TITHING Are You Being Taken Copyright

TITHING — Are You Being Taken? Copyright © Sept 24, 2010 & Revised October 7, 2013 Version 1. 35 All Rights Reserved. by Mike Bacon. Permission to distribute this material is granted with the provision that the entire document is transmitted as is in its entirety and distributed free of any cost. 1

Tithing Are You Being Taken? Q & A at end of presentation NO Need to take detailed notes: This PP available for FREE Appendices attached for PP recipients to address questions not covered in this presentation. 2

Tithing-Introduction Are You Being Taken? Mike’s Background Men are fallible. 2 Tim 2: 15…rightly dividing the word of truth. 3

Tithing-Introduction Are You Being Taken? 17 "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 “For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. ” - Mat 5: 17 -18 4

Tithing-Introduction Are You Being Taken? Questions to Think About: 1. Can men keep the women’s health laws? 2. Were women given priest duties? 3. Can women be circumcised? 5

Tithing-Introduction Are You Being Taken? Questions to Think About: 1. Can men keep the women’s health laws? 2. Were women given priest duties? 3. Can women be circumcised? NOT a matter of being done away. Matter of APPLICABILITY. Is Tithing Applicable Today? 6

Tithing-Introduction Are You Being Taken? 5 Rationals for Tithing Today 1. Malachi 3: 8 -10 9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. 2. Deut. 28: 45 Moreover all these curses shall come upon you, and shall pursue you, and overtake you, till you be destroyed; because you hearkened not unto the voice of YHVH thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes which he commanded you: 3. Lev 27: 32 And concerning the tithe…the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD…it is holy unto the LORD. 7

Introduction 5 Rationals for Tithing Today 4. “Principle of Tithing” / Sowing a Seed A Christian should tithe because of the principle of giving and being blessed. 5. Matt 23: 23 “But did Jesus Himself clearly indicate that tithing was still to be done? Yes! He did. Notice His Words: ‘Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these you ought to have done, and not to leave the other undone. ’ “Here Jesus shows that He expects those who practice love, justice, mercy and faith also to practice tithing! Any honest teacher of grammar—if it were any other topic—would agree that Christ is telling us not to leave tithing out! We must not leave tithing “undone”! “How Clear! “For the entire Bible shows us that if we honor God with our possessions, “So your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine (Proverbs 3: 9 -10). – R. C. M. , Minister, May-June 2010 8

Tithing-Introduction Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. 9

Tithing Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. B. Ministers cannot have a tithe inheritance without members receiving a land inheritance. 10

Tithing Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. B. Ministers cannot have a tithe inheritance without members receiving a land inheritance. C. There is a change of priesthood: Jesus Christ. 11

Tithing Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. B. Ministers cannot have a tithe inheritance without members receiving a land inheritance. C. There is a change of priesthood: Jesus Christ. D. Spirit led believers are also called priests 12

Tithing Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. B. Ministers cannot have a tithe inheritance without members receiving a land inheritance. C. There is a change of priesthood: Jesus Christ. D. Spirit led believers are also called priests. E. We are not to add or take away from the Word of God. 13

Tithing Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. B. Ministers cannot have a tithe inheritance without members receiving a land inheritance. C. There is a change of priesthood: Jesus Christ. D. Spirit led believers are also called priests. E. We are not to add or take away from the Word of God. F. We live under a secular government – not a theocracy. 14

Tithing Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. B. Ministers cannot have a tithe inheritance without members receiving a land inheritance. C. There is a change of priesthood: Jesus Christ. D. Spirit led believers are also called priests. E. We are not to add or take away from the Word of God. F. We live under a secular government – not a theocracy. G. A believer is to offer their life---not a “tenth”. 15

Tithing Are You Being Taken? A B C’s / Executive Summary A. There is no Levitical priesthood / Temple to tithe to. B. Ministers cannot have a tithe inheritance without members receiving a land inheritance. C. There is a change of priesthood: Jesus Christ. D. Spirit led believers are also called priests. E. We are not to add or take away from the Word of God. F. We live under a secular government – not a theocracy. G. A believer is to offer their life---not a “tenth”. H. Believers have the earnest of the Spirit of power. That power is still available today. 16

Tithing Are You Being Taken? Presentation Purpose What, When, Why, Where, Who of Tithing: The A-B-C’s from A to Z (Abraham to Zadok) ROADMAP of our INVESTIGATION I. The 5 W’s of Tithing in the Old Testament II. Malachi III. Jacob’s Vow IV. Tithing in the New Covenant / Testament V. What is Required of Us Today? 17

Tithing Are You Being Taken? “Get the facts first… then you may distort them as you please. ” —Mark Twain 18

