Tithing | AGC & Discipleship Training (27th May)

AGC Training on Tithing

Introduction to Tithing

• The session welcomes participants and introduces the topic of tithing, emphasizing its significance for both the church and individuals. The aim is to ensure that tithing is done meaningfully for mutual benefit.

Announcement of Online Church Launch

• A reminder is given about the pilot test launch of "Wow Life Online Church," referred to as "walk." Details will be shared through regional coaches, accommodating different time zones for accessibility.

• The official test launch date is set for June 1st, with encouragement for participants to reach out with any questions.

Birthday Blessing Ceremony

• A birthday celebration occurs for a co-founder of Wow Life Church, highlighting their leadership role within the community. Participants are invited to bless her on this special occasion.

• A prayer is offered, focusing on blessings and prophecies over her life and family, indicating a strong spiritual connection among members. This moment emphasizes community support and recognition of leadership roles within the church.

Transition into Teaching Segment

• The speaker transitions from a celebratory tone to a teaching mode regarding tithing, sharing personal experiences with practicing tithing since knowing the Lord. They express a commitment to understanding its deeper meanings beyond legalism.

• Emphasis is placed on being religious about certain practices like tithing while avoiding legalism; this balance aims at fostering genuine faith rather than mere obligation.

Insights on Tithing

• The speaker hints at revealing new perspectives on tithing that may not have been previously considered by attendees, suggesting an enlightening discussion ahead based on scholarly insights.

The Journey of Faith and Finances

Introduction to the Community

• The speaker introduces a community referred to as "Wow," emphasizing its supportive nature for individuals chosen by God.

• There is contemplation about sharing personal stories online, with a focus on avoiding condemnation while discussing God's influence on finances.

Personal Background and Calling

• The speaker reflects on their early faith journey, initially believing they would serve as a financier for the kingdom rather than in pastoral leadership.

• At 19 years old, the speaker successfully managed a lottery ticket printing business, indicating early financial success.

Business Partnerships and Challenges

• The speaker describes entering into business partnerships that led to complications due to one partner's association with underworld figures in Sri Lanka.

• A shift occurs when this partner becomes arrogant due to newfound power, leading to conflicts within the company.

Confrontation and Decision-Making

• Tensions escalate between the speaker and their partner, resulting in an ultimatum from the partner that challenges the speaker's resolve.

• In response to perceived unfair treatment, the speaker decides to leave the company after taking significant assets with them.

Divine Guidance and Revelation

• After leaving, the speaker expresses confidence in God's protection despite threats from their former partner regarding asset recovery.

• The speaker recounts praying at home and receiving divine guidance through Numbers 31 about tithing and offerings during this pivotal moment.

Biblical Insights and Assurance

• The Lord reassures the speaker of support during challenging times while referencing biblical narratives involving vengeance against enemies (Numbers 31).

Destruction and Faithfulness: A Complex Narrative

The Concept of Destruction

• The speaker discusses a narrative involving total destruction, emphasizing the annihilation of families and even animals, indicating a severe moral stance on certain actions deemed "haram" (forbidden).

• There is an assertion that powerful individuals will come seeking help but should not be engaged with; this reflects a theme of power dynamics and negotiation in dire situations.

• The idea of reclaiming what was lost is introduced, suggesting that there are boundaries to what can be negotiated or returned.

Personal Experiences and Consequences

• A significant event occurred that led to drastic consequences for those involved, hinting at a larger story without revealing specifics. This suggests themes of justice or retribution.

• The speaker recounts an encounter with someone who had previously avoided church but sought help during a crisis, highlighting personal transformation amidst turmoil.

Divine Intervention and Financial Lessons

• An unexpected visit from the individual in distress leads to discussions about public apologies and conditions for resolution, illustrating the complexities of interpersonal relationships under stress.

• After receiving financial restitution, the speaker reflects on purchasing a watch as a symbol of victory but emphasizes that ultimately the money did not belong to him; it was "haram" (forbidden).

