Tithes vs Offerings: Is there always an obligation to give?

702's Relebogile Mabotja speaks to Pastor Tebalo Masisi from Promised Land Church of Jesus Christ.

Listen below:

In her Belief Matters feature today, Relebogile delves into the difference between tithes and offerings.

Pastor Masisi explains that the literal meaning of the word 'tithe' is 'one tenth'.

"Traditionally... in the bible, it was when one tenth of what one has received is actually given back to God, or is given back to the church."

- Pastor Tebalo Masisi, Promised Land Church of Jesus Christ

By comparison, an offering is what is given beyond the tithes.

"It is actually called a free will offering... there is no certain percentage that is applied to it, you are giving out of your heart."

- Pastor Tebalo Masisi, Promised Land Church of Jesus Christ

Relebogile asks about those who prefer to donate to the community, instead of tithing to the church.

Pastor Masisi further elaborates on its biblical origin, and what the tithes are supposed to be for.

"When we look at it from the bible point of view, it was supposed to be given to the priests that are serving in the church - not actually to the widows... to the orphans."

- Pastor Tebalo Masisi, Promised Land Church of Jesus Christ

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the discussion.