The TRUTH About Tithing vs Giving

“...Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings... ⁹Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.

¹⁰Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.....” – Malachi 3:8-10 KJV

Prior to the development of this study, I experienced a death in my family – the death of my fraternal aunt, and as is custom, our family sought to celebrate her home-going with her home congregation. Upon speaking with the Pastor of the Church, he told us with as straight and serious a face as one could have, (quote) “…we will not be able to have the funeral at our church because she [my aunt] wasn’t a consistent tithe payer to the church….” He went on to say that we could “…rent the use of the church, pay the cost to have your re-pass dinner and pay all other costs to have the funeral….”

What shocked me the most in the boldness of his speech was that he acknowledged my aunt as being a life-long member of the church and was very sick for a long period of time. In other words, his care was more about the money (tithe) that was given to his church than for the life of my aunt/family.

As a result of this experience, I decided to share what I believe is the TRUTH about Biblical Giving and Tithing as we have been taught over the years. I FULLY ACKNOWLEDGE that what you will read in this study is controversial and debate-stirring material to say the least. Many churches and church groups strongly support the tithing doctrine and have practiced this tradition for manay many years (even generations). Also, I FULLY UNDERSTAND that some may strongly disagree and others may even frown upon my audacity to present an opposing view to the traditional teaching of tithing, and frankly, I'm ok with what may come as a result of reading this view.

With that said, I believe it is my DUTY to not only share the TRUTH, but to also help others to obtain the kind of FREEDOM in giving that I believe the New Testament really teaches. Therefore, I hope this will bless you and AT LEAST challenge your thinking about the teaching of “REQUIREMENT GIVING” in tithing!

Ok, here is my personal view....

If you ask any Pastor/Preacher/Teacher if we are under the Law or Grace, I believe 99.9% of them will tell you with reasonable certainty that we are under Grace. However, many of these these same men will eventually preach on the subject of tithing with STRONG Biblical conviction – a Biblical issue with ABOSOLUTELY NO REFERENCE in the New Testament AFTER the crucifixion (except for its reference to an Old Testament matter). Jesus spoke in a negative context to the Pharisees of His day about their attitude for giving. PLEASE NOTE: Jesus’ entire earthly ministry was under the Old Testament economic system until the New Covenant was established in His crucifixion.

Other than this reference by Jesus, tithing is only mentioned in the book of Hebrews, and that NOT to explain nor command the Old Testament REQUIREMENT.  Despite this fact, every preacher I’ve ever heard preach on the subject reverts from Grace to the Law.

From the Bible, direction concerning the Law versus Grace:

“…For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ….” John 1:17

“…The law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more….” Romans 5:20

“…For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace….” Romans 6:14

“…I do not set aside the grace of God; for IF righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain….” Galatians 2:21

“…You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be JUSTIFIED BY LAW; you have fallen from grace….” Galatians 5:4

Just as it should be, we are to preach salvation by the grace of our Lord and His mercy through faith, not deeds of the law. This is what brings us salvation! And yet when it comes to money, GRACE is thrown to the wind and the law invariably gets reintroduced.

How many of us are drilled with the Biblical scare tactic: “...Will a man rob God?...” (Malachi 3:8). How many are told you’re stealing from God if you don’t give ten percent just as the Bible says? How many are taught that you will be “...cursed with a curse....” (Malachi 3:8) if you fail to tithe – EVEN if you’re down to your last dollar and about to be evicted from your home! Many preachers will tell you (REGARDLESS of your financial crisis) that GOD COMES FIRST! If you adhere to this teaching, you might become fearful that God will somehow “punish” you for “robbing Him” of His tithe? You might even give your last bit of money to the church, and later find that your utilities are being cut off or even that an eviction notice has been sent to your home!

But what does the Bible really say about this issue? Let us look at a few passages in the Old Testament first.

“...But when you cross over the Jordan and dwell in the land which the LORD your God is giving you to inherit, and He gives you rest from all your enemies round about, so that you dwell in safety, then there will be the place where the LORD your God chooses to make His name abide.  There you shall bring all that I command you: your burnt offerings, your sacrifices, your tithes, the heave offerings of your hand, and all your choice offerings which you vow to the LORD.  And you shall rejoice before the LORD your God, you and your sons and your daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levite who is within your gates, since he has no portion nor inheritance with you....” Deuteronomy 12:10-12

“...Only the holy things which you have, and your vowed offerings, you shall take and go to the place which the LORD chooses. And you shall offer your burnt offerings, the meat and the blood, on the altar of the LORD your God; and the blood of your sacrifices shall be poured out on the altar of the LORD your God, and you shall eat the meat....” Deuteronomy 12:26-27

“...You shall truly tithe all the increase of your grain that the field produces year by year.  And you shall eat before the LORD your God, in the place where He chooses to make His name abide, the tithe of your grain and your new wine and your oil, of the firstborn of your herds and your flocks, that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always. But if the journey is too long for you, so that you are not able to carry the tithe, or if the place where the LORD your God chooses to put His name is too far from you, when the LORD your God has blessed you, then you shall exchange it for money, take the money in your hand, and go to the place which the LORD your God chooses.  And you shall spend that money for whatever your heart desires: for oxen or sheep, for wine or similar drink, for whatever your heart desires; you shall eat there before the LORD your God, and you shall rejoice, you and your household. You shall not forsake the Levite who is within your gates, for he has no part nor inheritance with you....

At the end of every third year you shall bring out the tithe of your produce of that year and store it up within your gates.  And the Levite, because he has no portion nor inheritance with you, and the stranger and the fatherless and the widow who are within your gates, may come and eat and be satisfied, that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hand which you do....” Deuteronomy 14:22-29

“...When you have finished laying aside all the tithe of your increase in the third year—the year of tithing—and have given it to the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, so that they may eat within your gates and be filled, then you shall say before the LORD your God: ‘I have removed the holy tithe from my house, and also have given them to the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, according to all Your commandments which You have commanded me; I have not transgressed Your commandments, nor have I forgotten them....”  Deuteronomy 26:12-13

“...Come to Bethel, and transgress; at Gilgal multiply transgression; and bring your sacrifices every morning, and your tithes after three years....”  Amos 4:4

In Deuteronomy, and for the rest of the Old Testament, tithing is mandatory, but for the first two years it was to be spent by the one tithing and his family in the presence of the LORD – for food, for drink, for rejoicing.  Only in the third year is the tithe to be entirely given away. The only additional requirement besides spending the entire tithe on a party in the presence of the LORD for the first two years is the sentence,

“...You shall not forsake the Levite who is within your gates, for he has no part nor inheritance with you....”  

I’ve always said that if God repeats Himself in the Bible, it’s for the reason of clarity.  In this case, it mentions the “third year tithe” not once, not twice, but THREE times.

I’ve read that because of the variation between Deuteronomy and the earlier tithing requirements (such as in Leviticus). What is written in Deuteronomy concerning tithing is the standard and FURTHER DEFINES tithing where it is previously mentioned.  Here’s another example of an expounded definition in Deuteronomy from the Ten Commandments:

The 10th Commandment in Deuteronomy differs from its initial reception at Sinai:

“...You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife nor his male servant nor his female servant nor his ox nor his donkey nor anything that is your neighbor’s....”  Exodus 20:17

“...You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife; and you shall not desire your neighbor’s house, his field, his male servant, his female servant, his ox, his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor’s....” Deuteronomy 5:21

Here a “field” is added into the commandment in Deuteronomy.  During the wilderness wanderings, there was no ownership of property, but at the renewal of the covenant in Deuteronomy the change is made in anticipation of this occurrence.  Likewise, regulations concerning tithing in Deuteronomy were the standard for Israel.

