Episode 4: The Truth About Tithing

In this episode of What Do You Wanna Know?, Pastor David Martin and Venus Griffith take on one of the most uncomfortable - and most misunderstood - topics in church culture: tithing.

Why does money make people weird? Is tithing still relevant in 2026? Is it Old Testament law, New Testament generosity, or something deeper going on in the heart?

Drawing from Scripture, pastoral experience, and powerful personal stories, this conversation reframes tithing not as pressure, guilt, or manipulation - but as worship, trust, and positioning our hearts before God. They address common objections, practical questions, and the real reason Jesus paid such close attention to how people give.

This episode is honest, pastoral, and grounded - no hype, no shame, and no avoidance.

Scripture referenced:Genesis 4:3–5, Malachi 3:10, Acts 2:42–47, Mark 12:41–44, 2 Corinthians 9:6–7

Have a question? Ask here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdEy8iXDYbXPkUpbYgqObR7hj4Ls07gVuaaQt5MQIYWrUaDIQ/viewform

This week, we continue the More Than a Big Fish series by diving into Jonah chapter 3 and the power of obedience after repentance. After running from God and hitting rock bottom, Jonah is given a second chance - and this time, he obeys. We see how one moment of surrender can impact an entire city, how no one is too far gone to turn back to God, and how God’s plan doesn’t change even when we mess up. This message challenges us to trust God’s direction, walk the narrow path, and believe that God can use anyone who is willing to say yes.

This week, Pastor David delivers a sobering and hope-filled call to repentance, reminding us that revival always begins with a change of direction. Drawing from Jesus’ words in John 15 and His letters to the churches in Revelation, we’re confronted with the danger of lukewarm faith, misplaced priorities, and celebrating potential over fruit. This message challenges believers to stop settling for spiritual productivity without intimacy and return to wholehearted pursuit of Christ. Repentance is not shame - it’s an invitation to freedom, fruitfulness, and renewed fire.

1. “Pursuit Is God’s Invitation” (John 15:1–5)

* God calls His people to pursue Him because what He wants to do is time-sensitive

* Fruitfulness only flows from remaining in Christ

* Apart from Jesus, spiritual activity produces nothing of lasting value

2. “Fruit Over Potential” (John 15:8, 16)

* God measures discipleship by fruit, not giftedness

* Potential without character leads to burnout and compromise

* True disciples are recognized by the fruit Jesus produces in them

3. “When the Flame Grows Cold” (Revelation 2:1–5)

* Jesus affirms good works but confronts lost love

* Spiritual activity cannot replace devotion to God and people

* Repentance is required to keep the flame of God’s presence burning

4. “The Danger of Looking Alive” (Revelation 3:1–3)

* A reputation for life doesn’t mean spiritual health

* God calls His church to wake up and strengthen what remains

* Returning to first love restores spiritual vitality

5. “Lukewarm Faith Is Rejected” (Revelation 3:15–20)

* Indifference is more dangerous than opposition

* Distance from the source produces spiritual numbness

* Jesus lovingly confronts and invites us back into fellowship

6. “Repentance Leads to Freedom” (Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10)

* Repentance is a change of direction, not just remorse

* What stays hidden keeps us bound; what’s brought to light brings healing

* Godly sorrow leads to life, refreshment, and restored joy