Reigners Radio

THE CODIFIED LAW (The Written Law of Moses) Tithing Instituted as Part of the Covenant The Tithe Goes to the Levites Israel was directed to tithe directly to the Levites, which was set aside as a tithe of the people to be holy unto the Lord. It was to be their payment, since they would be completely devoted to the administration and implementation of the tabernacle of the Lord and its ordinances, feasts, etc. They were to spend all of their time ministering to the Lord and to His people. The Levites were to tithe to the Lord, in the form of a heave offering, which was in turn offered to Aaron and his family, or whomever was the High Priest. THE TITHE DESCRIBED HERE WAS SET ASIDE FOR THE LEVITES AND HIGH PRIEST. The Tithe of the Feasts The Israelites were instructed as to where to go to give their tithes (wherever the tabernacle/presence of God was), and the manner in which they should be eaten (as a family/nation, with rejoicing, especially including the Levites). THIS TITHE WAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE FEAST

"Tithe" as a Noun simply means "tenth." In many places in scripture the word is simply a number. It is also used as a verb, or an activity God requires as partial fulfillment of His covenant with Israel. Elements of a Covenant Both parties agree to it, so there is an underlying assumption that each participant gets something out of it. The parties involved are Israel and God; the conditions of compliance are that if Israel will keep all the commandments and the precepts, God will be their God, and Israel will be His people. The consequences are long, happy, healthy lives; basically material blessings. Failure to keep ALL of the law would result in God bringing judgment upon His people. There were many requirements of the law, only one of which was the tithe. "Tithe" as a Verb If the Israelites did their part, to fulfill the commandments (there were hundreds) and the precepts, then God was obligated by His Word to fulfill His part, and take care of and bless them. The Levites were not the first to tithe; m

One of the most divisive issues in the church continues to be regarding tithing. Many misunderstand the term, its use in the scriptures and its meaning for the church today. We will be looking at the topic from as clear a perspective as possible, based on the scriptures. The act of tithing is clearly delineated in the scriptures, but a misunderstanding of the ways the term is used in scriptures and what happened at the Cross and Resurrection has caused many Christians to continue to be brought under the heavy weights of the Pharisees. The scriptures can generally be broken down into the following timeframes: 1. PreCodification of The Law (before the law was written down); 2. The Codified Law (the written law); 3. Additions to the Law (included in post-Torah books of the Bible), 4. The Transition (when Jesus taught under the law), 5. The Fulness of Times: Grace! (from the Resurrection until whatever comes next).  For clarity sake, and to see the progression of God’s unfolding plan, we will review the sc

Ways to approach disagreements over spirituality within the church, family and occupations. We all want to think that those we care about or respect are open to hearing new opinions, thoughts and even correction. Unfortunately, that often isn't the case... Do you take the risk of breaking the relationship, possibly being asked to leave a fellowship or relationship, because you start to see things differently from other people? This causes us to ask ourselves what is more important -- relationship to God or friendship with others. Not that they are mutually exclusive -- far from it -- but it helps to have options ahead of time, knowing the likelihood that you will run up against both the religious system and the world system.      

What Does Knowing God by Cultivating Quietness Look Like? Confidence The Christian learning to depend on God is confident of His relationship. When you know where to go to get the answers, strength or healing you need, you are willing to take risks and make mistakes. When you know God, you also know the Truth, the Way and the Life. Guidance and Instruction The Christian learning to depend on God is consciously and unconsciously led by God. He provides whatever is necessary for each situation, drawing us by creating an ever greater need for guidance and instruction. He reveals His heart for us, and for others, inspiring an ever-growing hunger and thirst. He reveals His plans, purposes, and heart, giving us rest, direction and motivation. God’s Purposes Are Fulfilled When we are dependent on Him, and let Him do what He wants through us, we know that whatever needs to get done will get done. His plans are endlessly creative, and His strategies are full of mystery, intrigue and adventure. Regardless of the