Some Pastor’s teach that the “third year” is a special/extra year of tithing in addition to the regular annual 10%, never mind the fact that it NEVER says such a thing in the Bible. The passages above clearly indicate that the third year tithe alone was given away in its entirety and the other two years’ tithes were enjoyed by the giver IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD.

None of this really matters though because ALL of this comes from the law – the Old Testament.  and, as cited in verses above, we are not under the law.  The closest we can come to a general rule of thumb for giving in the New Testament is this:

“...Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come....” 1^st Corinthians 16:1-2

I do suppose that if pastors spent more time preaching the glories of the Cross, and how Christ gave His all for us, people would appreciate more where their money was going and be willing to give out of a grateful heart and NOT out of a sense of obligation – which is exactly what the law demanded.  Personally, I’d say 10% is a good starting point, but that we should give NOT based on a REQUIREMENT to do so, but how we are reflecting our appreciation to God and for HIS immeasurable gift in the person of Jesus Christ to us. This attitude is clearly proclaimed in Scripture:

“...But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.  So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver....” 2 Corinthians 9:7

Giving the New Testament Christian MUST be a matter of the heart or there is no appreciation of grace. This is where the rubber meets the road. If a pastor or teacher reads these passages in the Bible, understands them, and continues to instruct incorrectly, they have put their personal desire for financial gain above what the Bible instructs.  Error in doctrine is sin – how much worse if it is intentional!

In Deuteronomy 14:22-29 (above), tithing is clearly spelled out. The tithe (ten percent of crops and animals) was to be eaten by the tither in the place of God’s choosing (Jerusalem) and with a Levite to share in the revelry. In the third year, the tithe was to be placed in the (local) town storehouse and distributed to the alien, the widow, the orphan, and the Levite. I can not see how these God given Mosaic Law tithes reasonably translate into giving ten percent of every earning to the local church. The bulk of these tithes (as described in Deuteronomy) didn’t even go to the direct support of the local temple (church). It is also apparent that the tithe was to be from the fruit of the land (crops and animals). Nowhere in the bible is it said that the proceeds of manufactured items were to be tithed. Admittedly, they were primarily an agricultural society, but other vocations or ways to supplement a living did exist. With these “trades people” the Lord did not require tithes of an annual wage or a year’s worth of fishing, pottery, garments, or carpentry. These vocations took place back in those times and God did not ask for them to be tithed, nor did he ask for their monetary earnings to be exchanged as He did in Deuteronomy 14:25-26 (above). In fact, it could be argued that the wealthier people were more likely to tithe and NOT the poor. Those blessed (gifted) with croplands and herds tithed. It is clear God did not ask everyone to tithe on every earning, only those with crops and herds.

Tithing was under the Mosaic Law and it is the only place in the bible where it is commanded by God. As commanded, the people tithed in order to receive the promises/blessings as stated in Deuteronomy and more importantly they tithed to remember (Deuteronomy 14:23) that it was God who gave them such blessings. Some current teachers also use Malachi 3:8-10 to show that God blesses the tithe. The blessings and curses in Malachi are under the Mosaic Law. In order to receive the blessings you must follow the whole Law, not just part...

“...Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?...” Galatians 5:1-7.

The teaching that Christ sanctioned tithing beyond the covenant of the Law is contrary to the overwhelming bulk of New Testament teaching on grace. Jesus’ comments to the Pharisees in Matthew 23:23 on tithing are easily understood, and are in context, as to their position under Mosaic Law. The hypocritical way the Pharisees followed the Law was the entire context of this passage. The tithing Jesus mentioned to the Pharisees was the recognition that they were following the Law (when they were tithing) as they “should be.” Obeying the Mosaic Law was God’s command to the Jewish believers and remained so until Jesus’ sacrificial death. Following the Mosaic Law is not a religious imperative to Christian believers and is a hindrance to faith (Romans 8:3-4).

“...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone....” Matthew 23:23

“...There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh....” Romans 8:1-4

If we were to follow the “should be” to its logical conclusion, then we “should be” practicing tithing as written in the Mosaic Law. That was the true tithing that Jesus recognized and that God required under the Law. Otherwise, it is clear we stand under a new and different covenant (Hebrews 8:7-13).

“...For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away....” Hebrews 8:7-13

Our covenant rests in belief in the Lord Jesus and obeying his voice through the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14).

“...For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God....” Romans 8:14

The submission of the believer’s heart (by faith) to the Spirit of Christ will yield the only fruit that is acceptable to the Lord (Hebrews 11:6).

“...But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him....” Hebrews 11:6

The new covenant teaching in Hebrews (and Romans) should make it obvious that we are not REQUIRED to follow previous Old Covenant requirements. Nevertheless, some teachers insist that we are required to tithe in order to follow what Abraham did in faith. I would like to address a few things about Abraham and his tithe (Gen 14:17-20).

1.       Abraham received his blessing before he gave ten percent (tithed) to Melchizedek. There is no record that God REQUIRED him to do so, and some historians suggest the tithe might have been a traditional (cultural) gift to a king. The ten percent Abraham gave was clearly a freewill offering and a response to the blessing (grace) he received (Genesis 14:18-20).

“...And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all....” Genesis 14:18-20

2.      Abraham gave ten percent of the spoils of war (Hebrews 7:4). He was still on his way back home from the war when the meeting occurred (Genesis 14:17, Hebrews 7:1) and would not have had his entire fortune with Him. There is no record that Abraham made it a habit to regularly tithe from his normal income.

“...Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils....” Hebrews 7:4

“...And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that were with him, at the valley of Shaveh, which is the king's dale....” Genesis 14:17

“...For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him....” Hebrews 7:1

3.      Some teachers say we should follow Abraham in faith and therefore tithe. If being like Abraham means more than walking in faith (James 2:22-23), then maybe we should be REQUIRING the circumcising of all males. God commanded Abraham to circumcise all the men as an everlasting covenant (Genesis 17:7-10). In fact, there is a better argument for circumcision than tithing if one was to use Abraham as a focal point to follow rather than to follow as an example of faith (Romans 4:13). Except, that Paul was adamantly against required circumcision because we were free of the whole of Mosaic Law (Galatians 5:1-7).

“…Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God....” James 2:22-23

“...And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God. And God said unto Abraham, Thou shalt keep my covenant therefore, thou, and thy seed after thee in their generations. This is my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised....” Genesis 17:7-10

“...For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith....” Romans 4:13

“...Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?...” Galatians 5:1-7

So, by what reasoning does a church enforce a custom (tithing) that God did not require of Abraham, in light of the fact that God’s previously required act of circumcision is now clearly defunct? The convenient choosing and/or disregarding of the context of Abraham’s life is not a good, consistent nor interpretive practice. It is clear that there is no record of God commanding the tithe until the Mosaic Law. Any inference that Abraham’s tithe has any bearing on the New Testament church’s REQUIREMENT to tithe is at best very poor.

