Ted,

I have appreciated your comments and the articles you have referenced in this discussion. I think you have attempted to get at the heart of what the Bible teaches on this topic.

Unfortunately by reading some of the responses in this thread not everyone understands nor agrees with your position. IMHO the bottom line is that we are not our own but bought with the precious blood of Jesus. Everything we have belongs to God. We came into this world without any possessions and we will surely depart without any. So it comes down to a matter of stewardship.

No one can tell another person what to give. Because after all the act of giving is not a legal matter, it’s a matter of the heart.

"So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudingly or of necessity; for the Lord loves a cheerful giver." (II Cor. 9:7)


Wes

When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of Glory died, my richest gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride. - Isaac Watts