Reverend Antoine Rutayisire, the Pastor of Remera Anglican Church has shed light on misunderstandings and criticisms raised among people concerning the Tithe.
The preacher shared the remarks during a Sunday service that was held online.
He said there are misconceptions among believers and non-believers about the Tithe, raising a lot of questions about the topic.
According to him, there are two categories of people who raise questions about the Tithe: those whose intentions are to argue, criticize or resist, and those who ask with intentions to understand well and apply it effectively.
Some of these questions focus on knowing if Tithing is still relevant today, or whether it is a necessity. And, are there biblical verses to support the Tithe? Who should receive the Tithe? How is the Tithe used? Do pastors give Tithes? Others ask if it is necessary for them to give the Tithe in addition to the charity activities they do to assist the needy.
According to the preacher, sometimes these questions are based on ignorance.
Rutayisire clarified that the Tithe is a sign of our thankful hearts towards what God has done for us.
“The Tithe is one of the reminders that we are servants in the Kingdom of God. Tithe is not among the commandments, and it is not the pastors’ salary, but it is thanksgiving for every worshipper, because whenever we praise and honor God with our hearts and belongings, God is also pleased to bless us more,” he explained.
The preacher noted that those who criticize The Tithe and mislead others about it include the people who have rebelled against their local churches.
To shed light on the topic, Rutayisire shared biblical verses to clarify how Tithe was given in different periods; before Mosaic laws, in laws, and in the New Testament.
The biblical verses that could asssist people to understand the Tithe include Genesis 14:17-20, 28:10-15, Leviticus 27: 30-31, Numbers 18:21, 26, Deuteronomy 12:4-6, 14:22, 2 Chronicles 31:2-6, Nehemiah 10:37-38 and Mathew 23:23, Acts 4:34-35, 1 Corinthians 9: 7-11.
He reminded the public to respect the guidelines against Covid-19, and sent condolences to the families whose relatives lost their lives due to the pandemic. He noted that there are many reasons to thank God no matter what we are struggling with.