It is ALSO quite clear throughout the New Testament (Acts, Romans, Galatians, Hebrews, James) that the Mosaic Law was put aside because a new covenant (of grace) that came into effect after Christ’s death on the cross. The Apostle Paul was a champion of grace. Don’t you think that he would have mentioned his endorsement of tithing if this part of the Mosaic Law was carried over into the New Covenant of Grace? Paul had plenty of opportunity to carve out an exception to his standing on grace in his writings. His silence on the subject of tithing, in light of his teachings on grace, should be a deafening roar to the Church that Tithing is NOT REQUIRED; His grace is sufficient!

Since grace is unmerited favor, its truest and highest nature is shown when it is given in THE LIBERTY OF CHOICE. If grace is given with ANY condition to earn it, it is NOT grace. Regardless of our spiritual condition, the grace gifts show that God gives freely, generously, and miraculously. Giving is one of those “Grace gifts.” This (unconditional) grace which is now freely given TO US must be freely given BY US or it is NOT a true expression of God’s Grace - the very expression of Christ’s grace. The moment we place a ten percent REQUIREMENT on giving, the gift is no longer GRACE but LAW (under conditions).

The Apostle Paul stated that by following one law you come under the authority of the whole law (Galatians 5:3). We cannot conveniently carve out an exception to the law (tithing) without being trapped by the whole of it. Our NEW LAW in Christ is Liberty, not to license, but freedom to obey Christ (Galatians 5:1) and therefore to be like Him. We are either free in Christ to give freely and express our liberty (to give) before God as a reflection/expression of His grace, or we are under bondage (of law or sin). “...Freely we have received and freely [in freedom] we are to give....” Without liberty, Grace and the love it conveys is meaningless, because it is NOT an expression of a willing heart of love but one under the compulsion of LAW.

Many churches REQUIRE their members to be tithe payers. I am sure many of them do this because they feel strongly about tithing and have had some positive experiences through its results. I feel strongly about Spirit-led Grace giving. I personally EXPECT to hear the Holy Spirit talk to me about giving. I ask Him to counsel me because I am a steward of my Father’s possessions, gifts and even my own life. As a steward, these possessions are mine to invest in THROUGH HIM and in His name. I will be held fully responsible and accountable for all that He has given me and I’ll be rewarded according to my faithfulness to Him and what He has given me. If I give one percent or one-hundred percent, God will not judge by the flesh (law) but by the heart of the giver (Luke 12:34).

“...For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also....”

Under the New Covenant not all of us are gifted the same (Romans 12:4-6). Paul likens the church to a body. He says each of us has a measure of spiritual gifts to contribute in order to make the body work as a whole. REQUIRED giving ignores the fact that our gifting is disparate. Each person is gifted differently!

“...For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith....” Romans 12:4-6

We leave out the poor (or those less gifted to give) to the peril and health of the church when we REQUIRE ten percent to be a member of a church or even to be a “faithful Christian.” For everyone to give ten percent annually in order to join a church wasn’t even required by God in the Old Testament. Such a standard in a church gives preference and the seat of honor to the financially blessed, and leaves poorer people to a second-class citizenship in the house of God (James 2:1-5). Verse 5 states that the poor are often rich in faith. Personally, I would first rather be in a house rich in faith, along with having the GIFTING to take that rich faith to the nations.

“...My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him....” James 2:1-5

There is a grace war and it is still going on. This war began at the very beginning of the New Testament Church (Acts 15:1-29) and two thousand years later we are still at it. Our heritage of Grace is being challenged. It’s a real shame that there are Christians out there who still think that following Old Testament Law will lead us to righteousness and promote a greater blessing from God.

The Apostle Peter challenges us to grow in grace (2Peter 3:18). As we need air, water, food, and a temperate environment, so does the Spirit of Truth need an environment of Grace in order to mature within us. Grace provides the optimal growing environment for God’s truth, and without grace there is very little (if any) opportunity or provision for change or a changed life.

“...But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ....” 2Peter 3:18

In contrast to grace, following the Law stunts our growth by placing us in a position to teeter between self-righteousness and condemnation. One moment we are proud we can fulfill the REQUIREMENT and the next moment we condemn ourselves or are condemned by Church Leaders for our inability to meet it. Once condemned, we then try harder to do better (or we give up), only to fail because there is ABOSOLUTELY NO POWER in the Law to save. We wind up vacillating between two positions of powerlessness both rooted in ourselves. A primary cause of this teeter-totter effect is unbelief in our reliance on Grace and this unbelief stunts our growth. If our hearts are compelled to rely on the law or our own adequacy then our faith is compromised at the root. We are relying on powerless sources, the Law or ourselves (Romans 8:3). When we try to rely on both law and grace we are being double-minded and the faith behind our prayers becomes ineffectual.

“...For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh....” Romans 8:3

Continually living the Spirit-led life is the only way to combat this effect. In every arena of life the Spirit must lead and this includes the way we give. Otherwise, we succumb to unbelief in the power and availability of His grace. Do we think that the Grace Gifts can be effectually ministered under any other spirit other than the Spirit of Grace? With these gifts we confront the world with the unmerited Grace of Jesus Christ.

This finally leads to what I think about giving. Here is the very short version:

I am not my own. I have been bought by Christ for a price. Since I am not my own, everything I am and own is His. Since everything is His, I am then a steward of my Father’s possessions. Many of Jesus’ teachings revolved around being stewards and stewardship. I will be held responsible for how I invest His gifts and will be rewarded accordingly. Unbelief in this area will be severely judged by Christ (Matthew 25:25-30). To give freely is the nature of Christ. Since the Spirit of Christ indwells me, I therefore expect to hear from Him on how and how much to give. Personally, this has been one of the primary ways the Spirit has trained my ear to hear His voice.

“...And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth....” Matthew 25:25-30

One last point about the “curse” that many Pastors teach as the “punishment” for NOT tithing: The Apostle Paul stated in Galatians 3:13...

“...Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree....”

It is clear from this passage that Jesus’ crucifixion nullified the curse of the Law and my inability to fulfill it. Period! Enough said! Thank God for Jesus!

In conclusion, I just don’t understand how a New Testament church can biblically argue that God REQUIRES that everybody should give a ten percent (tithe) when the Bible shows differently. I will agree that some people are called (by the Spirit) to give ten percent, but the required tithe many teachers and churches support DOES NOT realistically reflect any biblical command. Maybe required tithing is a noble intention, but it is a REQUIRED manmade nonetheless. I think it is misleading and at a root level fosters unbelief in Grace. Giving is a pillar to living Christ-like, but its foundation must rest SOLELY as a freewill unmerited Gift of Grace as given to us through Jesus Christ our Lord!

“...Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver....” 2^nd Corinthians 9:7

Grace & Peace,

Roc

The Virtuous Woman!

*** PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A STUDY FOR MEN & WOMEN ***

“…Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is far above rubies….” Proverbs 31:10

There is a huge difference between “a woman’s ability” and “a woman’s value.” Many people judge (perhaps I should say “misjudge”) women by evaluating what they do. However, what a woman does can not compare with who a woman really is! Moreover, a “virtuous woman” is something that is so special that she is essentially too difficult to comprehend within the human experience.

