I am seeking spiritual input from those that have something fruitful to say.
For a few years I have been going to one church and my pastor was considered to the an Apostle and Prophet. Over the past year, I have become very uneasy about "his dealings." We have been subject to very strong teachings on tithing and giving. In fact, it is not uncommon for us to collect multiple offerings in one service. In addition to the love offerings, poor offerings, regular offerings, we also had a "expense revival" each month that was for the sole purpose of collecting more money.
My level of discomforted elevated when I discovered that a few things:
1. Tithing was a biblical principle that applied to the Old Testament and
Malachi 3 was being preached out of context.
2. My pastor was using some or all of the tithe money for his personal salary and not for "storehouse" purposes. In fact, the ministry does not have outreach ministries and all things that are required of the church are the saints' responsibility, i.e. we have to personally chip in for toilet paper, soap, etc.
3. In addition to his salary, he receives love offerings twice monthly. It is not common church knowledge that he receives a salary, and many poor people are giving of their substance because they believe he is getting no compensation.
I feel betrayed and fully disagree with the operations that are going on. But before I get away with my feelings, I need some biblical perspective as to what is right and wrong. I also need to know what should I do as a believer regarding these issues. I do not want to out of the will of Lord and I do not want to "lean to my own understanding." I am considering finding another church, but I am afraid of all the "mess" that is out there.
I have been in much prayer for well over a year regarding these things, and I feel extremely lost because this is the only church I know. I was baptized and filled in this church.
Any godly advice is very welcomed as I am troubled in my heart.
Thanks in advance.
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