TITHE MAXIMISE YOUR AUTHORITY
In Malachi Chapter 3, specifically beginning at verse 8, the text poses a profound question regarding the relationship between humanity and the divine. The passage, as rendered in the New International Version, asks whether a mere mortal can rob God, followed by the assertion that indeed, such an act is occurring. The inquiry is met with a response that highlights the act of robbing God through the withholding of tithes and offerings, which has resulted in a curse upon the entire nation. The Lord commands the people to bring the full tithe into the storehouse, promising that if they do so, He will open the floodgates of heaven and bestow blessings so abundant that they will be unable to contain them. Furthermore, God assures them that He will protect their crops from pests and ensure that their vines bear fruit at the proper time, leading to a reputation among all nations as a blessed and delightful land.
The context of this message is rooted in the covenantal relationship established between God and the nation of Israel, tracing back through the lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God transformed Jacob’s name to Israel, signifying the establishment of a national covenant with His chosen people. This covenant was collective, encompassing the entire nation rather than individual agreements. In contrast, the New Testament introduces a paradigm of individual covenants, where each person must consciously and willingly submit their life to Christ to enter into a relationship with God. The Old Testament Jews were inherently part of this national covenant, and God’s admonition to them about robbing Him reflects the collective responsibility of the nation. The concept of being cursed implies a state of being empowered to fail, while the oppositeābeing blessedāindicates an empowerment to prosper, underscoring the significance of obedience to God’s commands.
When an individual is subjected to a curse, their circumstances often unfold in a perplexing manner, leading them to find themselves in situations that are misaligned with their intentions. For instance, a person may be in the right location but surrounded by the wrong company, or conversely, they may be in the wrong place at an opportune moment. This misalignment results in actions that yield unfavorable outcomes, which are so evident that observers may conclude that a curse is at play. It is important to note that this phenomenon is not necessarily linked to a lack of education or knowledge; rather, it stems from a lack of divine empowerment. Even a well-educated individual may struggle to think clearly or make sound judgments when under the influence of a curse, as there exists a force that distorts their ability to reason effectively. Consequently, poor judgment can lead to a downward spiral in life, highlighting the critical distinction between the effects of a curse, which fosters erroneous thinking, and the benefits of a blessing, which enhances one’s capacity for wise decision-making.
In contrast, blessings are intrinsically tied to wisdom, which is defined as the ability to discern the appropriate course of action. Wisdom serves as a guiding principle, as articulated in biblical texts that emphasize its role in providing direction. When blessings manifest, they are often accompanied by the spirit of wisdom, which enables individuals to navigate life’s complexities with clarity and purpose. The scriptures illustrate that disobedience, such as failing to adhere to the principles of giving, can result in a curse, as seen in God’s admonition to the nation of Israel. This disobedience, often rooted in a spirit of greed, can hinder one’s access to the transformative power of blessings and divine authority. Before delving deeper into the significance of tithing and its implications for believers, it is essential to address the misconceptions surrounding this practice, as many individuals resist the concept due to misguided interpretations fueled by a desire for material gain.
In contemporary society, numerous individuals engage in discussions regarding the concept of tithing, and I have received emails as recently as two weeks ago, following the commencement of this series. Many correspondents have expressed their concerns, stating that during conversations in their workplaces, they faced opposition when advocating for tithing. They argue that tithing is an Old Testament practice, suggesting that it is merely a tactic employed by pastors to extract money from congregants. This perspective often stems from a spirit of greed, as individuals seek justifications to withhold their financial contributions. The question arises: if one refrains from paying tithes, what becomes of those funds? Typically, they are spent on personal desires, which can be seen as indulgent behavior. Last year, during a series focused on blessings, I addressed frequently asked questions about tithing, and I encourage you to seek out that message for further insights.
To comprehend the essence of tithing, it is crucial to recognize that it is fundamentally based on the principle of divine portion. In the creation narrative found in the book of Genesis, we observe that God designed humanity to have the freedom to express themselves. However, within this freedom, God established certain principles, particularly in Genesis 2:16-17, where He placed man in the garden and permitted him to eat freely from all trees except for oneāthe tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which He designated as His portion. This divine portion serves as a reminder of God’s presence and authority, prompting humanity to reflect on their relationship with the Creator. While man is granted dominion over the garden, the existence of this singular tree is intended to maintain a consciousness of God, reinforcing the principle that divine portions are integral to various aspects of life.