First of all, true “virtue” is not something that human beings can really understand. It is not merely a condition that is readily available to just anyone. In addition, it is not something I even identify with, because I’ve never seen it before (outside of God showing it to me). While “virtue” is essentially human ability, strength and force (from the Hebrew word Chayil – khah-yil) , it is also spiritual efficiency, wealth and substance that is super-naturally contained. How? Well, this word comes from the Hebrew root, "Chuwl – khool" which is to twist, travail, be pained, made to bear and to bring forth. Furthermore, this word has a deeper meaning that is often missed in study. It also means to DANCE.

What an awesome revelation! The proverb writer asks, “…who can find a VITUOUS woman….” Yet, the virtue that he asks about can’t be found humanly, because it is “super-naturally contained.” Therefore, this question becomes “rhetorical” in essence and not humanly answerable. There is still something to be answered though… This “virtue” is also something that is “made to bear in the woman” by travail, pain, and dancing. Dancing? Oh but dancing is a great part of this virtue, because the “virtuous woman” has the kind of ability to take pain and pleasure at the same time. She will contain joy though her situation is grievous. She will dance when others may think she should be crying!

I love what this verse communicates next. “…her price is far above rubies….” The word “price” here is the Hebrew word, Meker – (meh-ker) which essentially means value that transcends humanity and spiritually certified. WOW! The “value” of the virtuous woman is so awesome that it far exceeds humanity. This also says to me that I can not see it with my own human faculties. The only thing that I (in my human experience) can identify with this value is “rubies” (today we might say diamonds, choice gold, platinum, or something else of the highest price). However, we use these “things of human value” because this is ONLY what we can identify with. Oh but this value of the virtuous woman has a value that far exceeds the “rubies” I can identify with.

I am therefore happy in Jesus that when God shows men the woman that HE has made virtuous, HE also shows us something that man had NOTHING to do with whatsoever! It is God who takes this awesome, valuable, and virtuous woman and places her in an environment whereby she can share all her power, skill and life for the production of other people. This is why the Proverb writer said, “…her children will rise up and call her blessed; her husband also and he praises her….” (verse 28) Saints, this is the kind of woman every man needs (beyond his wants). This is the kind of woman who might even intimidate other (less desirable) men!

“…Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that fears the LORD, she shall be praised….” Proverbs 31:30

Grace & Peace!
Roc

The Secret Place!

“…He that dwells in THE SECRET PLACE of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.…” Psalms 91:1

It seems that every time I read this verse I get a sense of God’s overwhelming comfort in my life. Quite frankly, this is one of the more popular verses in Christiandom altogether, especially when referring to prayer, worship or some sort of divine protection from God (and rightfully so). The “secret place” should indeed be known (and experienced) as the place of refuge, prayer and worship, but as we look further into the spirit of the text, we should find even more.

Many of us already know (at least to a workable degree) what the secret place is, but I dare not guess how many of us truly understand what it takes to experience the secret place. When the Psalmist speaks here about the secret place, the first requirement he gives is the necessity to dwell there! Now, of course we know that “dwelling” here is to live, remain or make an abode. However, the Hebrew root for dwell, “Yashab” (yaw-shab) is that which denotes deifying the place in which you remain. In other words, you live in the secret place because it is unlike any other place and therefore causes you to view it as deity.

In addition to this truth about the Hebrew root “Yashab”, there is another truth that awesome to understand. Dwelling here also signifies a divine (or deified) invitation to dwell that is offered through the reward of diligence. In other words, I can’t enter the secret place of my own accord. The shocking truth is that prayer, worship, and even Christian service in and of themselves can’t get me there. Even with all of these responsible acts, I still have to be invited, and this “invitation” is NOT given to anyone! It is a reward of those who are rewarded for their diligence. Many pray, but are NOT diligent. Many worship, and are NOT diligent. Many do wonderful “Christian” acts, but are NOT diligent. The Apostle Paul even said that some may do good works without having love. So then, the inference of this in continuation is that my remaining there [dwelling] is hinged upon the fulfillment of diligence. If I am no longer diligent, then my invitation for habitation is forfeited.

Now Saints, this truth begs the question: Do I “merit” my way into the secret place? A sound understanding of the word “dwell” (Yashab) Psalm 91:1 will cause us to know that our view of this place [as deity] impacts us in a way that causes action, motivation and service. Secondly, the secret place is NOT ours to demand. It is owned by El-Elyon [the Most High]. El-Elyon is the God who is not only high (exalted), but who also rules. He is God in complete control and has full ownership of what He is in control of.

Finally, the Psalmist says that when I am in this secret place, I will “abide under His shadow”, which is different from dwelling (although similar in their essence). Abide in the Hebrew is the word, “Luwn” (loon), which is lodging through night or dark seasons (also dark times, events, places, etc), which is a metaphoric reference to evil suffering. Notice though, that we are abiding in a dark place that is good for us (under His shadow) from a dark place that is harmful for us (hardships, evil suffering, etc). WOW! What thought provoking truth!

Ok, let us look at all we have seen thus far. The secret place is that which I view as a place of deity, yet it is a place that is (both) dark for my good and dark to keep from evil suffering. However, it is NOT a place that I can go on my own, no matter how much I pray, do good deeds, worship, or any other seemingly good thing. It is essentially the welcome of God into a place that He has designed as a gift for those who have shown a faithful consistency in seeking His refuge. Do you really want to be in the Secret Place? How much do you really want it?

“…But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a REWARDER of them that diligently seek him….” Hebrews 11:6

Grace & Peace,
Roc

The Effectual Fervent Prayer!

“… The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.….” James 5:16

In the early years of my Christian experience, I was often confused about what real praying was all about. One of the more overused phrases in the church today is “I’ll pray for you” or “pray for me.” This is a phrase that seems to get us out of conversational discomforts, and leaves many of us responsively speechless when it is said to us. Quite frankly, it has become a fictitious statement for many people who will tell you “I’ll pray for you”, but will never do it! It makes us sound “spiritual” and even “caring”, yet our follow-through is often lacking when it comes to really praying. I am one who is STILL learning the ART of effective praying. God seems to show me more and more about prayer that challenges my life, my commitments and my personal discipline. Jesus said in Luke 18:1 “…men aught always to pray and not to faint….” Our text is a passage that is often quoted when referring to prayer, but hopefully we can really understand what it is saying to us with respect to prayer…especially for each other.

Dealing with only the “B” portion of this text, the verse declares that the effectual fervent prayer is what “avails” for us. Effectual & Fervent here are essentially the same words in Greek. Fervent is the word Energeo (en-erg-eh-o), which is where the English word “Energy” is derived. It means to be operative, moving forward, be at work for one in aid, to put forth power and activity that is focused on results and accomplishment. It also signifies to remain operable, complete and to overcome. The word Prayer here is the Greek in compound form, Deesis (deh-ay-sis), from Deomai (deh-om-ahee) & Deo (deh-o), which means to long for, desire, entreat to God with a passion for binding together, to be tied to, fasten or bound as with chains, to put under a legal obligation to seek out, discover or take on a serviceable duty.

Let us look at this (briefly): The effectual fervent prayer! This is the kind of praying that causes us to make ourselves available to people beyond mere words of comfort. It causes us to become ACTIVE for the one whom we are praying for. It seeks results and will NOT stop until the focus is completed, accomplished and maintained. Furthermore, the effectual fervent prayer is one that causes me to become so passionate for your causes/issues that I literally & spiritually become attached, fixed to and a companion of your concerns. In fact, I willfully put myself under a legally binding obligation to do something that will ensure your triumph! Saints, this is praying!

