No wonder the world don't want anything to do with the Church. The most popular sermon that is being taught on television and in some churches today could be titled. "Give us your Money"
This will not be a popular sermon for pastors. But even pastors need to be preached to every now and then. Think about it. You turn the TV on and there is a preacher telling you that you need to give 10% of your income to God.
He then goes on to say that God will bless you. He gives you a
1-800-number and continues to give you scripture after scripture related to giving. Most of which comes from the old testament.
Don't get me wrong. I know the church needs money to function. But when a church is more concerned about getting than giving there is a problem. Give what you can whether its 1%, 10% or 50%. or nothing at all.
Jesus said to feed the hungry, give a drink to those who thirst, give clothes to those who are needy, visit the sick and go to the prisons. Matthew 25:35-45
In the Book of James 2:15-16 The Bible says, "If a brother or sister be naked and destitute of daily food" and you say unto him "Well, good-bye and God bless; stay warm and eat hearty," And you leave them hungry and without the things that are needful to the body. What does it profit?
I know in some Churches the preachers and singers are getting fat off of the tithes while people in their community are going hungry. It is a sad fact when a church has to give nearly all the tithes they take in to a pastor. Even worse they can't afford to have a revival because they can't pay the preacher. No wonder the most popular sermon being preached is "Give us your Money"
I believe Jesus is very disappointed with the Church today. A pastor is now an occupation. Some preachers today look for Churches to pastor like someone interviewing for a job opening. What are the benefits, salary and incentives ? Do you have a parsonage ?
Wake up Pastors. It's time you start working for God and not Man. It's time you worry about why no one wants to come to church or even worse, Why is no one getting saved ?
In I Timothy Chapter 3:1-7, Paul gives the qualifications to be a Church Bishop and Deacon. (Click Here.)
If you want to see people in the pews. If you want to see people at the alter. If you want to see people saved. Preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Then allow God to work in their lives and they will give what God puts on their heart. Maybe even more than 10%.
When Jesus sat over and watched as people gave their money in the offerings. (see Mark 12:41-44) He was impressed more of the widow who gave less than a penny than the rich who gave of their abundance. Jesus is not concerned with a percentage but in how you give. God loves a cheerful giver. (see II Corinthians 9:7)
In closing, I want to invite the lost to Church, and when the offering is taken up. Don't you feel pressured to give anything. If you do give. Give it to please God and not man.
We need Pastors who likes that "Old Time Religion" We need Preachers that are more concerned with someone going to hell than someone going to their bank.
Jesus wants your heart. Not your money !