Question:  Greg,

            I have an associate minister in my church that is “gung ho” on tithing, and reads Malachi 3 every chance that she gets.  There have been people who have tried to tell her to stop (she’s heavy into the “faith movement”).  We have also tried to point her to biblical giving based on 2 Corinthians 8 and 9.  What should I do?

Answer:  Dear Jeff,

            It seems that your associate pastor is not making the appropriate distinction between the old covenant requirement of tithing and the New Testament command to give.  Christians are not required to give a specific percentage of their income.  Christians are, however, commanded to give, as God has blessed them, as responsible stewards of their time, talents and treasures.

            We have a booklet titled, “Facing Your Financial Problems” that gives more details.  While it is not a definitive treatment of the topic of tithing, we do have a number of questions and answers at the end of the booklet that may be helpful to you. 

            If you would like a copy, send us a postal address where we can send the booklet to you.

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht