Christians debate how much to give.  Some say tithe (10%); others say tithing was Old Testament only; still others say give what your conscience tells you; some give whatever is left over.  On average, Americas give 2.2% of gross national product to all types of charities.

What is your approach?  The Old Testament was simple.  If you had one hundred sheep, you gave ten to the temple (see Leviticus 27:30-34).

Tithing provided for those who served at the temple and those who depended upon charity.  And you gave offerings above that for special occasions and sins.  In the New Testament, Jesus fulfilled the law perfectly for us.  He paid our sin debt by His blood.

So, did Jesus eliminate tithing?  Hear what He said (Matthew 23:23-24

--ESV): "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.  You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel!"

The Pharisees precisely counted grains of spices to make sure they gave 10% or more.  Unfortunately, they often failed to love God and neighbor.  They neglected justice for oppressed people, failed to show mercy to sinners, and failed to love God above the things of the world.  They got the 10% right and failed the rest of religious life.

Tithing without love is sin (1 Corinthians 13:3).

What is the right approach?  Saint Paul explains (Romans 12:1-2): "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.  Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

Your time, talents and treasure are from God.  They are to be used to give glory to the name of Jesus Christ in all arenas of your life.

Give it all!  He gave it all for you.  Amen.