90 Day Giving Challenge

"What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." - A.W. Tozer

Q & A on Tithing

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What is Tithing? 

In the Bible, Abraham began the tradition of giving the first tenth of his resources to God 4000 years ago (Genesis 14:20). “Tithe” literally means a “tenth part” or 10%. This tradition of giving God the first tenth (the first fruits) of income was carried forward in the Law of Moses. God promises great blessing upon those who follow this practice (Proverbs 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10). The tradition of giving, and often beyond the prescribed 10%, continued into the New Testament period with the early church (Acts 2:44-45; 2 Corinthians 9:7-14).

Why should my tithe go to the local Church?

In the Old Testament, the tithes were brought to the Temple or cities where the Levites lived in order to support the needs and ministries of the priests (Numbers 18:23-25). Today, the tithe supports the pastors and local churches where people come to worship God and participate in ministry with the community of believers.

What is the difference between tithes & offerings?

An offering is any amount over and above your 10% tithe (first fruits) that you believe God has prompted you to give. This could be for the church’s support of local or international missions’ organizations, feeding, clothing, and housing the poor, disaster relief, or to help end sex slavery, to name a few examples.

What is the best way for me to give my tithes and offerings?

Make it automatic (1 Corinthians 16:2)! One can systematically give online at: www.lighthousepa.org/give/ or make transfer arrangements with your local bank. You can also use the pre-printed envelopes and place them in the offering bucket as they are passed during services each weekend.

Should I Tithe Net or Gross?

The tithe should be calculated upon the full income, and not after taxes have been removed. The Bible teaches the principle of “first fruits” (Proverbs 3:9). Give to God first and your best. You cannot out give God. Tithing positions you for blessing (Proverbs 3:10). God deserves our full first fruits.

How should my tithing be characterized?

Cheerful: “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).”
Systematic: “On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made (1 Corinthians 16:2).”
Generous: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously (2 Corinthians 9:6).”

When should my children start tithing?

We recommend that parents utilize Financial Peace Junior by Dave Ramsey, which is for kids ages 3-12. They will learn age-appropriate money principles of saving, giving and spending, including the principle of tithing.

What is the 90 - day challenge?

Tithe for 90 days. Giving God back our first fruits is the only area of our lives where God invited us to “test” him (Malachi 3:10). Go ahead and test God with your tithe. Trust God with your finances and see how He blesses you and your family. When the 90-day challenge has been completed, then let Pastor Paul know how God provided for your needs during that time: pastorpaul@lighthousepa.org

Let us know if you decide to take the 90 - Day Challenge!