I. 5 W’s—WHO: Part 1 WHO BELIEVES IN TITHING - GENERALIZATIONS Tithe Paying Churches Assemblies of God Baptists Churches of God (many) Holiness Latter Day Saints (Mormons) Messianic Christian (? ) Pentecostal Seventh Day Adventists Non-Tithe Paying Christian (some) Jehovah Witnesses Jewish* Messianic Jewish (? ) Messianic Torah Keeping (? ) *Jewish people do *not* tithe today because even they recognize that tithing is not applicable without a Levitical priesthood and Temple --yet they are noted as being generous in their contributions. 19

5 W’s—WHAT Num 18: 20 -21 And YHVH spoke unto Aaron, you shall have no inheritance in their land, 21 And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle. 20

5 W’s—WHAT Lev. 27: 30 -32 And all the (1) tithe of the (2) land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is (3) YHVHs (the LORD’s). It is (4) holy to the LORD. 31 If a man redeems any of his tithe, he must add a (5) fifth of the value to it. 31 (6) And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatsoever passes under the rod, the (7) tenth shall be holy to the LORD. NOTE What the Verses state: 1. Tithe Definition = a tenth part Maaser (H 4643) Asar (H 6237) 2. Land (seed, fruits, anything that grows on the land) and created by YHVH. 3. It is YHVH’s 4. Holy to YHVH 5. Penalty provisions 6. Animals 21 7. Animals–the tenth animal–not the first!

5 W’s—WHAT NOTE What It Does NOT Say…. . Does it anywhere say “the first tenth”? Does it anywhere say “the best”? Does it anywhere state this is “a principal”? Does it say anything about gross annual income? Does it say anything about net annual income after all Federal, State, and Local Taxes have been paid? 22

5 W’s—WHAT NOTE What It Does NOT Say…. . Does it anywhere say “the first tenth”? Does it anywhere say “the best”? Does it anywhere state this is “a principle”? Does it say anything about gross annual income? Does it say anything about net annual income after all Federal, State, and Local Taxes have been paid? NO to All of the above 23

5 W’s—WHAT NOTE What It Does NOT Say…. . Does it anywhere say anything that sowing a “seed” is money? NO 24

5 W’s—WHAT Note Two WARNINGS Deut. 4: 2 "You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take away from it, that you keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you" Deut 12: 32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: you shall not add thereto, nor diminish from it. Have we added to the Word, today? 25

5 W’s—WHAT NOTE: What it does NOT say…. . Does it anywhere say a tithe is “of the hand”? i. e. Anything created by man? Biblical / ancient society included bakers, candle makers, carpenters, clothing makers, hired farm workers, hired herdsmen, hired household servants, jewelry craftsmen, masons, metal craftsmen, musicians, painters, perfume makers, physicians, sculptors, soldiers, tanners, teachers tent makers, etc. Did God mention these items/trades/people? Did He forget to mention them? NO 26

5 W’s—WHAT NOTE What It Does NOT Say…. . Does it say anything about a VAT? – Value Added Tithe / Tax No 27

5 W’s—WHAT REMEMBER Tithing is of “of the land” (what God creates) Lev. 27: 30 -32 And all the (1) tithe of the (2) land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree —NOT of the “hand” (what man creates) 28

Tithing—WHAT 3 TITHES REQUIRED! What Most Televangelists and Churches don’t tell you! 1 st Tithe—Lev. 27: 30 -32 (“Rent”) 2 nd Tithe—Deut. 14: 23 (Festival) 3 rd Tithe— (Social Welfare) (Levites, orphans, widows, strangers) Offerings—(Deut 16: 10, 16) TOTAL = Anciently – About 40% of one’s annual income. National, State, & Local U. S. Taxe$ –about 40%? 29

Tithing—WHAT 2 nd Tithe Further Illustrates Tithing Definition What Most Televangelists and Churches don’t tell you! 2 nd Tithe—Deut. 14: 23 (Festival) Deut. 14: 24 -25 And if the way is too long for you, so that you are not able to carry it; or, if the place is too far from you, which the YHVH your God shall choose to set his name there, when the YHVH your God has blessed you, 25 Then shall you turn it into money, and bind up the money in your hand, and shall go to the place which the YHVH your God shall choose 30

Tithing—WHAT 3 TITHES REQUIRED! What Most Televangelists and Churches don’t tell you! Levites also paid Tithes: Neh. 10: 38 To whom are the ministers that preach tithing— tithing their tenth? Themselves…if at all? 31

5 W’s—WHEN Deut 14: 22 Thou shall truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field brings forth year by year. 32

5 W’s—WHY (1) WHY- Because it is YHVH’S Lev. 27: 30 -32 And all the (1) tithe of the (2) land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is (3) YHVHs (the LORD’s). It is (4) holy to YHVH (the LORD) (Israel’s annual “rent”. ) A Tithe Keeping RATIONAL We are robbing God! (Mal 3: 8) It’s Holy! It belongs to God! My Response: OK…what about…. 33

