Discribeple

Tithing predated the Mosaic law.

• Genesis 18:20; 28:22

The law proscribed 3 tithes:

• One to support the priests
• One to support
  • Deut. 14
• One to support the poor
  • Deut. 14
  • Plus poor laws re: grain, loan forgiveness, temple laws, etc.

• Debate over whether those were cumulatively 10% or 23⅓%, but regardless it always more than just 10% in total
• Plus freewill offerings
  • Lev. 16; Exodus 25

Where the Old Testament requires certain gifts, the New Testament focuses on the heart.

1. Grace-giving begins with surrender. vv1–3

• They were willing to give.
  • Grace-givig is not pressure, but a change of heart.
    • We are naturally selfish.
  • Giving is a heart issue.

2. Grace-giving requires followthrough.

• 1 Corinthians 16:1–2
  • Told to give a little at a time—according to their abilities—consistently. They didn't let it build up, and they didn't just give what they felt like.
• Yet not made out of obligation, but it is an expression and fulfillment of our love for Him.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:8–9
    • Paul didn't preach on it out of wanting money, but for the hearers' own profit. v10
• You can't just want to give; you have to actually do it.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:11
  • Good intentions profit nothing.

3. Grace-giving is proportionate and willing. v12

• Giving should be from each according to his ability.
• You have to be realistic in what you can give.
• You have to be both willing and able.
• 2 Corinthians 9:6–7
• 2 Corinthians 8:13
  • When we slack on giving, it burden others to make up for us.
• When our hearts are right, the rest will flow naturally.
• Our giving is a reflection of and a response to Christ's love and giving to us.