Tithing and Spiritual Principles

• The discussion shifts towards tithing, linking it back to divine principles where blessings are promised in return for faithfulness. This introduces Malachi 3's teachings on tithes.

• Key concepts include God opening the windows of heaven as a metaphor for abundance and lack being eliminated through faithfulness in giving.

Faithfulness vs. Unfaithfulness

• The notion that God's relationship with His people mirrors marital fidelity is explored; unfaithfulness leads to consequences both spiritually and materially.

Understanding the Concept of Tithing in Relation to Power and Tribute

The Nature of Tithing

• Tithing is described as a tribute, not merely a financial transaction; it represents respect and acknowledgment towards a higher power.

• There are two aspects of tithing: tribute to the powerful and sharing bounty with partners after plundering or gaining wealth.

• The essence of tithing involves fairness to the divine power that supports you, extending beyond just monetary contributions.

Broader Implications of Tithing

• Tithes symbolize faithfulness in various life aspects, including health and relationships, not limited to financial matters.

• The speaker emphasizes that individuals should not feel condemned for past failures in tithing but rather be encouraged to make future decisions based on understanding.

Historical Context of Tithing

• The concept of tithing is traced back to Abraham, highlighting its historical significance within religious practices.

• Levi's connection to Melchizedek illustrates the hierarchical nature of blessings associated with tithes; the lesser (Levi) is blessed by the greater (Melchizedek).

Priesthood and Inheritance

• Understanding that only priests receive tithes clarifies its role within religious structures; non-priests engage differently through partnerships or bounties.

• God is portrayed as a hierarch rather than a partner in business dealings; this distinction underscores the reverence owed to divine authority.

Personal Reflections on Inheritance

• The speaker shares personal anecdotes about family inheritance, emphasizing how tangible items can represent deeper legacies and responsibilities tied to one's heritage.

Understanding the Concept of Tithing and Inheritance

The Nature of Tithing

• The speaker emphasizes that receiving tithes is akin to collecting an inheritance, highlighting a personal connection to the act of giving.

• They express gratitude towards those who give tithes, noting that their financial choices differ from those not called to priesthood, indicating a unique responsibility for priests.

• The speaker insists that tithing is viewed as an inheritance by priests, reinforcing its significance in their spiritual practice.

Biblical Context: Genesis 14

• A narrative from Genesis 14 is introduced, detailing a conflict involving ten kings, including Abraham and Melchizedek.

• The story unfolds with Lot being captured during the conflict; Abraham is called to rescue him despite past betrayals.

Themes of Justice and Redemption

• The speaker references Ezekiel 16 to illustrate Sodom's sins related to injustice towards the needy, contrasting it with Abraham's redemptive actions.

• After rescuing Lot, Abraham possesses significant wealth from his victory over four kings, setting the stage for his encounter with Melchizedek.

Encounter with Melchizedek

• Upon returning victorious, Abraham meets Melchizedek, who symbolizes Christ and represents divine authority in this biblical account.

• Melchizedek offers bread and wine—elements reminiscent of communion—signifying a profound spiritual moment between them.

Significance of Tithing in Warfare

• The act of blessing by Melchizedek acknowledges God's sovereignty over heaven and earth while emphasizing His role in granting victory in battles.

The Political Deal Between Abraham and the King of Sodom

The Nature of the Deal

• The king of Sodom proposes a deal to Abraham, asking for Lot in exchange for goods. This reflects typical political negotiations.

• Abraham refuses the offer, emphasizing his commitment to God as "the possessor of heaven and earth," indicating that he does not want any claims on his wealth from others.

Principles Behind Abraham's Decision

• Abraham's refusal is rooted in his desire to avoid anyone claiming they made him rich; he practices the principle of tithing instead.

• He emphasizes giving a tithe to those who are spiritual leaders or coverings, ensuring he respects their inheritance while maintaining his own integrity.

Fairness and Justice in Tithing

• Abraham insists on fairness by allowing only what was rightfully earned by his partners in war, demonstrating a law of partnership before God.