5 W’s—WHY (1) “It is the Lord’s, ” and “Holy to the Lord, ” “Holy” things to God in Leviticus include: Festivals and holy days (23 -11 times) God’s name (20: 3) Sanctuary (4: 6), Priests (21: 6), Crown of the high priest (8: 9), Tithe (27: 30, 32). God and his people (11: 4; 19: 2), Linen garments of the high priest (16: 4), 4 th year’s fruit of a new tree (19: 24), “Most Holy” things to God in Leviticus include: Priest’s portion of the grain and sin offerings (Lev. 2: 3; 6: 17), Trespass offering (7: 1), Inner room of the sanctuary (16: 2), Persons under a ban to be punished by death (27: 28 -29)— things which are even more holy than the tithe. 34

5 W’s—WHY (2) “PRINCIPLE of Tithing”……. . IS INHERITANCE Num 18: 20 -21 And YHVH spoke unto Aaron, you shall have no inheritance in their land, 21 And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle. (i. e. Tithe given in exchange for land inheritance). 35

5 W’s—WHY (2) “PRINCIPLE of Tithing”……. . IS INHERITANCE Num 35: 2 -3 Command the children of Israel, that they give unto the Levites of the inheritance of their possession cities to dwell in; and ye shall give also unto the Levites suburbs for the cities round about them. And the cities shall they have to dwell in; and the suburbs of them shall be for their cattle, and for their goods, and for all their beasts (i. e. from the tithe of the flocks they received). 36

5 W’s—WHY (2) PRINCIPLE is INHERITANCE Where did the Levites permanently live and serve? 48 cities (Num 35). Was Jerusalem one of these cities? NO. What did 11 Tribes of Israel receive as their inheritance? The LAND of Israel ! 37

5 W’s—WHO: Part 2 Num 18: 20 -21 And YHVH spoke unto Aaron, you shall have no inheritance in their land, 21 And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle. 38

5 W’s—WHO Kings (Gov’t) to Take the Tithe What most Televangelists and Churches don’t tell you 1 Sam 8: 15 And he (the king) will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants. 16 And he will take your menservants, and your maidservants, and your goodliest young men, and your asses, and put them to his work. 1 Sam 8: 17 He (the king) will take the tenth of your sheep: and you shall be his servants. WHY? Because they wanted a man for a King—Not God. (I Sam 8: 7) NOTE: Kings are not priests. 39

How Did King David Handle the Tithes? Duties of 38, 000 (? ) Tithe-Receiving Levites (1 Chron. 28: 32 & 23: 4 -5) Servants to King: (1) “for every matter pertaining to God, ” and (2) “affairs of the king” (I Chron. 26: 32). 24, 000 Temple Workers (23: 4) 6, 000 civil and religious judges and officers (23: 4; 26: 29 -31), “leaders (i. e. lesser rulers? ), priests, and Levites” (23: 2). There were 6, 000 Levites who served as governmental judges and treasurers in the Levitical cities: 1, 700 judged and collected revenue in one region of the country, 2, 700 in another region, and (evidently) 1, 600 in a third region (26: 31 -32). . 40

How Did King David Handle the Tithes? Duties of 38, 000 (? ) Tithe-Receiving Levites (1 Chron. 28: 32 & 23: 4 -5) 4, 000 civil and religious guards (23: 5) (Neh. 13: 22) 4, 000 singers (23: 5) 4, 600 earlier served as soldiers (1 Chron. 12: 23, 26) (1 Chron 27: 5) Reference: Ezra 2: 40 -42, 61; Neh. 7: 43 -45; Neh. 8: 9; 10: 28, 39; Neh. 12: 44 -45. CONCLUSION: KING DAVID HANDLED THE TITHES IN A RIGHTEOUS MANNER —He was not corrected on this matter— 41

How Did King David Handle the Tithes? Jewish Encyclopedia, Encyclopedia Judaica, 5050 Judaica, s. v. “tithe. ” indicates that tithes were political taxes: “As may be learned from 1 Sam. 8: 15, 17 and from Ugarit the tithe could also be a royal tax which the king could exact and give to his officials. This ambiguity of the tithe, as a royal due on the one hand, and as a sacred donation on the other, is to be explained by the fact that the temples to which the tithe was assigned were royal temples (cf. Amos 7: 13) and, as such, the property and treasures in them were put at the king’s disposal…. ” “As is well known, the kings controlled the treasures of palace and temple alike, which is understandable, since they were responsible for the maintenance of the sanctuary and its service…. It stands to reason that the tithe, which originally was a religious tribute, came to be channeled to the court, and was therefore supervised by 42 royal authorities. ”

2. Malachi – The WHOLE Book! What most Televangelists and Churches don’t tell you! Mal. 3: 7 Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHVH of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return? Mal. 3: 8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Mal. 3: 9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Mal. 3: 10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, says YHVH 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 43