Oh, but wait a minute. The verse says something else. It says that this prayer is prayed by a Righteous man (mankind)! This is the Greek, Dikaios (dik'-ah-yos), which is one who consciously, willfully and completely yielded to observe divine instruction, approved of God and acceptable for the rendering of spiritual service. It also signifies those who prides themselves (NOT who is proud) on being virtuous, rectified in heart, and conformed to spiritual wholeness. In other words, this is one who loves to live for God and is completely yielded to HIS service.

Finally, this verse concludes that an effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man AVAILS MUCH! These two words (in Greek) essentially say the same things. Avail is the word Ischuo (is-khoo-o), which is to be strong, have power as shown in extraordinary deeds, to become forceful, prevailing and whole. Also to become beneficial in service,and to overcome. Much is the word, Polus (pol-oos), which means large, magnified, many, overflowing, great and overwhelming. Therefore Saints, our praying is that which is greatly connected to our actions, and the part of us that is willfully attached to the one for which we are praying, but through God. Thus, our attachment is really to God as HE is attached to the one we are praying for. Are you really praying for someone? What are you DOING to ensure that your prayers become EFFECTUALLY FERVENT?

“…For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith….” 1st Thessalonians 3:9-10

Grace & Peace,
Roc

The Repentance of God?

“…God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do It, or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?...”

Numbers 23:19....

The idea of our God “repenting”may suggest that He has done “wrong” or has made some kind of “mistake” in the same way of mere human beings. If this were true, it would be a MAJOR problem in accepting the teachings of Divine Deity. However, the scriptures are completely TRUE in all that it teaches without any contradictions whatsoever. Our problem is in understanding Biblical Hermeneutics (Biblical interpretation) in grasping the truth of the scriptures.

First of all, when we see the word “Repent” in scripture, it can have several different meanings in the Hebrew language, Greek and in Aramaic. There are several passages in the Bible that will show God “repenting”, but this repenting is NOT the same “repenting” that Jesus preached in the New Testament.

The word “Repent” in Hebrew is Nacham (naw-kham) and it has several different uses. Its like English having different tenses. One use of this Hebrew word is called the “Niphal usage” (Ne-fall) which means to be moved to pity, have compassion, to extend favor or a better course of action, to extend graciousness, and to extend good or a better benefit.

Another usage of the Hebrew word Nacham is called the Hithpael usage (hith-pay-el) which means to regret, be sorry for, turn from self, and to change. It important to note, that this usage has reference to an action and a change in character as resulting from the action. In other words, if God were to repent in this manner, he would NOT be God at all! It would automatically indicate that God changes in his character. This is NOT true of Him!

“…For I am the LORD, I change not….” Malachi 3:6

The word “Change” here is the Hebrew word, Shanah (shaw-naw) which means to transmute (alter in form, appearance, or nature), to do or speak double, to perform a second time (as to fix the first).

How many times do we as parents set out to chasten our children with the rod of correction, but decide to lessen the punishment due to our own feelings of compassion for our children? This doesn’t mean that we have not or will not correct them, but it does mean that our course of action will not be as severe as originally intended. In this instance, our children have found our grace, and we were moved to pity them (which is same as finding a greater sense of our love, compassion and mercy).

“…Like as a father pity’s his children, so the LORD pity’s them that fear him…” Psalm 103:13

Now let me make a few more important points about this subject that has blessed me….

We first see God (seemingly) “repenting” in Genesis 6. It was in this chapter that God was grieved with the sin that was in the earth. In verse 6, it is recorded that “…God repented that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart….”

The next time we see this kind of “repenting” of God is in Exodus 32. It was in this chapter where the Children of Israel (being influenced by Aaron) built a golden image to worship as their god, instead of the God who just brought them out of the land of bondage/Egypt. When God thought to destroy them in their wickedness, Moses sought for the Lord’s pardoning. In Verse 14, the Bible said, “…And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people. …”

We see this in other passages as well (Judges 2:11-23; 1st Samuel 15:10-35; 2nd Samuel 24:10-25; Amos 7:1-10; Jonah 3:1-10; Jeremiah 15:1-7), however, it is important to notice that in each of these passages God is disturbed by the interruption in relationship, as well as grieved by the actions resulting in the breakdown in the relationship. God in ALL of these passages was ALWAYS seeking a relationship to share HIS Divine Nature. Furthermore, it is a RELATIONSHIP (as depicted in an INTERCESSORY conversation/prayer) that causes Him to change his course of action in EVERY Biblical account. To prove this point, I’ll use the passages we just look at.

In Genesis 6, we see that it was the actions of God’s creation toward HIM that grieved him. God was seeking (in the preceding verses) a relationship with His people, but (in Verse 5) we read about the breakdown in relationship ….

“…And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually….”

However, it was another relationship that causes God to change His course of action. In verse 7 we see that God decided to destroy the ENTIRE creation (ENTIRE, would have included EVERYONE an EVERYTHING), but in verses 8-9 we read about the relationship that would cause God to change His course of action….

“…But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD… Noah was a just man and perfect in his generation, and Noah walked with God….”

Noah’s relationship with God was such that it appealed to another aspect of God’s nature: His Mercy! It was through the life of Noah that God replenished the earth and used him to complete His purpose.

In Exodus 32, we see how the Children of Israel had turned from God to build and worship another god, and it wasn’t until then that God decided to destroy ALL of them. In verse 10, God told Moses….

“…Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them….”

However, in verses 11-14 the Bible shows the INTERCESSORY relationship that would cause God to change His course of action….

And Moses besought the LORD his God, and said, LORD, why doth thy wrath wax hot against thy people, which thou hast brought forth out of the land of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand?... Turn from thy fierce wrath, and REPENT of this evil against thy people…Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, thy servants, to whom thou swore by thine own self, and said unto them, I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have spoken of will I give unto your seed, and they shall inherit it for ever… And the LORD REPENTED of the evil which he thought to do unto his people….”

These passages teach us several very IMPORTANT principles about God. One, His FIRST objective with ALL of us is for a RELATIONSHIP whereby we can learn and experience HIS Divine Nature. Secondly, it is due to our own actions toward God which causes Him to deal with us according to the part of His nature that we are appealing to. If our actions are contrary to what He demands from us, then we appeal to His wrath (which is a part of His Nature). God is as much a God of wrath as He is a God of Love. If our actions are pleasing to Him, then we appeal to other aspects of His Nature (love, mercy, healing, provision, etc).

Thirdly, I have found a greater significance and importance to the need for INTERCESSORY PRAYER!!! Christians EVERYWHERE should come to know the difference between “Prayer” and “Intercession.” In short, one could pray but NOT necessarily be interceding (which is not a bad thing, but it is also not a good long-term practice). The Apostle Paul said in his first letter to Timothy….

“…I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, INTERCESSIONS, and giving of thanks, be made for all men….” 1st Timothy 2:1

While “intercession” is also praying, it is NOT the form of prayer that is “self-focused”, but seeks the attention of God on behalf of another person, people, community, country, etc.

The word “Intercession”, is the Greek word Enteuxis (ent'-yook-sis) which means to fall in with, agree with, and to come together for a discourse (or conversation… with God) or for any other active cause.

