2 Corinthians Chapters 8 and 9
Offerings in Context
Sermon Outline for January 12, 2014 by Pastor Dennis R. Tuuri
The Tithe As Distinct From Offerings
1. The tithe is a tenth of the increase that God has given us.
2. To tithe (giving one-tenth of one’s income) is a response to the grace of God’s blessings.
3. The tithe is critical to covenant ratification. Dt. 26
4. The tithe belongs to God. To fail to use it aright is theft, bringing cursings. Mal. 3:7-12
5. The tithe’s primary use is the support of Levitical ministers of Word, prayer and sacraments. Gen. 14:20; Heb. 7; Num. 18; 1 Cor. 9:1-14 with Dt. 25:4; Gal.6:6-8; I Tim. 5:17,18; Acts 6; 2 Chr. 19: 11; 34:13 (Note 2 Chr. 31:4 with Acts 6:2) (Discipleship)
6. A portion of the tithe is used to finance our Agapes and Family Camp, and provides a joy aspect. Dt. 14 (Community)
7. A portion of the tithe is to be given to widows, the fatherless and the stranger, and provides a grace aspect. Dt. 14; Luke 4:25; Eze. 16; Exo. 23:9, I Tim. 5:9, 10 (Mission)
8. The restoration of tithing is tied to periods of Biblical transformation. 2 Ch. 31;Ne. 10,12,13
Mandatory Offerings
1 The offerings of Malachi 3 were specifically designated for maintenance of worship facilities, and food for the priests. Ex. 30 2 Ch. 24; 2 Ki 12:4,5; Lev. 27:2,3
2. Real property of the church appears to be financed through voluntary offerings, not the tithe. Exo. 25, 35; 1 Chr. 29; Haggai 1,2
3. Maintenance of the church’s real property appears to be financed not by the tithe, but by means of offerings, voluntary and involuntary. 2 Chr. 24; 2 Kings 12:4,5, Lev. 27:2,3