Is it biblical for Christians to pay tithes? (Part 2 of 2): MCGI Topic Review

In this final part of Brother Eli Soriano’s teaching on whether Christians should pay tithes we have a powerful conclusion that will challenge our traditional views on tithing in the Christian faith. As we listen to his words let us reflect how this will change our understanding of giving in our spiritual life.

Brother Eli asks a question: “What does salvation mean to you?” This is the foundation of his entire message and will make us to think deeply on our salvation and its implications on our financial practices as believers.

In a nutshell his message is: “As Christians we don’t pay anything. Salvation is free but we can give to help the work of salvation.” This will challenge our traditional view of tithing as a commandment for Christians and will make us to see that salvation is grace based and giving is voluntary.

Brother Eli then goes into the theological basis of this view by discussing the priesthood of Jesus Christ. He said that unlike the Levitical priests who were limited by death, Jesus has a perpetual priesthood. This change in priesthood, according to Brother Eli, requires a change in the law including the law on financial contributions.

Then the teaching goes to the New Testament model of giving. Brother Eli cites 2 Corinthians 9:7 which says “cheerful giving according to what he purposed in his heart”. He said this is the biblical way of Christians to support the work of salvation not through a fixed percentage but through freewill offerings given cheerfully.

To illustrate this principle Brother Eli shares the example of the Macedonian churches in 2 Corinthians 8:1-5. Despite of their poverty they gave generously and willingly even beyond their means. This is to show that Christian giving is not about meeting a quota but about the heart’s intention.

As we listen to this final part of Brother Eli’s teaching let us be challenged to re-evaluate our giving. Instead of focusing on a fixed percentage he encourages us to give as we purpose in our hearts without grudging or compulsion. This will show us the freedom we have in Christ and the trust God has in the heart of genuine believers to support His work.

Brother Eli’s conclusion will make us to examine our own attitude towards giving. Are we giving out of obligation or joy? Do we see our contributions as a burden or as a privilege to be part of God’s work? This teaching will make us to give as an expression of our gratitude for the free gift of salvation we received.

So this last part of Brother Eli Soriano’s message reminds us that our giving should come from a heart changed by God’s grace. Not a requirement but responding to God’s love with gladness. As we meditate on these truths may we find joy in supporting the work of salvation, giving freely and gladly as we purpose in our hearts.