This is NOT mere “Praying” as most of us do from day to day, which is the Greek word Proseuche (pros-yoo-khay) which is a solitary conversation addressed to God, a place set a part for solitude, consolation, privacy, the offering of personal value, the place of sanctuary, rest, covering, and comfort. Please note that this word indicates a place where we are alone, on behalf of ourselves alone, and with God alone.

Now, I am NOT communicating this as a “bad” place to be. We ALL should be in prayer for ourselves, if nothing more than to develop our keenness for the voice and nature of God in our own lives. However, the deeper and more corporately productive place is in the place of INTERCESSION, where I “fall in and agree with” the lives of other Saints – a place where I come together with other people, communities and regions to have a conversation with God on OUR behalf (not just my own behalf). This is also the place where we come together for other ACTIVE causes of intercession (like outreach efforts, helping someone out of a crisis, etc).

Finally, God will ALWAYS perform according to what His nature calls for, but WE as INTERCESSORS can beckon God to change His course action (repent) by how we appeal to another part of His Nature. Therefore, let us ALL come together and INTERCEDE one for another!

“…And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor….” Isaiah 59:16

“…Who is he that condemns? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us….” Romans 8:34

Grace & Peace
Roc

The Power of Forgiveness!

“…and whenever you stand, praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive them that your Father in Heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in Heaven forgive you your trespasses….” Mark 11:25-26

If there is one area in the construction of personal character that is most impactful on the human experience, it would argue that the application of forgiveness is that area. Perhaps one might even agree that issues of forgiveness have been prevalent since the beginning of human civilization itself. I personally content that forgiveness is not merely a “Christian” or “religious” issue. I believe it is a human issue – a problem that exists in the “soul of man”, meaning that it is housed in our emotional/cognitive state.

Issues of forgiveness are not only powerful in nature, but also potentially damaging to all that is naturally beneficial to our experience of living. The impact of forgiveness is also mutual, in that, it has lasting/even eternal effect on the recipient as well as on its giver. In a companion study on the topic of “offenses” (and the dangers of them), I was able to understand the spiritual dynamics of how issues of forgiveness develops within the soul of man.

First, the Word of God says, “…Great peace have they which love thy law, and nothing shall OFFEND them….” Psalm 119:165 In this verse, the Hebrew word translated “offend” is he word, Mikshowl (mik-shole) which means the occasion of increased stumbling, a stumbling fortress, strengthening & protection of stumbling. In other words, if we are not in love with God’s law (or simply pleasing God with our lives), those who “offend” us (whom we have not truly forgiven) have also helped us to hurt ourselves even more than the offense itself. Furthermore, we will hold on to the offense in such a way as to “protect” it and strengthen its power within us for future “occasions” where the same offense could cause us to stumble even more.

So then, the questions become highlighted here: What is truly forgiving an offense? And secondly, have we truly forgiven that offense? The reality of forgiveness is relationally two-fold, meaning, not only should one forgive, but the offender should (and frankly must) seek to be forgiven. Before I continue, I need to pause to elaborate a point about humanistic processes of “forgiveness application” in order to set up the true meaning and application of forgiveness.

As you (hopefully) may know, many people say and even attempt to convince themselves that they have truly “forgiven” an offense, but in reality they have not. In fact, the deceptive statement that we usually hear is “…I have forgiven, but I haven’t forgotten….”, which is supposed to mean that the offense will NOT have any additional impact upon them beyond the initial offense itself. The truth of this statement is that the offense continues to live in your mind/memory. As we see the TRUE meaning and application of forgiveness, I’m sure that you’ll find something new about this human application of forgiveness.

In our foundation text for this study (Mark 11:25 NKJV), the Bible says,

“…and whenever you stand, praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive them that your Father in Heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in Heaven forgive you your trespasses….”

The word translated “forgive” in this passage is the word “Aphiemi” (af-ee-ay-mee). Its important to note that Jesus did not speak Greek, but Aramaic. With that understanding, the Aramaic and Greek Words here are identical in their meaning because of the application reference from which it is derived. First, the meaning of this word: To send away, to forsake, let go and let die, to suffer, cry or put away. This meaning is seen in application when the High Priest takes a lamb into the wilderness to use as a sacrifice to atone for the sins of the people. In this instance, the High Priest places blood on the head of the lamb, then sends the lamb away into the wilderness to die (kills by its predators) carrying with it, the sins of the people. This was a traditional practice of the High Priest for the atonement of sins. Let’s look at another application of forgiveness.

Luke 6:37 (NKJV) says, “…forgive and you shall be forgiven….”

The word in this passage is a different word, “Apoluo” (ap-ol-oo-o) which means to release, dismiss, put away or divorce. This application carries the inference that an offense has attached itself to you and/or become ONE with you! This application is clearly inferred from its meaning! We don’t divorce from something/someone that we have not become one with. Furthermore, if we become one with an offense, this clearly means that we have given it life. In other words, it lives because of us. We have kept it close to us and have even protected it within us!

If this is true (and it is clear that this is true), then the question becomes; how do we become ONE with an offense? Let attempt to answer this question through another companion study. I’m sure you’ll agree that the most typical (initial) response to an offense is “anger”, though not always violent anger, a human response to offenses is typically anger nonetheless. So then, what can we learn more in this study of forgiveness from the companion topic of anger?

The Bible says in Ephesians 4:26 (NASV),

“…be angry but sin not, and don’t let the sun go down on your anger [wrath]….”

It is important to understand the greek word translated “angry” here in this passage. The Greek word here is the word, “Orgizo” (or-gid-zo). It is also from this word that we get the English word “Orgy” (from the Greek root “Orge” or-gay). Yes, this is the word “Orgy” – the word we use to describe “assisted arousal of human emotion and pleasure” and/or “a corporate call for emotional arousal, pleasure and agreement”.

But wait a minute, there is another word in the passage for “Anger” and that is the word, “Parorgismos” (par-org-is-mos), which derived from two roots, “Parorgizo” (par-org-id-zo) and “Para” (par-ah). Together they form the meaning, to have desire for the pleasure [arousing] through indignation [anger], being near it, together with it, beside it, seduced by it, pleased by it and under controlling influence.

How many of us have allowed ourselves to enter fits of rage, being vengeful and retaliating against someone for an offense suffered by them? Perhaps you will fall in the category of those who say they have forgiven but have not forgotten, and believe that the memory of the first offense won’t impact upon your response should there be a second offense. The mere fact that we CHOOSE to remember automatically means that we are “pleased to remember” or “keep it close to us”. Why? Well, if we are honest, we would confess that our anger will be poured out on the person who dares to offend us in the same way again.

Let us not forget the original question: How do we become ONE with an offense? It is when we accept its call arousal/pleasure as found in our indignation. We become ONE with our offense through the processes of giving it life by NOT sending it away, putting it to death and divorcing ourselves from its attachments. Can this happen from a mere memory? Absolutely! How else?

Consider this (to elaborate further): Human beings are “triune beings”. Meaning, we are divinely constructed with three parts (just like the Godhead). We Spirit! We are Soul, and we are Body! In essence, the “Spirit” part of us is our “God Consciousness”. Through our Spirit, we are able to communicate with and become aware of Godliness. Our Soul, in essence, is our “Self-Consciousness”. It is through our Soul that we become of ourselves. This primarily our “emotional center” - our thoughts, feelings and pleasure center Our Body is, in essence, our “World or Earth Consciousness”. It is through our Body that we are able to become aware of the World around us. This is primarily our sensual nature (our five basic/God-given senses).

