Quote:
Originally Posted by Tithesmeister
I’d like to clarify something. I don’t generally go around telling people not to tithe. I usually focus on what people teach about tithing. If the teaching is in line with scripture, the rest will fall into place, I believe. This is born out, it seems to me, by the fact that most of those opposing me are receiving tithes. They also seem to be teaching something that they are not able to support with scripture, judging by the lack of scripture posted to support their position.
Otherwise, I think it’s a great idea EB. I’m a little gun shy though. Because the scripture I would quote to support ministry, is the same ones they use to support tithing.
So how about for starters . . .
17] Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
[18] For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
It seems to me that this use of honor is more in line with what we would refer to as an honorarium. I don’t believe it is talking about accolades, but an offering in appreciation. I think it indicates free will, or even perhaps a negotiated amount. But the fact that it mentions double honor says (to me) that it is not a set percentage. Because, a tithe is a tithe. If you double it, it would become two tithes.
Also, it indicates (especially), that it is somewhat subjective. As in not automatic.
Whatcha think?
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Here is what I found individuals doing who taught no more tithes but taught the double honor, or double portion. some took it as 20% but others believed it was as much as you were able to give, or take. Still, while some who are on the receiving end get happy about the pay increase, this is what Paul is trying to say. He emphasises that he preaches the Gospel without charge, meaning he ( or we) are never to ask for it from the saints, the neophytes, and church family. We are to teach, preach, but never ask, and therefore by Jesus laying it upon the hearts of those who are truly of the Body, then we receive support. In 3 John the apostle tells Gaius that the ministers were to take NOTHING from the pagans as far as support. Therefore the ministers understand that God is the provider. Just like God commanded Elijah to makes the odds greater for the prophets of BAAL
1 Kings 18:33. That Elijah watered down his sacrifice to the place that no fire to consume it, ONLY the fire from God
1 Kings 18:38. How the armies of Israel were whittled down to a select few
Judges 7:7, the same way we are to never ask for the support. As to not make our glorying void
1 Corinthians 9:15. No one knows how to supply as well as God, and therefore when the saints love their brethren, and are focusing on Jesus Christ, they will do as the Lord moves them to do.