Recognition Experience Comrades Fellowship with Him Words cannot express what this is like, though we share our various experiences. He shares His secret plans with those He trusts. We can be confident that our fellowship with Him is worth whatever the cost. Rest Even in the midst of strife, His peace engulfs, protects, preserves and restores us. The assurance of His Personal Pre-sence strengthens, upholds and shelters us, regardless of the circumstances. Preparation The Lord rewards our dependence, our willingness to let Him be God, by preparing us for what’s next. We know that whatever it is, we’ll be ready, and can look forward not only to each new day but to what’s to come in the next age. Conclusion: What Does Knowing God by Cultivating Quietness Look Like? Confidence The Christian learning to depend on God is confident of His relationship. When you know where to go to get the answers, strength or healing you need, you are willing to take risks and make mistakes. When you know God, you also know t

Recognition There will be occasions when the recognition will be public, and times when it will be private and personal. In many cases the Lord likes to show off through His people; we can consider it an extension and a reflection of His high regard for us when He manifests Himself publicly on our behalf. How do you respond to recognition? Just say, “Thanks!” Experience Our confidence will also grow as we personally experience the integrity and faithfulness of God in a variety of circum-stances. HE comes through for His people, often in spite of our efforts instead of because of our efforts. Comrades He provides fellowship with others with shared goals of dependence. He knows what we need, and is generous with His friendships. The more dependent we are on God, the closer we become to others who are travelling that same narrow path. Be willing also to accept friendship with those the Lord brings across your path that may not have the same vision or goals, accepting and receiving what they have for you uncond

Hindrances to Ministry The World System The most damaging manifestation of the world system in Christianity is in the form of religious organization. In order to expose and deny the world system, which says that if you are in the center of God’s will nothing bad will happen, at some point the Lord brings us through experiences we would not choose for ourselves. The Flesh For many, the temptation of the flesh is to rely on our own strength once we get into the ministry. We recognize that God has planted our feet on a path, but we assume ownership of the journey. So He crosses our path to expose our flesh; that even in our greatest strength we can do nothing on our own. The Devil Any believer learning to depend on God is automatically on the devil’s “Hit List.” With personal dependence comes personal warfare; ignorance of his influence is surrender to it. Rewards of Ministry Recognition There will be occasions when the recognition will be public, and times when it will be private and personal.   Experien

The Cost of Ministry School of the Spirit School of the Prophets The King’s College (for the Sons of God) For some who have endured the training of the School of the Prophets, the Lord extends an invitation to enter the King’s College. When the Lord asks, “Who will go for us?” there is a response in this one’s heart, “Here am I, send me.” This is the difference between “going” and “being sent.” Hindrances to Ministry The greatest hindrances to dependent ministry are the world system, our flesh and the devil. The World System The most damaging manifestation of the world system in Christianity is in the form of religious organization. In order to expose and deny the world system, which says that if you are in the center of God’s will nothing bad will happen, at some point in time the Lord brings us through experiences we would not choose for ourselves. The Flesh For many, the temptation of the flesh is to rely on our own strength once we get into the ministry. We recognize that God has planted our feet on

School of the Spirit (for all Saints, the Children of God) When we become a spirit being, we automatically enter the School of the Spirit. This is not a choice we make or qualify for due to a test we take, but a response to the desire of God Himself. His Spirit indwells us to reveal the Father, bringing us eventually into full stature of a son, spirit, soul and body. Similar to kindergarten, the tuition is free, and the basic skills, tests and requirements are minimal. Most Christians fall into this category, as they are content to spend enough time with God so that they know they’re going to heaven when they die and know how to pray when they need something. School of the Prophets (for the Friends of God) For our purposes, the term “prophets” simply refers to someone who hears from God, then speaks or acts accordingly. This school is for anyone who desires to be used of God to share what God has given them, regardless of their specific ministry. Because these ministers speak for the Lord, they must go throu