In the book of Malachi, specifically in chapter 2, God addresses men, emphasizing their role as the foundational figures within their households. He reminds them that they are the beginning and the end in their family dynamics, urging them to recognize the divine origin of their wives. God created women as a gift, and when men act deceitfully towards their wives, particularly those they married in their youth, they risk incurring divine displeasure. The scripture warns that such actions can lead to a spiritual blockage, where prayers go unanswered, symbolized by the heavens being as brass above them. This profound message serves as a reminder that in every interaction with their spouses, men should acknowledge the divine presence and treat their partners with the reverence due to a creation of God.
Furthermore, this principle extends beyond personal relationships to encompass financial matters. When individuals receive money, it is essential to reflect on their relationship with God and consider their responsibilities, such as tithing. For many, the initial reaction may be to set aside their spiritual obligations, thinking that God will automatically receive His share. However, the act of giving should be a conscious decision, especially when faced with substantial amounts.
It is crucial to understand that everything in life has a divine portion, and recognizing this is vital for maintaining a covenant with God. The distinction between morality and righteousness is significant; while one can be morally good, true righteousness stems from a relationship with Christ. This understanding is essential for navigating the complexities of life without losing sight of the divine principles that govern our actions.
Tithing, as a practice, has its origins that extend beyond the Mosaic Law, indicating that it is not merely a relic of the Old Covenant. Many individuals reference Galatians 3:13, which states that Christ has liberated us from the curse of the law, emphasizing that “cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree.” Verse 14 continues by asserting that the blessings of Abraham may be bestowed upon the Gentiles. This leads some to argue that since tithing is associated with the law, it should not be practiced today, as it is perceived to belong solely to the Old Testament. However, such assertions may stem from a misguided interpretation influenced by a spirit of greed. It is essential to recognize that tithing predates the law itself, with the earliest biblical instance occurring with Abraham, who lived 430 years before Moses, the lawgiver.
In Hebrews 7:1, the text introduces Melchizedek, a significant figure often regarded as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, known in theological terms as a Christophany. The scripture describes Melchizedek as the king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God, who encountered Abraham after a victorious battle and blessed him. In verse 2, it is noted that Abraham gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything he had, which is the essence of tithing. This act of giving a tenth is not only a demonstration of Abraham’s faith but also connects to the identity of Melchizedek as the king of righteousness, a tithe that ultimately points to Jesus, who is referred to as the Prince of Peace. The book of Hebrews further elaborates on the duality of priesthood, contrasting the Old Testament priests, who atoned for the sins of the people, with Christ, our New Testament priest, who offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s redemption.
In the Old Testament, the role of the priest involved entering the temple to perform animal sacrifices as a means of atoning for the sins of the people, a practice that occurred at regular intervals. This ritualistic approach finds a parallel in certain African traditional religions, where it is believed that the spirits of deceased ancestors require offerings, such as the sacrifice of a goat, to appease them. The notion is that failure to perform these sacrifices may result in the spirit returning to cause unrest. However, in the context of Christianity, particularly in the New Testament, the narrative shifts significantly. The Bible asserts that Jesus Christ made a singular, all-encompassing sacrifice by entering the holy place and offering Himself, thus eliminating the need for repeated animal sacrifices. This realization liberates believers from the obligation to perform such rituals for ancestral spirits, as Christ’s sacrifice is deemed eternal and sufficient.
Furthermore, the New Testament presents Christ as the High Priest in the order of Melchizedek, a figure who is distinct from the Levitical priesthood established in the Old Testament, which required priests to be descendants of the tribe of Levi. In contrast, Christ emerged from the tribe of Judah, which signifies a transformative shift in the priestly lineage. The Book of Hebrews elaborates on this new priesthood, emphasizing that Melchizedek, who blessed Abraham and received tithes from him, serves as a precursor to Christ’s eternal priesthood. This distinction raises questions about the relevance of tithing in the New Testament context, as the focus shifts from ritualistic obligations to a relationship with Christ, who empowers believers to prosper through faith rather than through adherence to ancestral practices. It is essential to communicate these theological concepts clearly to avoid confusion among congregants, especially when referencing significant figures like Melchizedek, which may lead to misunderstandings regarding the continuity and transformation of religious practices.
