Jesus Christ vs the Evangelical Tithe

Jesus Christ vs the Evangelical Tithe

# 28: Paul: “We are not, as so many, peddling the word of God.” The “peddling” of God’s word has become a gigantic industry within evangelicalism. What do the words of Jesus – “Freely you have received, freely give” – mean to salaried pastors, to book writers, to songwriters, to many travelling preachers and teachers, to salaried denominational officers? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

Love-of-money is a polluted river flowing unhindered throughout every religion. It is the driving catalyst that created and promotes the illicit evangelical tithe. Love-of-money (and love of power that money purchases) raises funds for millions of unsanctioned (mostly vacant) buildings throughout evangelicalism.

Paul: “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” This invasive love that found residence within many hearts replaced, to varying degrees, love for Jesus…. which eventuates piercing “themselves with many sorrows”. (Jesus: “You have left your first love.”)

Paul: “Let each one give as he purposes in his heart.” Don’t give as others purpose in their heart. Be individually guided by the Holy Spirit. (Jesus: “He will guide you into all truth.”)