• His actions set an example for others, showing that tithing is about justice and fairness rather than mere transactions.

Core Values: Fairness, Justice, and Faithfulness

Understanding Core Values

• The core values highlighted are fairness, justice, and faithfulness—principles that guide proper conduct in financial dealings with God.

• Jesus reinforces these values when discussing tithing in Matthew 23:23, stressing that it transcends monetary concerns.

Weightier Matters Beyond Money

• Jesus criticizes legalistic approaches to tithing that neglect deeper issues like justice and mercy; true faithfulness involves understanding these weighty matters.

• The essence of tithing lies not just in giving but ensuring partners receive blessings fairly.

The Role of Tribute and Acknowledgment

Tribute as Recognition

• Tithes serve as tribute acknowledging God's role as protector; it's about recognizing His faithfulness over various aspects of life.

• Paying tribute is seen as just because it honors God's contributions to one's life experiences—financially and relationally.

Importance of Perspective on Giving

• Emphasis is placed on viewing tithes through the lens of justice rather than merely fulfilling a percentage requirement; it’s about fair acknowledgment.

God's Involvement in Warfare

Giving as Part of War Dynamics

Understanding the Role of Tithing and God's Faithfulness

The Nature of Struggles and Divine Support

• Different struggles require divine intervention, emphasizing that God’s support is essential in overcoming various life challenges, not limited to financial issues.

• Invoking God’s faithfulness involves a relational aspect; believers express their commitment to Him, expecting His justice and mercy in return.

Historical Context of Tithing

• Tithing originated as a tribute during times of war, with Abraham being one of the first to practice it as an acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.

• Numbers 31 illustrates the historical significance of tithes as tributes during warfare, highlighting different amounts required at various times.

God's Commands Regarding Wealth

• In the context of Jericho, God commanded that all spoils be considered "haram," indicating that certain victories come with specific divine instructions regarding wealth.

• The tendency for individuals to attribute their success solely to personal effort is critiqued; true agency lies in recognizing God’s role in our achievements.

Misconceptions About Money and Tithing

• Many wealthy individuals do not tithe, suggesting that tithing should not be equated with financial prosperity; it serves a deeper spiritual purpose.

• The discussion emphasizes that tithing relates more to divine support in spiritual battles than merely financial transactions.

The Current State of Christianity and Its Growth

• Despite differing beliefs, major Christian denominations like Catholicism remain influential financially; the Catholic Church is noted as one of the richest organizations globally.

• Protestant numbers are growing rapidly, indicating a shift within Christianity over time while acknowledging ongoing reforms needed within churches.

Advancing God's Kingdom Through Financial Blessings

• Pentecostal charismatic Christianity is identified as the fastest-growing segment globally due to its focus on understanding Christ's teachings.

• Regardless of denominational differences, all churches contribute towards advancing God's kingdom; financial blessings are seen as part of fulfilling this mandate.

The Importance of Spiritual Focus Over Material Wealth

• Emphasizing church growth aligns with God’s promise to bless His people; He protects and strengthens those who advance His kingdom.

Understanding the Relationship Between Church and Corporate World

The Distinction Between Personal and Corporate Roles

• The speaker questions the difference between being an individual versus a partner in a company, suggesting that both roles may seem similar in terms of financial involvement.

• Emphasizes that the church holds a unique power to influence lives beyond monetary aspects, highlighting its spiritual significance.

Stakeholder Concept in Church Financing

• Discusses how contributing to church financing makes one a stakeholder in its vision, shifting personal investment into communal purpose.

Historical Context: War and Spiritual Leadership

• References Numbers 31 where God instructs Moses on taking vengeance against the Midianites, illustrating divine guidance in warfare.

• Highlights that 12,000 armed men were sent to war under priestly leadership, drawing parallels with historical warrior monks.

Knights Templar and Their Practices

• Mentions the Knights Templar's historical role as warrior priests who ensured God's share was honored during conflicts.

