Giving it to the man?

There are things you can do with your money that go beyond tithing. Sponsoring a child through an organization is just one such example. It may also be buying food for a food bank, or helping a person out who needs it. One question that sticks in my mind, however, is can it take the place of tithing? If you were to ask my dad, he would say no, but then again, I’m not much for just believing what I’m told (sorry dad).

The purpose of the church, I think, is to be Christ on earth. I also believe that each and every one of us is the church. So, I’m the church, you’re the church. Get the idea? It’s not a group of three or more person, but a person by themselves.

If we think of it this way, then we should be Christ on earth (what a role to live up to, eh?). And if we’re the church, and we’re supposed to tithe money to the church, then who do we really give the money to?

The establishment?

Or us?

Or the food bank?

Or someone who needs help?

Way back in the beginning when tithing first started, it was created so that the priests would have something to live on (Numbers 18:24). The tithe was brought in cows and grains so that the Levites could eat. We have to remember, however, that the law was fulfilled (not destroyed but brought to full purpose) when Jesus came. Because of this, we also have to look at what happened in the New Testament concerning tithe.

Acts 4:34-35; For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales and lay them at the apostles’ feet, and they would be distributed to each as any had need. I want to first note that it doesn’t say brought before the church, but brought before the apostles’ feet. Next, I want you to see that the stuff wasn’t just used to help out the apostles, but also people around that needed help. The fulfilled part of tithing is that it not only pays the priest, it also helps people out.

Now, apply that to today’s church. Tithe is meant to pay the staff, and also help the community.

I want you to know that I don’t know which way it should go. I’m not going to give you a definite answer and say, “No, you should tithe then help people out,” or vice-versa. I have given you information, and I think you should determine what you believe on your own.

My decision is to always tithe first. I do, and then I sponsor a kid, and then I buy food for the food bank. Again, is this the only or right way? No. I think the important thing is to remember that the church is meant to help people, and we are the church. So our money should be used to help people.

What good is it otherwise?