Every believer must grasp the concept of priesthood, particularly as it pertains to the role of a pastor. This understanding is crucial for believers, as it liberates them from various misconceptions and limitations. While my focus today is on the topic of tithing rather than an in-depth exploration of priesthood, it is essential to acknowledge the significance of comprehending the New Testament priesthood. Unlike the Levitical priests who wore robes, my priesthood aligns with that of Christ, who was a carpenter from the tribe of Judah, not Levi. This distinction is vital, as it highlights the broader scope of priesthood in the New Testament, which embraces all believers under the order of Melchizedek, where every individual can serve as both a king and a priest.
In the Old Testament, the role of a king was separate from that of a priest, as illustrated by King Saul’s downfall when he attempted to offer sacrifices without waiting for the prophet Samuel. This act of disobedience led to God’s rejection of him. In the New Testament context, however, believers are called to embody both roles, merging administration, preaching, and leadership. It is important to recognize that Jesus affirmed the practice of tithing, as evidenced in Matthew 23:23, where He admonished the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy in focusing on minor details while neglecting the more significant aspects of the law, such as justice, mercy, and faith. Christ’s message was clear: while tithing is important, it should not overshadow the imperative of upholding justice and mercy. He did not dismiss the practice of tithing; rather, He emphasized that both tithing and the weightier matters of the law should be observed concurrently.
The Pharisees and scribes were known for their strict adherence to the law, often bringing their tithes without regard for the ethical implications of their actions. They would accumulate wealth at the expense of the less fortunate, trampling on the rights of others in their pursuit of financial gain. In their quest to fulfill the law, they exhibited a lack of justice and mercy, focusing solely on the letter of the law rather than its spirit. Jesus pointed out that while they were meticulous in their tithing practices, they were neglecting the more significant aspects of the law, such as compassion and fairness. This situation mirrors contemporary societal issues where a lack of respect for the rule of law can lead to exploitation and injustice, with individuals prioritizing profit over ethical considerations.
Moreover, the Pharisees took their tithing to an extreme, even including herbs like mint, cumin, and anise, which were not specified in the Levitical laws as items for tithing. Jesus highlighted this discrepancy, noting that while they exceeded expectations in their tithing practices, they failed to address the more critical matters of justice and mercy. The original commandments emphasized the importance of tithing from one’s produce and livestock, yet the Pharisees’ focus on minor details overshadowed their responsibility to care for those in need. Jesus urged them to redirect their attention towards the weightier matters of the law, emphasizing that true adherence to the law involves not just ritualistic practices but also a commitment to social justice and the well-being of the marginalized.
In conclusion, before transitioning to the topic of authority, it is essential to recognize that tithing serves as a testament to one’s triumph over the spirit of greed. Demonstrating to God that one has conquered this spirit is best achieved through the act of giving what He has requested, regardless of personal circumstances. Even if one does not possess the means to fulfill all requests, the mere act of giving signifies a victory over greed, indicating that it no longer holds dominion over one’s heart and mind. As previously mentioned, the spirit of poverty promotes a mindset of hoarding, urging individuals to grasp what they can, preserve it, and fearfully withhold from giving. This fear stems from the belief that relinquishing possessions equates to a loss in life, leading to a diminished existence. In contrast, Jesus taught that it is more blessed to give than to receive, suggesting that true fulfillment and blessings arise from the act of generosity rather than from accumulation.
Furthermore, once one embraces the principle of proportional giving and honors the divine expectation of tithing, a significant transformation occurs. Tithing grants the individual the legal standing, or locus standi, to confront and rebuke the devourer, a metaphorical representation of loss or destruction. It is crucial to understand that a thief cannot effectively challenge a devourer, as they operate within the same realm of dishonor.
Tithing, therefore, empowers the faithful to assert their authority against forces that seek to undermine their blessings.