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When! CONTEXT What is the context: who is YHVH speaking to? 1: 1 -5 Introduction: All Israel to hear this message. . . about who…? ? ? 1: 6 -14 General Complaint against the priests 2: 1 - 4: 6 Specifics against the priests. Who does the word “you” refer to after 1: 6? The priests? What were the priests accused of? Lack of Honor towards God, wrongful sacrifices + more (1: 6 -8); Corrupting the covenant (2: 8) Theft (3: 8 -10) 44

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When! The Book of Malachi is referring to the corrupt priests of the day and their robbing of YHVH— not the people. Let’s take a closer look… 45

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When! Who was cursed 4 times before Mal 3: 9? The priests: 1: 14; 2: 2 (3 times) Who was this message / the commandment addressed to? 2: 1 How strong was the language YHVH used? 2: 3 !!!!!!! Who was a specific covenant made with? The covenant of Levi: 2: 4, 5, 8, 10. What does “Malachi” mean? My Messenger Who were God’s messengers? The Levites! 46

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When! Who has committed the sins? Only the priests? Only Judah? Does it say “you Judah”? 3: 10 -11 Are the priests responsible for the spiritual welfare of the people? 2: 8 -9 Who is being purified? Sons of Levi. 3: 3 47

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When! LOCATION Where did priests serve? Jerusalem (I Chron. 27) Where did the Levites permanently live and serve? 48 cities (Num 35, etc). But not Jerusalem! Neh 10: 37: and the tithes of our ground unto the Levites, that the same Levites might have the tithes in all the cities of our tillage. Where did the Levites use the tithe? The homes and fields (Num 35: 2 -3) Where did the Aaronic priesthood live? 13 0 f the 48 cities (Josh 21: 9 -19) 48

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When! TITHE of the TITHE What is the tithe priests were given? The Tithe of the Tithe Levites received (Neh. 10: 38) from Israel to be given to the priests in Jerusalem. Yes, even the Levite tithed. Where was this tithe used? . Jerusalem—the House of God (Neh. 10: 35 -38) 49

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When STOREHOUSE What and where is the “treasure house” (H 214) and the “storehouse”? (H 214 & H 1004) Jerusalem, the House of God (3: 10 Neh. 10: 35 -38) "And the priest the son of Aaron shall be with the Levites, when the Levites take tithes: and the Levites shall bring up the tithe of the tithes unto the house of our God, to the chambers, into the treasure (H 214) house. " —Neh. 10: 38 Storehouse = owtsar (H 214) used 79 times in the OT as "treasure" or "treasures" (61 times) and several times as "treasury" (10 times) or "storehouse" or "storehouses" (3 times), 50 "armory, " "garners“, and "store. "

Temple Storehouses Where were the storehouses located? (1 Kings 6: 4 -6, 10) 1 Ki 6: 5 And against the wall of the house he built chambers (i. e. multiple rooms) round about, against the walls of the house round about, both of the temple and of the oracle: and he made chambers round about: Were the storehouses large enough for all of Israel’s tithes? No. See their sizes in 1 Kings 6: 46, 10). The largest combined room would be 21 feet wide by 21 feet long by 7 1/2 feet tall. 51

STOREHOUSES 52

STOREHOUSES 53

Malachi – The WHOLE Book! Ask the 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, Where, When What are the blessings and curses? Deut 28 which were all part of the Torah of which tithing is a part. Why chose only one blessing (for tithing) when all the commandments are a blessing? What is the blessing / reward of the faithful Levites? Ezk 44: 15 -16 [Speaking of the 4 th Temple] But the priests the Levites, the sons of Zadok, that kept the charge of my sanctuary when the children of Israel went astray from me, they shall come near to me to minister unto me, and they shall stand before me to offer unto me the fat and the blood, said the Lord YHVH: 16 They shall enter into my sanctuary, and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge. 54

Malachi 3: 9 – The‘Kicker’! The Correct* Translation is: “You have cursed Me with a curse, for you have robbed Me, even this whole nation”. * “The Sopherium (Scribes) say that they altered the letter n (Mem=m) into p (nun=N), thus making it passive instead of active, and detaching it from the rest of the sentence. This was done to avoid a supposed irreverence”. E. W. Bullinger, The Companion Bible For more information on this change see: “The Emendations of the Scribes” by Dean & Susan Wheelock: 1997 & 2003, 24 p 55

Tithing Review WHAT: 1) Tithe Agriculture and Animals Of the “Land”…not of the “Hand”! / Lev 27: 30 -32 2) The tenth animal 3) The Levites gave the “best” as the tenth. 4) 3 tithes! 5) Levites paid tithes 56

Tithing Review WHAT: 1) Tithe Agriculture and Animals Of the “Land”…not of the “Hand”! / Lev 27: 30 -32 2) The tenth animal 3) The Levites gave the “best” as the tenth. 4) 3 tithes! 5) Levites paid tithes WHEN: Year by Year (Annually) / Deut 14: 22 ! 57

