Understanding Tithes: A Biblical Perspective

Introduction to Tithing

• The speaker addresses the audience, expressing blessings and introducing the topic of tithes due to frequent inquiries from church members.

• Emphasizes that many questions come from newer members of the church, indicating a need for teaching on this subject.

Biblical Foundations of Tithing

• The discussion begins with Genesis 14:20, highlighting Abraham as the first person to tithe after defeating kings, showcasing God's favor in his victory.

• Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, blesses Abraham and receives tithes from him, establishing a precedent for tithing before Mosaic Law was given.

Historical Context of Tithing

• The speaker clarifies that tithing predates Moses; it was instilled in human consciousness by God. Examples include Cain and Abel's offerings.

• Abraham’s act of giving a tithe is presented as an example of obedience to God's teachings about giving.

Jacob's Commitment to Tithe

• In Genesis 28:22, Jacob vows to give a tenth (the tithe) back to God after receiving divine promises during his vision at Bethel.

• This reinforces that the practice of tithing was established long before the law was codified by Moses.

Levitical Priesthood and Tithes

• Numbers 18:21 discusses how God designated the Levites as priests who would not receive land but would live off the tithes collected from Israel.

• The Levites' reliance on tithes emphasizes their role in ministry and service within the tabernacle.

Nehemiah's Reinforcement of Tithe Practices

• Transitioning to Nehemiah 10:37, where further instructions regarding tithes are discussed within the context of community responsibilities towards temple support.

Nehemiah's Return and the Importance of Tithing

Historical Context of Nehemiah

• Nehemiah discusses the return from Babylon after 70 years of captivity, where they were servants to the king. God commanded them to rebuild Jerusalem, including its temple and walls.

• Upon their arrival in Jerusalem, Nehemiah instructed the people to make sacrifices and present their firstborn as offerings to God, emphasizing adherence to Moses' law.

Observance of God's Laws

• Nehemiah reminded the people about observing the Sabbath and celebrating solemn feasts dedicated to God, reinforcing community worship practices.

• He emphasized bringing offerings from their harvests—first fruits, wine, oil—to support priests in God's house, highlighting communal responsibility towards religious leaders.

The Concept of Tithing

• Nehemiah recalled that tithes were designated for Levites since they had no inheritance or means for sustenance; thus, it was crucial for community members to provide these tithes.

• The tithe is defined as one-tenth (10%) of one's earnings or produce. This practice ensured that Levites received a share from all cities where they served.

Agricultural Contributions

• Specific instructions were given regarding agricultural products: the first male offspring and a tenth of grains must be brought to the temple as part of their commitment to God’s laws.

The Prophetic Message in Malachi

Introduction to Malachi's Role

• Transitioning into Malachi's teachings—another prophet who returned from Babylon—Nehemiah highlights his role alongside other prophets like Ezra and Zechariah during Jerusalem's restoration efforts.

Call for Obedience

• Malachi addressed how people had forgotten God's laws regarding tithes due to neglect or greed. This disobedience angered God as many withheld their contributions out of selfishness.

Prophecy Concerning Future Events

• The prophecies in Malachi are seen as foretelling events related to Jesus Christ’s coming—a significant message intended for future generations beyond those who initially heard it.

Preparation for Christ: The Messenger

John the Baptist's Role

• In chapter 3, Malachi prophesies about sending a messenger (John the Baptist), who would prepare the way before Jesus’ ministry began on Earth.

Call for Repentance

• John preached repentance and urged people to turn back towards righteousness while preparing hearts for Jesus’ arrival—the Messiah who would baptize with fire.

Fulfillment of Prophecy

• The fulfillment of Malachi’s prophecy occurred approximately 430 years later when Jesus came into public ministry. It emphasizes continuity between Old Testament prophecies and New Testament realities.

The Anticipation of the Messiah

The Longing for the Messiah

• The people of Israel were eagerly awaiting the arrival of the angel of the covenant, the Lord, and the Messiah, expressing deep anxiety for His coming.

• Upon His arrival, they did not recognize or accept Him, highlighting a disconnect between their expectations and reality.

Prophecy from Malachi

• Malachi 3:2 poses a question about who can endure the day of Christ's coming, emphasizing that He will come as a purifying fire.

• This suggests that many would be unprepared in their hearts for His advent, leading to destruction rather than blessing if they remained unrepentant.

Preparation through Repentance

• God sent John as a messenger to prepare hearts for receiving Jesus by calling for repentance and readiness.

• Malachi 3:3 describes God's intention to refine and purify His people like silver and gold, indicating a process of spiritual cleansing.

Promises of Restoration

• In verse 4, it is promised that offerings from Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to God once purification occurs, reminiscent of past blessings.

• Verse 5 warns against various sins such as sorcery and adultery while affirming God's unwavering nature; He has shown mercy to Israel despite their transgressions.

Call to Return

• God calls out to Israel in verse 7, urging them to return to Him after straying from His laws since their ancestors' time in the desert. They are challenged on how they have robbed Him through disobedience.