An exemplary illustration of this principle can be found in Matthew 8:5, where the Centurion exemplifies profound faith rooted in an understanding of spiritual authority. This narrative underscores the importance of recognizing one’s position and the power that comes from aligning with divine principles, ultimately leading to a life marked by abundance and spiritual victory.
In the Gospel narrative, it is recorded that upon Jesus’ arrival in Capernaum, a Centurion approached Him with a heartfelt plea. The Centurion expressed his distress over a servant who was at home, suffering from paralysis and severe torment. In response to this urgent request, Jesus assured the Centurion of His willingness to come and heal the servant. However, the Centurion humbly replied, acknowledging his unworthiness for Jesus to enter his home. He demonstrated profound faith by stating that a mere word from Jesus would suffice for his servant’s healing. The Centurion articulated his understanding of authority, drawing a parallel between his own position in the Roman military and the divine authority that Jesus wielded. He recognized that just as he commanded his soldiers with a word, so too could Jesus command healing and deliverance through His divine authority.
This interaction highlights a significant theological principle regarding the nature of authority and obedience. The Centurion’s insight suggests that true authority is validated by being under a higher authority. He implied that if one is not aligned with God’s authority, their own authority in spiritual matters, such as finances or other areas of life, may be compromised. The Centurion’s faith exemplifies the necessity of honoring divine principles, as he understood that disobedience could lead to spiritual consequences. This concept is further reinforced in 2 Corinthians 10:6, which speaks of the readiness to address disobedience once oneās own obedience is fulfilled. The passage emphasizes the importance of being in right standing with God to effectively exercise authority and to confront any disobedience in one’s life or community.
I enhance my spiritual authority over my financial matters when I fully adhere to the principles outlined in scripture. In Malachi 3:10-11, as translated in various versions such as the Message Translation and the New International Version, the term “devourer” is depicted as a destructive force, akin to pests or malevolent winds that disrupt and consume. For instance, when weevils infest beans, they target the cotyledon, consuming the vital inner part of the seed, rendering it incapable of germination. This analogy illustrates the nature of the devourer, which the Message Translation refers to as a marauder or destroyer. The biblical promise that God will rebuke the devourer on behalf of His people was directed towards Israel, emphasizing the divine protection available to those who are obedient.
In the New Testament, Jesus affirms that all authority has been granted to Him, which He in turn bestows upon us, empowering us to confront and rebuke the devourer. This authority is contingent upon our submission to God’s will, particularly when we honor Him with our resources. It is imperative to utilize this spiritual authority to dismantle any financial barriers and thwart the premature termination of our aspirations. We must stand firm against discouragement and the squandering of resources, especially in situations where repeated efforts, such as retaking exams, lead to unnecessary financial burdens. Instances of near misses in securing contracts or closing deals often indicate the presence of a marauder, strategically placed to disrupt our progress. By fulfilling our obligations to God, we can exercise our spiritual authority to eliminate such obstacles and reclaim what is rightfully ours.
In the realm of creativity, stagnation can often manifest as a lack of progress, diminished inspiration, and an absence of innovative ideas. For those engaged in creative industries, it is not uncommon to experience periods where one’s creative energy seems to dwindle, leading to self-doubt and questioning one’s capabilities. Instead of asserting control over these challenges, individuals may find themselves pondering whether their struggles stem from inadequate rest or other personal issues. However, it is crucial to recognize that the flow of creativity can be influenced by external factors, and one must take proactive steps to reclaim that creative spark. This involves invoking a sense of authority to command a release of inspiration and creativity, allowing for a renewed connection with one’s creative potential.
As we gather to address these challenges, it is essential to adopt a posture of empowerment, whether seated or standing, as we collectively engage in this process. For a brief period, let us unite in declaring our authority over any forces that may hinder our creative expression and progress. It is time to confront and dismantle any barriers that impede our success, whether they manifest as destructive influences, delays, or wastage. By vocalizing our intentions and affirming our authority in Christ, we can initiate a transformative flow of creativity and prosperity in our lives. Just as Isaac unearthed the wells that had been obstructed, we too can seek the grace to remove obstacles that have stifled our potential, paving the way for new ideas and opportunities to flourish. Let us embrace this moment and declare our readiness to receive the divine inspiration that awaits us.