Tithing Review WHAT: 1) Tithe Agriculture and Animals Of the “Land”…not of the “Hand”! / Lev 27: 30 -32 2) The tenth animal 3) The Levites gave the “best” as the tenth. 4) 3 tithes! 5) Levites paid tithes WHEN: Year by Year (Annually) / Deut 14: 22 WHY: For Temple service and no land inheritance Holy to YHVH / Lev 27: PRINCIPLE of TITHING is: INHERITANCE! 58

Tithing Review WHAT: 1) Tithe Agriculture and Animals Of the “Land”…not of the “Hand”! / Lev 27: 30 -32 2) The tenth animal 3) The Levites gave the “best” as the tenth. 4) 3 tithes! 5) Levites paid tithes WHEN: Year by Year (Annually) / Deut 14: 22 WHY: For Temple service and no land inheritance Holy to YHVH / Lev 27: PRINCIPLE of TITHING is: INHERITANCE! WHO: Children of Levi (Levites) / Num 18: 21 59

III. Jacob’s Vow: "The conditional 'vow' generally had a preceding clause before the oath giving the conditions which had to come to pass before the 'vow' became valid. ” —Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words 60

Jacob’s Vow 5 Parts to Jacob’s Conditional Vow: Gen 28: 20 And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, 1) If God will be with me, 2) and will keep me in this way that I go, 3) and will give me bread to eat, 4) and raiment to put on, 21 5) So that I come again to my father's house in peace; THEN 1) shall YHVH be my God: 22 2) And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God's house: 3) and of all that you shall give me I will surely ive the tenth unto thee. Jacob had fulfilled 2 parts of his 3 part conditional vow. 1. YHVH had brought him back to the “land” and Jacob had now made YHVH his God. 2. He had returned to Bethel, which is “house of God. ” He had built an altar, set up a pillar of stone and poured upon it a drink offering and oil. 3. “and of all that you shall give me” –had not yet been fulfilled! 61

Jacob’s Vow 3) and of all that you shall give me… WHAT was Jacob promised to be given that he had not yet received? The land promised to Abraham…the “Promised Land”! The Abrahamic Covenant. And WHO could Jacob give the tithe to…anyways? Gen 15: 18 In the same day the YHVH made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto your seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates: Gen 28: 13 -14 And, behold, the YHVH stood above it, and said, I am the YHVH God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon you lie, to thee will I give it, and to your seed; 14 And your seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in your seed shall the families of the earth be blessed. 62

Jacob’s Vow WHEN did Jacob / “Israel” finally inherit the land which YHVH had promised to him and Abraham? Exodus 33: 1 And the LORD said unto Moses, Depart, [and] go up hence, thou and the people which thou hast brought up out of the land of Egypt, unto the land which I swore unto Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, Unto thy seed will I give it: Deuteronomy 1: 8 Behold, I have set the land before you: go in and possess the land which the LORD swore unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them and to their seed after them. (Gen 15: 18) And WHEN was Israel required to pay tithes? Lev 27! 3) and of all that you shall give me…I will surely give the tenth unto thee. 63

IV. Tithing in the New Covenant What most Televangelists and Churches don’t tell you! WHAT is the Scriptural Definition of the “Seed” that many ministries are asking you to sow? 64

Tithing in the New Covenant Mat 13: 3 -9 And he spoke many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; 4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: 5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: 6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: 8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. 9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. Matt 13: 10 -12 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why do you speak to them in parables? 11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. 12 For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. 65

Tithing in the New Covenant Luke 8: 5 A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. 6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. : 8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 9 And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be? 10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. Luke 8: 11 “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. ” (!). 66

Tithing in the New Covenant It Bears Repeating: The “Seed” is the Word of God! (Luke 8: 11). And what do Scriptures define as fruit? Galatians 5: 22 -23 67

Tithing in the New Covenant Matt 23: 23 --Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees (Levites!) 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 (i. e. tithing) undone. Ask the 5 questions: Who, What, Why, Where, When. --Who is paid the tithe? --Where are the Levites today? --Where is the Temple in Jerusalem today? * (Why not after 50 years? !) and… --Why are people, today, tithing to non-Levites? *Remember…the Jewish people do not “tithe” today because there is no Temple and no priesthood. 68

Tithing in the New Covenant Christ is Priest of a Different Order Christ is not a member of the tribe of Levi…. but reckoned from the Tribe of Judah (Heb 7: 14). He cannot be a priest…unless it is a different order. 69

Tithing in the New Covenant Priesthood has changed 3 TIMES since Genesis 14: 18 -20 And Melchizedek (remember the sons of Zadok in Ezekiel) king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. 19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: 20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered your enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all. 1 st Change. Exodus 13: 2 Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever opens the womb among the 70 children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine.