Preparation for Ministry If the Lord sends you, He is responsible for your training and preparation. Though He may choose to use opportunities presented by organized religions, if you’re not taught by Him, you’re still not taught. * Put Aside Your Own Desires Part of the process of the Lord bringing you into greater dependence on Himself is a greater experience of His giving nature. Admit to and embrace what you want! Then relinquish it to the Lord to do with as He pleases. * Put Aside Expectations As the Lord draws or instructs you into certain areas, don’t run out ahead of Him, and try to “take it from here.” * Start with a Clean Slate, with Yourself, Others and with God Ask the Lord if there are any relationships, debts, misconceptions you need to clear up. * Make Yourself Available Don’t be surprised if the first things He does is start to put demands on your time, resources, and patience to reveal areas where you aren’t as available to Him as you thought. * Count the Cost Vocational Ministry is clo

Preparation for Ministry If the Lord sends you, He is responsible for your training and preparation. Though He may choose to use opportunities presented by organized religions, if you’re not taught by Him, you’re still not taught. * Put Aside Your Own Desires Part of the process of the Lord bringing you into greater dependence on Himself is a greater experience of His giving nature. Admit to and embrace what you want! Then relinquish it to the Lord to do with as He pleases. * Put Aside Expectations As the Lord draws or instructs you into certain areas, don’t run out ahead of Him, and try to “take it from here.” * Start with a Clean Slate, with Yourself, Others and with God Ask the Lord if there are any relationships, debts, misconceptions you need to clear up. * Make Yourself Available Don’t be surprised if the first things He does is start to put demands on your time, resources, and patience to reveal areas where you aren’t as available to Him as you thought. * Count the Cost Vocational Ministry is clo

Conclusion to Ministry & Money Here are some more common reasons people give for wanting to be involved in ministry: “God healed and set me free. Now I want to heal and free others.” The more the Lord frees us to receive Himself, the more we are likely to want to help others. “I need to help people; I’m happiest ministering to people.” Many people seek to enter ministry because they are a good speaker, enjoy working with people, or want the attention. “I’m just following the Great Commission to ‘GO’.” Take note that the Lord said this to a specific group that had already received His training and relationship—HE said it! “It looks easy, and with all the tax breaks, a lot of money is involved.” Many who enter the ministry (especially those who work FOR ministries) have the idea that it really isn’t “work.” “Even if God didn’t have this ministry planned for me, I’m sure He appreciates all the work I’ve done for Him.” There are only two options: If the project is not being completed through dependence

Here are some more common reasons people give for wanting to be involved in ministry: “My parents were ministers; the mantle has fallen on my generation now. Besides, what else would I do?” The Lord’s ministry can’t be passed down from one generation to the next because relationship, His Personal Presence, can’t be passed down. “I want to be able to spend all my energy, efforts and time with God. Being involved in public ministry will keep me safe and in His will.” But the church, and ministry in particular, was never meant to be a haven from the world or a guarantee against making mistakes. “I can do it better than what I see being done.” This probably disqualifies you from that project, at least for now. “Look at all God has done for me! The least I can do for Him is serve Him and His people.” You’re not doing the Lord any favors by trying to do His work for Him. “I want my life to mean something. I want it to have eternal consequences and rewards.” None of us knows what is coming next, so to try to ma

Here are some more common reasons people give for wanting to be involved in ministry: “My parents were ministers; the mantle has fallen on my generation now. Besides, what else would I do?” The Lord’s ministry can’t be passed down from one generation to the next because relationship, His Personal Presence, can’t be passed down. “I want to be able to spend all my energy, efforts and time with God. Being involved in public ministry will keep me safe and in His will.” But the church, and ministry in particular, was never meant to be a haven from the world or a guarantee against making mistakes. “I can do it better than what I see being done.” This probably disqualifies you from that project, at least for now. “Look at all God has done for me! The least I can do for Him is serve Him and His people.” You’re not doing the Lord any favors by trying to do His work for Him. “I want my life to mean something. I want it to have eternal consequences and rewards.” None of us knows what is coming next, so to try to ma

