I find it interesting in a public venue such as Facebook, tithers for the most part do not step up to the plate and defend their beliefs. This is not a judgement statement, just an observation that the debate is a bit lopsided and was not intended to be.
As to where you give and how much you give, that is between you and the Father. I know a church's business model is based on 20% of the members giving 80% of the money. So your giving or tithing is important to the success of the model. God bless you in your faithfulness.
My suggestion for the 100% of believers is to do a heart check and determine how much and where God wants you to invest your money. Maybe it will be to your local church. Maybe it will be to feed the poor. Maybe it will be both. Giving is commanded by God. To choose otherwise is disobedience.
Thank you again for your passion. All things work together for those that love the Lord. That is a promise!
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