Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore, let us go forth to him outside the camp, bearing his reproach. For we have no continuing city here, but we seek one to come.
Select a thought to read by choosing a collection, the month, and then the day:
God commanded His people to support financially those whom He anoints to minister to them. When He revealed to His people that ten percent of their increase (the "tithe") was His and must be given to His servants, along with the several offerings that He required as well, He was not negotiating a position. He was not trying to strike a deal with His people, demanding ten percent, but really hoping to get His people to agree to "donate" five percent of their increase. God's words are pure and true. He means exactly what He says, no more and no less. We are so used to dealing with liars on this earth that it takes faith to believe that God means exactly what He says.
Some of God's children do what Jesus said that he hates most. They try to find some middle ground between obeying God and disobeying God. They don't have the faith to bring God all the tithe that belongs to Him, but they are ashamed to give nothing. So, they give just enough to mollify their aching conscience and maintain appearances. But that "middle ground" is the worst of all choices. It would be better if they simply refused to obey God and gave nothing than for them to give just a part of what He has commanded. That amounts to nothing more than "tipping" God, as if He were our servant and we are doing Him a favor by flipping Him a buck or two at our convenience. God is not a struggling waiter, forced to take whatever tip we choose to leave on the table. Some of us may pride ourselves on being bigger tippers than others, but if what we bring to God is not our tithes and offerings, we are still thieves, no matter how big a tip we leave.
My friends, Jesus wants us either to be hot or cold. He would prefer that we either obey God's commandment and bring Him all our tithes and offerings, or just admit to ourselves that we are sinners and go away and leave Him alone. It is sinful to give God's anointed servants a "contribution" now and then. It is sin to bring God $300.00 when our tithe is $600.00. It is stubbornness and rebellion, and it is unacceptable with God because He is not negotiating for five per cent when He demands the tenth part of our increase.
Do not be foolish. If you will not bring God all His tithes and offerings, please don't insult Him by "donating" some money to His work. Jesus doesn't need our pity, and He has never expected that his servants live on the charity of disobedient, covetous saints.