Here are some more common reasons people give for wanting to be involved in ministry: “My parents were ministers; the mantle has fallen on my generation now. Besides, what else would I do?” The Lord’s ministry can’t be passed down from one generation to the next because relationship, His Personal Presence, can’t be passed down. “I want to be able to spend all my energy, efforts and time with God. Being involved in public ministry will keep me safe and in His will.” But the church, and ministry in particular, was never meant to be a haven from the world or a guarantee against making mistakes. “I can do it better than what I see being done.” This probably disqualifies you from that project, at least for now. “Look at all God has done for me! The least I can do for Him is serve Him and His people.” You’re not doing the Lord any favors by trying to do His work for Him. “I want my life to mean something. I want it to have eternal consequences and rewards.” None of us knows what is coming next, so to try to ma

Here are some more common reasons people give for wanting to be involved in ministry: “A true prophet prophesied over me, it was confirmed, and I knew in my heart.” If a particular project (ministry) has been assigned to us by God, He is the only One Who can confirm it. “My parents were ministers; the mantle has fallen on my generation now. Besides, what else would I do?” The Lord’s ministry can’t be passed down from one generation to the next because relationship, His Personal Presence, can’t be passed down. “I want to be able to spend all my energy, efforts and time with God. Being involved in public ministry will keep me safe and in His will.” But the church, and ministry in particular, was never meant to be a haven from the world or a guarantee against making mistakes. “I can do it better than what I see being done.” This probably disqualifies you from that project, at least for now. “Look at all God has done for me! The least I can do for Him is serve Him and His people.” You’re not doing the Lord a

Members of a church or supporters of ministries aren’t doing ministers any favors by supporting them financially if they aren’t ministering the life of God, as evidenced by freedom, healing and rest in their own lives and in the lives of those they minister to. When we fail to seek and hear from God regarding who to support financially, we rob ourselves of the riches that others have already purchased. In this sense, the church is getting what she’s paid for; we have available all the conferences, books, movies, messages, schools, teachings and programs we can stand, yet we experience very little of the direct relationship with God that changes, frees and heals us. Of course, if God tells you to give a certain amount to a certain person or ministry, it doesn’t matter what they are teaching or even if you agree with them. Confirm the source, then follow through. Likewise, if the Lord decides that the task He has for you requires you to be unencumbered by an occupation, He is responsible for your compensatio

Members of a church or supporters of ministries aren’t doing ministers any favors by supporting them financially if they aren’t ministering the life of God, as evidenced by freedom, healing and rest in their own lives and in the lives of those they minister to. When we fail to seek and hear from God regarding who to support financially, we rob ourselves of the riches that others have already purchased. In this sense, the church is getting what she’s paid for; we have available all the conferences, books, movies, messages, schools, teachings and programs we can stand, yet we experience very little of the direct relationship with God that changes, frees and heals us. Of course, if God tells you to give a certain amount to a certain person or ministry, it doesn’t matter what they are teaching or even if you agree with them. Confirm the source, then follow through. Likewise, if the Lord decides that the task He has for you requires you to be unencumbered by an occupation, He is responsible for your compensatio

Money isn’t important to God, but because it’s important to us, He greatly uses it to accomplish His purposes for us—dependence, healing and exposing our flesh. If cooking was the most important thing to us, cooking would be what the Lord used the most to get our attention. For those on the receiving end of true (Life-giving) ministry, though the Lord will honor and care for His ministers, that doesn’t let you off the hook. Because every minister has bills to pay, if that minister or ministry has shared what the Lord has given them, and you have received it, you are obligated to respond in kind, regardless of whether you are supporting other ministries, churches or charitable organizations. One of the reasons there is a lack of Present, Immediate, Applicable Truth and Power from the Lord (and there is an incredible, unnecessary lack), is because so many of those who know how to depend on the Lord and are willing and able to share it, are instead working at secular jobs (or in religious organizations) just t