• Explains why the Catholic Church disbanded the Knights Templar due to their immense wealth and practices that conflicted with church authority.

Divine Instruction and Warfare Outcomes

• Describes how victorious warriors brought spoils of war to Moses and Eliza the priest, emphasizing recognition of divine support in their success.

• Stresses that acknowledging God’s role is crucial when experiencing victories or completing significant life challenges.

Tribute System Established by God

• Moses expresses anger towards army officers for sparing women after battle; this reflects strict adherence to divine commands regarding warfare outcomes.

Understanding the Concept of Tithing and Tribute

The Nature of Partnership and Tribute

• Abraham's refusal to partner with the king of Sodom highlights his commitment to God's instructions regarding tribute, emphasizing that he is not interested in any share of the bounty.

• There exists a cultural practice where after winning a battle, a fair tribute is given to God, indicating an established system for acknowledging divine support.

• The priest does not take from the bounty; instead, it is customary for all spoils to be returned to God as part of honoring Him through tithes.

The Role of Tithing in Acknowledging God's Power

• Individuals often express gratitude by offering a tithe rather than seeking partnership or profit-sharing with spiritual leaders, reinforcing that personal gains belong solely to them.

• The concept emphasizes that while individuals benefit from their endeavors, they are expected to give a tribute (10%) back to God as recognition of His role in their success.

Cultural Context and Biblical Precedent

• Abraham’s actions set a precedent for future generations regarding tithing; it was not about personal gain but ensuring fairness towards God as outlined in Levitical law.

• Understanding this context clarifies misconceptions about tithing being merely financial support for churches; it is fundamentally about recognizing God's sovereignty over one's life.

Spiritual Warfare and Its Implications

• Tithing is framed within the context of spiritual warfare; believers are encouraged to give tribute amidst challenges posed by adversities like illness or financial struggles.

• The act of giving tithe serves as an acknowledgment that one is under divine protection during life's battles against various forms of destruction.

Defining War in Everyday Life

• War can be understood metaphorically as the daily struggles faced by individuals—financial crises, health issues, or competition—indicating ongoing battles in life.

Understanding the Role of Faith and Tithing in Protection

The Mindset for Invoking God's Protection

• The speaker emphasizes the necessity of a protective mindset to invoke God against adversities, referencing Ephesians about wearing the full armor of God due to the ongoing spiritual warfare with the enemy.

Misconceptions About Tithing

• Clarification is provided that tithing is not merely about financial contributions to the church; rather, it represents a deeper acknowledgment of God's power and protection over one's life.

Acknowledging God's Faithfulness

• The speaker stresses that true acknowledgment of God's faithfulness should be consistent, not just during times of crisis. This relationship is built on trust and recognition of divine support.

Serving with Joy and Commitment

• Leaders express their commitment to serving others joyfully without feeling burdened by sacrifices made, highlighting their love for God and community as motivation for their service.

Fairness in Contributions

• Discussion on fairness in tithing suggests that contributions are necessary for expanding church initiatives like WOW online church, emphasizing justice in supporting communal efforts.

Biblical Insights on Tithing from Malachi

• The speaker references Malachi's teachings, indicating that tithing relates to fairness and justice rather than simply giving 10%, urging individuals to recognize blessings received before contributing.

Covenant Relationships and Faithfulness

• Malachi discusses covenant relationships (e.g., marriage), linking them to faithfulness towards God. Breaking these covenants leads to consequences, paralleling how one should approach tithing with integrity.

Judgment Against Unfaithfulness

• The text highlights that offerings are judged based on faithfulness. Tithes serve as protection against various forms of unfaithfulness or injustice within society, including sorcery and exploitation.

Conclusion: The Protective Nature of Tithes

Understanding Tithing and Faithfulness

The Concept of Robbing God

• The speaker references Malachi 3:8, questioning how people can rob God through tithes and offerings, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness in a covenant relationship.

God's Promise to the Faithful

• The speaker highlights that God promises to protect and curse those who oppose His faithful followers, portraying Him as a "God of war" against unfaithfulness.