Tithing in the New Covenant Priesthood has changed TIMES since Genesis 2 nd Change. Num 8: 14 -16 Thus shall you separate the Levites from among the children of Israel: and the Levites shall be mine. 15 And after that shall the Levites go in to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation: … 16 For they are wholly given unto me from among the children of Israel; instead of such as open every womb, even instead of the firstborn of all the children of Israel, have I taken them unto me. 71

Tithing in the New Covenant Priesthood has changed TIMES since Genesis 3 rd Change. Hebrews 7: 1 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. What Law? (See 2 above & repeated below). 2. THIS LAW Num 8: 14 -16 Thus shall you separate the Levites from among the children of Israel: and the Levites shall be mine. 15 And after that shall the Levites go in to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation: … 16 For they are wholly given unto me from among the children of Israel; instead of such as open every womb, even instead of the firstborn of all the children of Israel, have I taken them unto me. 72

Tithing in the New Covenant Christ is Priest of a Different Order Heb 7: 1 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; Heb 7: 2 To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace Heb 7: 9 And as I may so say, Levi also, who receive tithes, payed tithes in Abraham. 10 For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him. Heb 7: 12 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. WHAT LAW? See VERSE 13: Heb 7: 13 For he of whom these things are spoken pertains to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. Heb 7: 17 For he testifies You are a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. 73

Tithing in the New Covenant Christ is Priest of a Different Order “Cohen and Sons” attorneys at law… lost the contract and fired for greed & incompetence. The new Executors of the Will and Inheritance are now… “Melchisedec and Sons” 74

Tithing in the New Covenant And How does Paul address the understanding of the concept of the Melchisedec Priesthood to the Hebrews? Heb 5: 10 being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. 11 About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. Heb 5: 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, 13 for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. Heb 5: 14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. 75

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedic priesthood for these reasons: 1. How does one pay tithes to Jesus Christ in heaven? 76

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedec priesthood for these reasons: 1. How does one pay tithes to Jesus Christ in heaven? 2. Christ is the only “spiritual” member of the Melchisedec priesthood. 77

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedec priesthood for these reasons: 1. How does one pay tithes to Jesus Christ in heaven? 2. Christ is the only “spiritual” member of the Melchizedec priesthood. 3. The individual believer is considered a priest and temple: 1 Peter 2: 5 You also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, 1 Peter 2: 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; … 1 Cor 3: 16 Know you not that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? Should One, then, pay tithes to himself? 78

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedec priesthood for these reasons: 4. One cannot revert to Abraham and Melchizedek because the law subsequently changed twice--in Exodus and Numbers and a third time in Christ! 79

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedec priesthood for these reasons: 4. One cannot revert to Abraham and Melchizedek because the law subsequently changed twice--in Exodus and Numbers and a third time in Christ! 5. The tithing law may or may not have been different at the time of Genesis. We do not know. But it does not matter because the law of the priesthood was subsequently changed! 80

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedec priesthood for these reasons: 4. One cannot revert to Abraham and Melchizedek because the law subsequently changed twice--in Exodus and Numbers and a third time in Christ! 5. The tithing law may or may not have been different at the time of Genesis. We do not know. But it does not matter because the law of the priesthood was subsequently changed! 6. The “spoils” tithe was only ONE percent (1%) to the Levites (Num. 31: 27, 28); and only one tenth of one percent (. 1%) to the priests (Num. 31: 29, 30) – NOT 10% that Abraham paid. 81

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedec priesthood for these reasons: 7. There is no new theocracy (like ancient Israel) established in the New Testament / Covenant until Yeshua / Jesus returns. 82

Tithing in the New Covenant THEREFORE… One cannot tithe to the Melchisedec priesthood for these reasons: 7. There is no new theocracy (like ancient Israel) established in the New Testament / Covenant until Yeshua / Jesus returns. RECALL The Two WARNINGS Deut. 4: 2 "You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take away from it, that you keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you" Deut 12: 32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: you shall not add thereto, nor diminish from it. If you tithe today…have you added to the word? 83

Tithing A-B-C REVIEW What most Televangelists and Churches don’t tell you! Tithe is only for the Levites. No Temple Today and No Levitical Priesthood. Tithe was the Levitical Inheritance. Principle is Inheritance. Ministers cannot receive their tithe inheritance…when believers do not receive their land inheritance. 3 tithes—not just 1 commanded! (+ offerings). Even Levites had to tithe to Jerusalem. The King—i. e. the Government—takes your tithes today. The “Seed” is the Word of God! (Luke 8: 11). It is not money! “Sow” the Word! 84

BUT… But you do not agree with this presentation You still wish to tithe…ok. Consider this…if you wish to pay tithes… 1. The responsibilities of the Levitical priesthood included teaching, temple services, judging (elders) in a court system. (Ex 18: 22; Deut 1: 16; 16: 18, 17: 8 -9; 25: 2) Where are the ministers teaching and being our judges today? Why public schools? 85

SO WHAT!! So you don’t buy this logical presentation / argument You still wish to tithe…ok! Consider this…if you wish to pay tithes… 1. The responsibilities of the Levitical priesthood included teaching, temple services, judging (elders) in a court system. (Ex 18: 22; Deut 1: 16; 16: 18, 17: 8 -9; 25: 2) Where are the ministers teaching and being our judges today? Why public schools? 2. The responsibilities of the early church in the colonies included schools—which were paid for by tithes. Are your children being taught and paid by your tithes? When and why did the church abdicate their teaching responsibilities. 86

