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(Introduction portion of Chapter 3 only)
3
Offerings Defined
Many believers are taught and often pass along a new way to give offerings. They are taught to give ‘money above and beyond their monetary tithe’ in order to become a true giver; this additional money is called an ‘offering.’ Many believers are also convinced that they can be cursed if this method of giving is not performed. This is clearly what happens when Christians call their gifts to the church something other than acts of grace.
This chapter, as well as the following two, provide definitions that illustrate why the modern day practice of tithes and offerings should be questioned. As mentioned in the Introduction Chapter, the intention is not to question whether or not Christians should support the church. The church requires financial support. However, the method used to obtain this support should be in line with sound doctrine. The goal is to steer Christians away from traditional monetary offerings and to point them to Spirit led giving, or grace giving.
This chapter focuses on giving when it is called an offering. The term offering is defined in accordance with Old Testament rules and regulations. The offerings of tithes and firstfruits are discussed in detail in the following chapters, “Tithing Defined” and “Firstfruit Defined,” respectively. These definitions should discourage Christians from declaring their giving as an ‘offering above and beyond the tithe.’ In order to understand biblical offerings, however, several other terms are also defined in this chapter, and include, tabernacle, temple, altar, and sacrifice. This will aid in understanding the various old covenant laws associated with offerings.
Please note that depending on the version of the Bible used, different words appear in different versions. For example, the heave offering described in the King James Version actually uses the word ‘heave,’ whereas the New International Version uses words such as ‘gift’ and ‘present.’
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