Tithing Beyond Financial Gain

• Emphasizing Malachi 3:10, the speaker encourages listeners to "try me now in this," suggesting that tithing is not merely about financial return but about spiritual commitment and protection.

Misconceptions About Tithing

• Many believe that giving tithes guarantees financial increase; however, the speaker argues that God's support transcends monetary gain, focusing instead on overall well-being and protection from adversities.

Role in the Church and Financial Blessings

• The speaker asserts that understanding one's role within the church is crucial for receiving financial blessings. Aligning with church responsibilities allows God to provide resources necessary for fulfilling those roles.

The Spirit of Mammon

Allegiance to Mammon

• The discussion introduces Mammon as a spirit demanding allegiance, contrasting it with spiritual fidelity. This spirit can control individuals' lives if they allow it.

Spiritual Warfare Against Mammon

• By rejecting material temptations (like those offered by Sodom's king), believers engage in spiritual warfare. Tithing serves as an act of defiance against this controlling spirit.

Authority Through Tithing

• The act of tithing is framed as a means to assert authority over financial pressures and align oneself with divine purpose rather than succumbing to greed or materialism.

Alignment with Church Leadership

• Aligning oneself with church leadership through tithes reinforces commitment to spiritual values over material concerns, allowing individuals to enjoy their resources without being controlled by them.

The Reality of God's Presence

Recognizing God's Reality

Understanding the Concept of Tithing and Its Spiritual Significance

The Dichotomy of God and Mammon

• Jesus identifies only two gods: God and mammon, suggesting that the opposing force to God is material wealth. This dichotomy emphasizes the spiritual battle between divine devotion and materialism.

Acknowledging Financial Obligations to God

• The speaker reflects on personal experiences with tithing, expressing a realization about robbing God when failing to give back. This acknowledgment serves as a call for self-reflection regarding one's financial commitments to faith.

King David's Example of Sacrifice

• The narrative shifts to King David during a time of national crisis, illustrating his commitment to worship through sacrifice rather than taking what was offered for free. His actions highlight the importance of integrity in giving.

Fairness and Justice in Worship

• Emphasizing fairness, the speaker notes that true worship involves cost; it should not be transactional or merely a business deal but rather an act that reflects gratitude towards God's blessings. David’s refusal to accept land without payment exemplifies this principle.

The Personal Cost of Tithing

• The speaker argues that genuine tithing should come at a personal cost, reflecting on how God's sacrifices warrant our own sacrifices in return. This perspective challenges listeners to consider their own giving practices seriously.

Trustworthiness Through Financial Integrity

Understanding the Role of Money in Faith

The Importance of Money in Spiritual Life

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of money, stating that it is a challenge that tests one's faith and diligence, rather than merely a financial concern.

• There is a reluctance to discuss money within church settings, yet the speaker argues that nothing else can challenge an individual's faith as profoundly as money does.

• The offense taken when pastors talk about money reflects a lack of trust in God's kingdom's faithfulness; discussing finances should be seen as a pastor's right.

Biblical Promises Regarding Tithing

• A biblical promise is cited: bringing tithes into the storehouse ensures everyone has enough food, allowing for the spread of God's word globally.

• The focus is on blessings rather than just monetary gain; God promises abundant blessings beyond what one can receive.

Divine Protection and Provision

• God pledges to protect individuals from destroyers that threaten their finances and health, emphasizing His commitment to their well-being.

• The term "Lord of hosts" signifies God's power and authority in spiritual warfare, indicating that tithing invokes divine protection against adversaries.

Questions About Tithing Usage

• A question arises regarding what priests can do with tithes; the speaker asserts it's not congregants' concern how funds are utilized by church leaders.

• Emphasizing transparency, the speaker states that tithes support not only church operations but also ensure pastors and their families are cared for.

Responsibilities of Church Leaders

• Pastors have a duty to live selflessly for their congregation; any financial blessing received by the church ultimately benefits its members.