5. What does God Require of Us—Today? Us For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of agape, and of a sound mind. — 2 Tim 1: 7 87

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of agape, and of a sound mind. — 2 Tim 1: 7 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. — 1 Thess. 5: 21 88

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of agape, and of a sound mind. — 2 Tim 1: 7 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. — 1 Thess. 5: 21 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men. —Acts 24: 16 89

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit (G 1980) the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. —James 1: 27 90

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit (G 1980) the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. —James 1: 27 G 1980: episkeptomai = "to look upon in order to help or to benefit" and "to look after, have care for, provide for. " Common Definition: “Let’s spend an hour with Joe because he is sick at home. ” CORRECT Definition: Good Samaritan. —Luke 10: 33+ "I was sick , and ye visited (G 1980) me. “…. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. “ —Matt. 25: 36 & 40 91

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us He has told thee, O man, what is good; and what does YHVH require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? —Micah 6: 8 92

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us He has told thee, O man, what is good; and what does YHVH require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? —Micah 6: 8 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. —Rom 12: 1 93

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us He has told thee, O man, what is good; and what does YHVH require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? —Micah 6: 8 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. —Rom 12: 1 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. —Rom 12: 2 94

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us To overcome. Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house. —Prov 24: 27 I, therefore, …urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling (G 2821) to which you have been called (G 2821) , 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, (fruits!) 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (fruit!). 4 There is one body and one Spirit--just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your 95 call (G 2821). —Eph 4: 1 -4 —Rev. 2 and 3

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law 24 And they that are Yeshuah’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. —Gal 5: 22 -24 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. (hire) —Matt 10: 10 (Reminder: Various ministries serve you at the Feast). I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. —Acts 20: 35 96

What does God Require of Us—Today? Us Have we (the ministry) no right to eat and drink? —I Cor 9: 5+ And let him who is instructed in the word communicate (i. e. share) with him who is instructing--in all good things. —Gal 6: 6 Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver. — 2 Cor 9: 7 (Remember the kids, widows, and others at the Feast). Therefore to him that knows to do good, and does it not, to him it is sin. —James 4: 17 Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it. -Luke 17: 33 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 97 —Matt 5: 16

Giving: Contemporary Quotes When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing. — Anonymous 98

Giving: Contemporary Quotes When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing. — Anonymous “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give. ” —Winston Churchill 99

Giving: Contemporary Quotes When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing. — Anonymous “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give. ” —Winston Churchill “No one has ever become poor by giving. ” —Anne Frank, Jewish Dutch Diarist during Nazi occupation 100

Giving: Contemporary Quotes When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing. — Anonymous “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give. ” —Winston Churchill “No one has ever become poor by giving. ” —Anne Frank, Jewish Dutch Diarist during Nazi occupation “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. ” —Mother Teresa 101

Giving: Contemporary Quotes When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing. . —Anonymous “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give. ” —Winston Churchill “No one has ever become poor by giving. ” —Anne Frank, Jewish Dutch Diarist during Nazi occupation “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. ” —Mother Teresa “Earn as much as you can. Save as much as you can. Invest as much as you can. Give as much as you can. ” —John Wesley, Founder of Methodism 102

Giving: Contemporary Quotes In this world there are givers and takers, the takers sometimes eat better, the givers always sleep better. —Marlo Thomas, actress. Unlike so many, we do not peddle the Word of God for profit. — 2 Cor 2: 17 NIV 103

Giving Brighten someone’s day. You are never so poor that you cannot give a smile anyway to a friend or stranger… (So what if they think you are crazy ) Give a compliment in a demanding, competitive world. 104

Tithing IN CLOSING § Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in you by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power (G 1410) dunamis=miraculous power and of agape, and of a sound mind. —Tim 1: 6 -7 105

Tithing IN CLOSING § Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in you by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power (G 1410) dunamis=miraculous power and of agape, and of a sound mind. —Tim 1: 6 -7 § But faith which works by agape (not phileo). —Gal 4: 6 106

Tithing IN CLOSING § Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in you by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power (G 1410) dunamis=miraculous power and of agape, and of a sound mind. —Tim 1: 6 -7 § But faith which works by agape (not phileo). —Gal 4: 6 § By this shall men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have agape one to another. —John 13: 35 107

Tithing IN CLOSING § Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in you by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power (G 1410) dunamis=miraculous power and of agape, and of a sound mind. —Tim 1: 6 -7 § But faith which works by agape (not phileo). —Gal 4: 6 § By this shall men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have agape one to another. —John 13: 35 § And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and “do” exploits. —Dan 11: 32 108