God’s design for us is for our Spirit Nature to dictate to our Soul Nature, and for our Soul Nature to dictate to our Earth Nature. This is done ONLY when we allow God to dictate to and be in control of our Spirit Nature. In this way, we begin to think the right way, and have balanced center of emotions. We don’t “feel” bad when God is in control and are at PEACE when He is dictating how we think and feel.

Well did the Psalmist say,

“…Great PEACE have they which love thy law, and NOTHING shall offend them….” Psalm 119:165

If Our Lord’s Salvation plan is NOT experienced in the Soul, Jesus’ promise of peace will NOT come to pass. In fact, we will live as many are living today, according to their own PLEASURE – allowing our Body to dictate to our Soul, becoming seduced by how we feel and allowing our emotional nature to call for the Body to do (again) what the Soul likes! In this way, The Spirit part of us is cut off, and we become DEAD in trespasses and sins! The Apostle Paul said it best in Ephesians 2:1-10 NKJV

“…And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2) in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3) among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.
4) But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5) even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6) and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7) that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8) For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9) not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10) For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them….”

What happens in this process is clear: We OFFEND God with our sins! But guess what? He forgives us! This is why the scripture says, “…forgive… just as your Father has forgiven you….” [paraphrase of Mark 11:25]. Let me go back to my “memory” point for our conversations sake. From a practical/human point of view, some may argue that I am being un-realistic to believe that we will NOT remember what offenders do to offend us. I’m sure many will exclaim that there is NOTHING wrong with keeping in mind what was done to offend us. My response to this argument and line of thinking is hopefully clear from reading this study. That said; let me say a few things further.

I do NOT argue that we choose to remember what/how we were offended. My argument really is a much stronger one, in that; I believe that we can also CHOOSE NOT to remember. Yes, the natural mind will, from time to time, bring an offense to our remembrance as a natural occurrence of thinking. I understand this completely. However, does this mean that we bound by our natural inclinations to remember? I believe NOT! In fact, I believe that we are given the opportunity to control how we think. Several passages of scripture support this truth. First, we see in Philippians 2:1-5 (NKJV)

“…Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection [Bowels – KJV] and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others….”

Later, in the same letter to the Philippians 4:6-8 Paul encourages;

“…Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate [think – KJV] on these things….”

To the Romans, Paul writes in this very familiar passage (Romans 12:1-3);

“…I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God….”

I’d like to discuss a few more things before I conclude this study. First to the Christian who truly desires to live a productive life – one that is pleasing to The Lord Jesus Christ, it is eternally important to understand that forgiveness is vital to the completion of our overall mission and spiritual calling. The Bible says in 2nd Corinthians 5:18

“…Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation….”

The “Ministry of Reconciliation” is one that EVERY Christian is called to carry out. The Greek word translated “Reconciliation” here is the word, “Katallage” (kat-al-lag-ay), which is to exchange restoration and favor, to remove and replace or substitute recompenses. From this word, we also get the English word, “Catalyst”, which is a means, vehicle channel or mechanism through which something is carried. If we look at this word/meaning carefully, we will be able to understand what the exchange is as derived from this definition. Restoration is only applicable to that which has been broken. Favor is only applicable to that which has been hindered or rejected. Therein is the exchange. In other words, we are called to the service of “exchanging” one thing [restoration] for another [brokenness]. We are called as Christians to exchange “favor” for “rejection.” But wait; is this our favor or our restoration? A greater question would be, is this even our Ministry? No, this is our service to God Himself! We don’t exchange what belongs to us. We exchange what belongs to God. This is why verse 20 of the same passage (2nd Corinthians 5) says;

“…Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God…..”

From this knowledge, we come to the understanding of how important and VITAL the application of forgiveness is to the life of the Believer. How can we even call ourselves Christians if we choose to ignore the TRUE application of forgiveness? We are therefore responsible to exchange Mercy for offenses.

Finally, it behooves us to understand one other important element of the “reconciliation” application. The Bible says in James 2:12-13;

“…Speak, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.
13For he shall have judgment without mercy that has shown no mercy; because mercy triumphs over judgment….”

Now Saints and friends, this is one of the most powerful and trembling verses that is often overlooked in the Bible (in my opinion of course). In this verse, Our Lord shows us the importance of showing mercy in the face of our judgment(s). When we assess any situation in our lives as offensive to us or others, we must be VERY careful how we pronounce [or respond with] judgment upon that situation. If our judgment is one that shows no mercy, we are in spiritual danger. This said; a true understanding of Mercy helps us to know that we don’t have what it takes in the human experience to extend mercy (especially in some severe cases of personal offense). However, this is huge reason why we MUST NOT live our lives with its influence coming to us from the human/lower nature. As stated earlier in this study, we must NOT allow our spirit to be cut off while we are pleasured by the emotions and senses of our lower nature. If this occurs we separate ourselves again from the life of God and His Goodness.

“Mercy” in this passage, is the Greek word, “Eleos” (EL-eh-os), which is divinely inspired compassion, tenderness of heart, strength to love and power to heal. Notice the prefix, “EL”, which is Hebrew derivative meaning God, or The Strongest Strong ONE! The ONE Who Strengthens or infuses strength, power and ability! WOW! When someone offends us, immediately we should be praying for Eleos… for God to empower us to extend Mercy to the offender!

People of God, PLEASE grasp the truth as found in this study about the true application of forgiveness. It is so important to open our hearts in ways that will allow The Lord in to heal us of ALL wrong doing. Both the offender and the one offended are benefitted by what God does throughout this spiritual application. Don’t merely pass judgment! Forgive!

Well did Jesus say to us in 1st John 3:18 (KJV);

“…My little children, let us NOT love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth….”

“…Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions….” NLT

Grace & Peace,
Roc

The Power of Friendship!

“…A man that has friends must show himself friendly; and there is a FRIEND that sticks closer than a brother….” PROVERBS 18:24

First of all, I am NOT an advocate of calling “everyone” I know a friend. Yes, they may be wonderful people, great American citizens and outstanding role-models for others to look up to. However, to call them my FRIEND is to testify to a GREATER relationship than that which is “typically” understood in our culture.

Sure, the Bible is clear about what it takes to have and make friends: “…show yourself friendly….” However, the Biblical idea of friendship is one that entails more than a mere acquaintance of enjoyment.

Jesus said in John 15:13, “…greater love has no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends….” He further communicated on through verses 14 & 15, “…I call you NOT servants for the servants knows NOT what his Lord does, but I have called you FRIENDS for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known to you….”

What an awesome application display of FRINDSHIP! Many have interpreted this to mean that “no man can or should lay down his life for his friends”, but this is NOT what is being communicated here. Jesus is setting the application example of FRIENDSHIP in its true form. Therefore (as it is displayed), I must commit myself as a friend in the most INTIMATE way possible. Jesus essentially said (paraphrase), “…I have shared with you [my friends] all there is to know about me - who I am and what I know….” This is intimacy in its truest form.

