Topic(s):  Bible Authority

Todd Clippard

I believe it is a stretch to ask for one's entire week's paycheck. There is no example of this in the Old of New Testament. I can see a situation where a special contribution might be needed, but most people live from week to week, and giving an entire paycheck would place them in financial jeopardy. I don't see anywhere in Scripture where God demanded His people to give themselves into poverty or financial distress. What kind of reflection would it be on the church if the members had to renege on paying their bills or meeting other financial obligations?

Giving of the first fruits means that God gets the first of all our blessings. We don't take our paycheck, pay bills, buy groceries, buy groceries, buy Christmas presents, and take care of all our other financial obligations, and then give to God of that which is left over. Give God His due first, then concern yourself with your other obligations.

The New Testament says we are to give every first day of the week as we have been prospered by God (1 Corinthians 16:2). Every man is to give as he has purposed in his heart, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).