Tithing IN CLOSING § Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in you by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power (G 1410) dunamis=miraculous power and of agape, and of a sound mind. —Tim 1: 6 -7 § But faith which works by agape (not phileo). —Gal 4: 6 § By this shall men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have agape one to another. —John 13: 35 § And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and “do” exploits. —Dan 11: 32 § Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than 109 these shall he “do”; because I go unto my Father—John 14: 12

Let’s prepare to “do”. 110

Q&A Tithing — Are You Being Taken? 111

APPENDIX A A list of every Bible text on Tithe(s) / Tithing Genesis 14: 17 -20 Genesis 28: 20 -22 Leviticus 27: 30 -34 Numbers 18: 19 -28 Deuteronomy 12: 1 -19 Deuteronomy 14: 22 -29 Deuteronomy 26: 12 -13 1 Samuel 8: 14 -17 2 Chronicles 29: 35 2 Chronicles 31: 1 -12 Amos 4: 2 -6 Nehemiah 10: 37 -38 Nehemiah 12: 44 Nehemiah 13: 5, 12 Malachi 3: 7 -10 Matthew 23: 23 Luke 11: 42 Luke 18: 9 -14 Hebrews 7: 1 -19 112

APPENDIX B A list of every Bible text on Melchizedek Genesis 14: 18 Psalm 110: 4 Hebrews 5: 6, 10 Hebrews 6: 20 Hebrews 7: 1, 15, 17, 21 113

APPENDIX C How Do the Jewish People Raise Money since They do Not Tithe? Dues are a percentage of income (not 10%). Synagogues’ base dues vary widely: $1, 000 per family per year to $3, 000—according to officials within the Reform and Conservative movements. Reform Temples are generally the Highest Attendance is highest on High Holy Days; therefore, reserved seats cost $ Annual Dues—not reservations—are the primary source of income. 114

APPENDIX C How Do the Jewish People Raise Money since They do Not Tithe? “Historically, American Protestant churches and synagogues shared a fundraising model. Both charged “pew rents, ” or fees for seats, with rates often based on the particular seat’s desirability. The practice declined in Protestant churches in the late 19 th century and had essentially disappeared by the 1940 s. ” Source: http: //forward. com/articles/131095/#ixzz 1 gd. MAj. U 5 m 115

APPENDIX D I Cor. 16: 2 and I Cor. 12: 14 1 Cor 16: 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store (G 2343), as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. This does not call a church a “storehouse”. It just tells the giver how to handle a gift, as below. 2 Cor 12: 14 Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up (G 2343) for the parents, but the parents for the children. G 2343 the saurizo thay-sow-rid'-zo From G 2344; to amass or reserve (literally or figuratively): - lay up (treasure), (keep) in store, (heap) treasure (together, up). 116

APPENDIX E “In the early days of our nation, the tithe supported not only churches, but church schools, and colleges, and provided for a variety of other social needs” --Marshal Foster and Mary-Elain Swanson. 1983. --The American Covenant the Untoldin Mark A. Beliles Story and Stephen K. Mc. Dowell. 1989 America’s Providential History. p 253, 254. “In the early 1800 s the clergy and church began to gradually crease providing leadership in our public universities and schools…Horace Mann convinced Massachusetts that the answer was to let civil government take charge of it instead of the private sector (families and churches). ” --Mark A. Beliles and Stephen K. Mc. Dowell. 1989 America’s Providential History. P 253 117

APPENDIX F Selected Resources 1. Collins, Steven. 2012, Feb. Biblical Teachings Regarding Tithing. 2. Kelly, Russell Earl. Ph. D. 2000. Should the Church Teach Tithing? 3. Pifer, Garry D. n. d. What Does the Bible Say About Tithing? All are available on the internet. “Google” them! 118

Versions 1. 0 1. 1 1. 2 Presented at Season of Our Joy Sukkot. 9/24/10 Added Storehouse definition, additional Malachi references. Modified introduction, added Malachi subtitles, emendation, Jacob’s vow, and contemporary giving slides with color slide changes. 1. 21 Added Jehovah’s Witnesses to non-tithe paying churches. 10/31/10 1. 22 Added Gal 6: 6 to giving. 11/23/10 1. 23 Added Jewish Encyclopedia reference on King’s use of tithe. 12/14/10 1. 24 Added additional explanation to Jacob’s Vow. 7/19/11 1. 30 Added So What! p 85, 86, 87 11/12/11 1. 31 Added p 30 2 nd tithe example; p 51, 52, & 53 Storehouse info & Temple plan showing storehouses; Appendices C & D 12/16/11. 1. 32 Modified p 61 to read 5 conditions – note 3 – to Jacob’s vow & added Appendix E. 7/12/12 1. 33 Added Hebrews 5: 10 -14 (p 75) & new Appendix E. 8/21/12 and relabeled old Appendix E tp F. 1. 34 Modified So What to But… 2/22/13 and deleted p 85 1. 35 Added Pifer as a Selected Resource 10/7/13 119