tithes

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Well...(my $.02)

Not everyone Paul was writing to in the NT had a tradition of paying tithes
to God (like the Hebrews did) as they were Pagans before being exposed to
Christianity (like the Greeks, etc.).  Scriptures quoted from the book of
Hebrews concerning tithes are appropriate to *that* audience because they
already had a tradition of paying a certain amount to the "church" (lack of
better term).  In fact, the word "tithe" cannot be found in ANY of Paul's
letters *except* his letter to the Hebrews (chapter 7:5-9) [and even
mentioning that, Paul was only speaking of the tithe as an illustration, it
was not his main point].

Think about it...a Corinthian or a Galatian of this time would have no idea
what he was talking about.

So...are we - who also are NOT of Hebrew descent, but are Gentiles saved by
Grace through Jesus Christ - bound somehow to the 10% rule [the Law]?  Or,
are we to follow Paul's teaching to the Corinthian (Greek/Gentile) peoples:
"But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he
which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.  Every man *according
as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give*; not grudgingly, or of
necessity [the Law]: for God loveth a cheerful giver."  (2 Cor. 9:6-7).

That, my friends, is the key...


Anneliese (drat that culture...<g>)