Question:

My question is pertaining to tithes. I would like to know on what tenth should we tithe; the gross or the net? Or what about when funds such as retirement, medical, and dental are taken out before one receives the check.

Thank you!

Crystal

Answer: Dear Crystal,

Nothing in the Bible gives any dogmatic guideline for a Christian in this matter. The New Testament bases principles of Christian stewardship upon giving and love, in fact much higher standards than those of the strict percentage commanded under the old covenant.

Love and giving as appropriate responses in Christian stewardship are morally superior and much more convicting/compelling than are mere percentages, for the Christian is asked to give of him/herself in terms of time, talents, and treasures. Christians give according to their conscience, according to how they see and believe that God has blessed them. Giving for the Christian springs from the heart.

Therefore, for the Christian, discussions about gross and net are irrelevant. I hope this helps, Crystal.

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht