Lecture Notes: Modern Day Biblical Tithing

Introduction

• 119 Ministries emphasizes the whole Bible's truth and applicability today.
• Topic: Understanding biblical tithing and its application in modern times.
• Encouragement to test teachings and seek the truth personally.

Definition of Tithing

• Tithe: Literally means "tenth."
• Historically, tithes referred to a tenth of agricultural produce (grain, wine, oil, etc.).
• Different types of tithes existed in the Torah:
  • Levites' Tithe: For those assisting in tabernacle duties.
  • Celebration Tithe: For festivals in Jerusalem.
  • Charity Tithe: Every third year for the economically disadvantaged.

Levites and Their Role

• Levites had no land inheritance; they served in the tabernacle/temple.
• Supported through the tithes as a perpetual statute.
• They ran services, taught scriptures, served as musicians, overseers, and more.

Can We Tithe Today?

• Common objection: Old laws, including tithing, are no longer applicable.
• Yeshua's Teachings: Jesus affirmed the Torah's ongoing authority; tithing laws still valid.
  • Matthew 23:23 emphasizes justice, mercy, faithfulness but not neglecting tithing.
• Literal tithing impossible today (no Levites, no temple, not in Israel).

Applying Tithing Principles Today

• Tithe to Levites now a principle to support modern ministers (pastors, teachers, etc.).
• Modern Tithing:
  • Analogous to supporting those who minister like Levites through monetary means.
  • Paul supports this concept (1 Corinthians 9:13-14).
• Giving is a spiritual application, similar to how believers observe feast days today.

Practical Suggestions

• Festival Tithe: Save money to rejoice during feast days.
• Charity Tithe: Support local charities, homeless shelters, etc.
• Ministry Tithe: Ministries could tithe to support "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40).

Addressing Questions and Concerns

• Tithing should not be seen as replacement theology.
• Tithes are given to Yahweh, not directly to Levites; applied today by supporting ministries.
• Encourage support for local congregations as a priority.

Conclusion

• Tithing today is not literal but a spiritual principle to support ministries.
• Encourage prayerful consideration on how to apply the principle.
• Aim to glorify God through giving and supporting His work.

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• If led to support, visit testeverything.net for more information.
• Continue to test everything and seek the truth.