• The concept of "robbing God" is introduced in verse 8 regarding tithes and offerings; this indicates a serious spiritual issue among the people.

The Importance of Tithes

Divine Expectations on Giving

• In verse 10, God commands bringing all tithes into His storehouse as a test of faithfulness; He promises abundant blessings in return if they comply with this directive.

• This promise includes both spiritual and material blessings—assuring that nothing will be lacking if they fulfill their obligations towards giving.

Protection Against Loss

• Verse 11 emphasizes God's commitment to rebuke devourers so that crops remain fruitful; fulfilling tithes ensures protection over one's labor and investments.

Blessings Beyond Agriculture

• The discussion extends beyond agriculture into various forms of work including microenterprises; God's blessings are meant for all aspects of life where individuals engage in honest labor.

Acknowledgment from Nations

The Concept of the "Desirable Land" in Relation to the Church

Understanding the Desirable Land

• The term "desirable land" refers to the church, which is made desirable by God and Jesus Christ as its head.

• Those who dedicate their hearts to God and fulfill His commandments are blessed, with the church being called a "desirable land."

• This concept extends beyond historical context; believers have been living this future with Christ for over 2000 years.

The Role of Believers

• Verse 13 highlights complaints from people questioning the value of serving God amidst their struggles.

• Some individuals express doubt about God's service, feeling that their faith does not yield immediate benefits or relief from needs.

• Such attitudes lead to God's displeasure, as He observes ingratitude and impatience among these individuals.

Divine Recognition of Faithful Followers

• Despite rebellion, there exists a group that fears and loves God, speaking positively about Him.

• These faithful individuals are noted by God, who records them in a book as His special treasure due to their devotion.

Special Treasure of God

• The faithful are distinguished from those who live in sin; they choose righteousness and seek to please God.

• Being called God's special treasure signifies immense spiritual value and blessing for those who follow His commandments.

Discernment Between Righteousness and Wickedness

Recognizing Differences Among People

• Verse 18 emphasizes discernment between the righteous (those serving God) and the wicked (those not serving).

Melchizedek: A Type of Christ

Introduction to Melchizedek

• Hebrews chapter 7 introduces Melchizedek as both king of Salem and priest of the Most High God who blessed Abraham.

Significance of Melchizedek's Priesthood

• Melchizedek symbolizes Jesus Christ; he has no recorded genealogy or end, representing an eternal priesthood similar to that of Christ.

Comparison with Levitical Priesthood

• Verse 5 discusses how Levites were commanded to collect tithes from their brethren despite all tribes descending from Abraham.

Unique Nature of Jesus' Priesthood

Understanding Tithing and Its Spiritual Significance

The Role of Tithing in Biblical Context

• The concept of tithing is rooted in the biblical narrative, where Christ, as a priest, received tithes from Abraham, who held God's promises.

• Malachi's prophecy regarding tithing is seen as relevant for the future church when Jesus would preach His gospel, emphasizing the importance of giving.

• In the New Testament, apostles did not emphasize tithing explicitly because it was an ingrained duty established long before their time.

• Early Christians were known for their generous donations and offerings; at times, apostles struggled to manage the abundance given by congregants.

• The teaching on tithing was embedded in people's consciousness rather than needing explicit mention in scripture.

Spiritual Teachings on Giving

• The Holy Spirit has consistently guided believers on the necessity of tithing through various means such as prophecies and visions over decades.

• Tithing is defined as one-tenth of one's income or resources; this principle has been taught since ancient times.

• Some individuals are hesitant to tithe due to past experiences with manipulative practices in other churches that exploited financial contributions.

• Trust issues arose among congregants due to greed and materialism observed within some religious leaders and institutions.

Faith and Generosity

• True followers of God approach giving with sincerity and faith, often sharing testimonies about divine provision after committing to God's plan.

• Believers are encouraged to seek guidance from God regarding their financial responsibilities; sincere prayers can lead to revelations about proper conduct in giving.

Prayer for Healing and Deliverance

• A call for prayer emphasizes seeking God's wisdom while addressing personal doubts about financial obligations like tithing.

• Individuals are urged to pray sincerely for understanding and revelation from God concerning their spiritual duties towards Him.

Closing Reflections

• The speaker expresses hope that these teachings foster spiritual growth while protecting against distractions that could hinder one's faith journey.

Prayer for Mercy and Healing

Seeking Divine Intervention

• The speaker expresses a heartfelt plea to God, acknowledging that many people cry out for help but may not know how to pray effectively. They request God's mercy and intervention in their lives.

• A call is made for revelation and guidance for those who doubt or have not yet believed, emphasizing the importance of divine assistance in showing them the right path.

Requesting Healing and Relief

• The speaker implores God to extend His powerful hand to heal those suffering from illness, whether at home or in hospitals, highlighting a collective need for compassion during challenging times.

• There is a specific prayer asking for relief from the tribulations caused by the pandemic, showcasing a desire for healing and restoration within the community.

Expression of Faith Through Song