How understanding the heart behind biblical generosity can reshape your relationship with money, discipleship, and community. In this fourth episode of the Voxology Q&A Series, Mike, Tim, and Bonnie dive deep into the topic of tithing—addressing how it was practiced in the Old Testament, its evolution through the early church, and what generosity looks like in the life of a Jesus follower today.

Mike and Bonnie reflect on personal stories, spiritual disciplines, and scriptural insights to challenge the legalistic approach to giving and recenter it around the person and teachings of Jesus. They draw a clear line between the Levitical tithe and New Testament generosity, offering a liberating reframing of tithing as a joy-filled practice of trust, stewardship, and kingdom participation.

Key Takeaways: • The Purpose of Tithing in the Old Testament – Exploring tithes as temple support, social justice, and a tool for cultivating generosity. • New Testament Giving – Why Paul doesn’t teach a 10% mandate, and how Christian giving becomes about internal transformation, compassion for the poor, and freedom from the idolatry of wealth. • Generosity as a Spiritual Discipline – How being both disciplined and spontaneous in giving shapes our character and breaks the grip of consumerism. • The Danger of Legalism – Why tithing shouldn't be reduced to a religious checkbox, and why giving should be rooted in joy, not guilt or manipulation. • What to Consider When Giving to a Church or Organization – The importance of support for the poor, church transparency, and non-religious motivations behind your generosity.

Guest Highlights: Bonnie – Reflects on a transformative teaching moment from Mike that shaped her perspective on generosity and how trust in God's abundance opens the door to free and joyful giving. Tim Stafford – Shares lessons learned from partnering with homeless shelters, encouraging intentional, impact-driven giving and how generosity of time and presence is just as vital.

Resources Mentioned: • Biblical References: Genesis (Melchizedek), Levitical laws on tithing, Deuteronomy (stewardship), Acts 2 and 4, and Paul’s teachings in 2 Corinthians • Homeless services and shelters in Long Beach as examples of targeted giving • The Popcorn Illustration teaching from Mike’s Rock Harbor sermon

Let’s move beyond obligation and into a lifestyle of transformative generosity. Subscribe to Voxology, leave us a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected!

As always, we encourage and welcome discussion as we journey together. Email your thoughts or questions to [email protected], or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

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As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

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