Therefore, this shows me that my friendships should be HIGHLY intimate and VULNERABLE! Moreover, it should have the kind of WORTH [to me] that allows me to give all that I have to ensure the strength of the friendship! In this, we are really “laying down our lives for our friends”, in which there is NO GREATER way to communicate how much we love them. So then, my friend should be acquainted with all that I am, all that I have and all that I even dare hope to be! I should be available to them in the deepest commitment of love!

Solomon well stated in PROVERBS 17:17, “…A FRIEND loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity….” What a striking confirmation to the PROVERBS 18:24 passage! In other words, my FRIEND (whom I also see as my BROTHER) will love me when I need to be loved, and is CREATED [born] to be there for me during my times of deepest hurt [adversity]. This too shows intimacy and commitment!

In addition, my friend will do whatever it takes to cheer me up, encourage me and help me pick up the spirit of my life’s production – even if it means to say what I don’t want to hear! Solomon said in PROVERBS 27:17, “…As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend….” He also said in PROVERBS 11:13, “…Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful….” In other words, there times when my friend (out of love for me) will suffer me a “constructive pain” that I might obtain something greater.

Friendships are so strong, yet so under-appreciated. Some (like me) might say that it has become the “lost treasure” of relationships. Modern day relationships are often based upon human emotion, feelings and material worth. Moreover, this “basis” (emotional relationships) has dominantly become the fabric of the American marriage – even in the Church!

FRIENDSHIP & MARRIAGE

Perhaps you’ll agree with me that most Christians believe that the “role” of a man is to “look” for his wife. This belief is derived from PROVERBS 18:22, “…whoso FINDS a wife FINDS a good thing….” However, the remainder of this verse continues, “…and obtains FAVOR of The Lord….” (this is rarely quoted when speaking about the supposed “role” of a man to look for his potential wife).

The ENTIRE verse clearly communicates that men don’t “find” a wife, but God’s FAVOR! So then, it is NOT my objective to find a “wife”, but to PLEASE God in order to obtain HIS FAVOR for me. Let me take this further in the writings of Solomon….

PROVERBS 28:26 says, “…He that trusts in his own heart is a fool, but whoso walks wisely, he shall be delivered….” So then, if I were to look for my own wife, how would I know who is the best for me – especially since trusting in MY OWN heart is NOT good for me to do? Furthermore, Solomon also says in PROVERBS 20:24, “…A man’s goings are of the Lord, how can a man understand his OWN WAY?...”
So then, in accordance to these passages, It is not possible for me to understand what the journey of seeking a wife looks like nor entails! In fact, PROVERBS 31:10 (the famous chapter for women) asks me a rhetorical question: “…Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is far above rubies….”

All that I can identify with, in any woman I seek, is something that I already know: Rubies! [one of the highest forms of value] I can’t see her beyond what I already identify with, so how will I know it is her when I find her – she supposed to look like what I think she should look like, and act like what I think she should act like. I’m looking for ONLY that which I can identify with. So the problem is NOT that I can’t see value. The problem is that I can’t see HER VALUE. The problem is that I can’t identify HER. She [the VIRTUOUS Woman] looks like something that is FAR above what I am familiar with [her price or value is FAR ABOVE rubies]!

You see, my heart will ONLY crave that which it is most familiar with AND loves! This is why Jesus said in MATHEW 6:21, “…where your treasure is [what is MOST valuable to you] there will your HEART be also….” Therefore, I’d be a fool to trust in my own heart, because what I seek in through my heart will ONLY be that which I want, crave, desire and love – having placed the highest value on it because it has become my ONLY focus and passion

So then, the question becomes….

How will I know when I have obtained the FAVOR of God and recognize my wife?

Perhaps a better (more practical) question is….

What do I do to gain God’s FAVOR for marriage?

Well, to answer this one I’ll use another familiar passage of scripture: PSALM 37:4-7

“…Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give you the desires of your heart...Commit your way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass...And he shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your judgment as the noonday…Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not yourself because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked devices to pass….”

Well, hopefully I have already established that we can NOT trust in our own hearts. Therefore, we must see verse 37:4 in the context of having the HEART of God – not our own! Furthermore, our DESIRES are NOT our own, but the DESIRES of God for us!

The next verse says, “…COMMIT your way unto the Lord….” This essentially says that my delight is housed within the place of doing what God wants me to do and going where HE wants me to go – which is my COMMITMENT to HIM!

In this commitment, I am to “…TRUST HIM….” And allow HIM to bring “...IT….” [my way, direction, and course of life] to pass! As I am walking in this kind of COMMITMENT to God (the passages continues), “…HE will bring forth my righteousness [what I am doing right to PLEASE HIM] as the light….” In other words, what I am doing right in God’s eyes will be the glow within me – wherever I go! It [my righteousness] will present itself clearly and precise – without confusion.

NOT only will he bring forth my righteousness as the light, but the passage continues to say that He’ll also bring forth my, “…Judgments as the noonday….” In essence, when the times comes for me to make a CLEAR decision about my life and how I commit myself to the PLAN and PURPOSE of God, it will be as CLEAR as the NOONDAY. I will be able to see and to make the decisions I need to make along my life’s journey because I am living the way God wants me to!

Look at what PSALM 37 says next, “…REST in the Lord, and WAIT PATIENTLY for HIM….” Oh how that speaks to the modern day Christian who wants it ALL right now! If we COMMIT the way this passage is asking of us, and do what PLEASES God, we must then ALLOW God to HAVE HIS WAY! This means, we MUST WAIT!!! Waiting is another “LOST ART” of the Christian experience! Notice that the passages says to “…wait PATIENTLY….” This means that our waiting might become PAINFUL to us. ROMANS 5:1-5 teaches us that “…tribulation works patience….”

The encouragement of PSALM 37 continues to help us, “…FRET NOT [don’t worry or look at] yourself because of him who prospers in HIS WAY [not the way that pleases God, but his own way]….” In other words, Christians tend to think that they are doing something wrong because everyone else around them SEEMS to be getting blessed, when they are not. This might cause seasons of doubt, depression or even a season of “backsliding.” This PSALM passage communicates SO MUCH to encourage us in doing what is right – even in the face of those who are SEEMINGLY getting blessed! However, the verse that stands out strongly to rebut this is PSALM 37:23, “…The steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord, and he [God] delights in HIS [God’s own] way….”

Now this study was about FRIENDSHIP! Therefore, to answer the question(s) proposed, we must ALWAYS take the practical approach. So then, we MUST ALWAYS present ourselves as FRIENDS FIRST! Sure, we may meet people who we have a desire for a romantic relationship with, but we MUST take those desires and COMMIT them to God (and HIS way). If, through our COMMITMENT to God, we obtain HIS FAVOR for any particular person to be in a romantic relationship with, this JUDGMENT [decision] will come forth as the LIGHT and the NOONDAY! It will become CLEAR to us! In this, we continue to be PLEASING to God and NOT seek what our OWN HEARTS desire.

Finally, we must know for ourselves what our own STRENGTHS and WEAKNESSES are with respect to our ability to COMMIT to a FRIENDSHIP. A careful and diligent application of this study will prove to be POWERFUL and fulfilling to your life, as well as current and future friendships developed on your journey. PLEASE feel free to share this study with ANT/ALL of your friends who might be praying about these topics for their own lives.

Grace & Peace
Roc