Thank you for the question on Bible College teaching on tithing, “Does Bible College teach inspiring pastors that their congregation should pay 10% tithes, or is this something they do on their own?”
Having graduated from a non-denominational Bible College in my undergrad studies, I was taught the the both Biblical theology and Practical Theology. The Bible College that I attended discussed in the ecclesiastical class that included discussion on offering. Most independent, non-denominational Bible Colleges do not advocate that churches “should” pay 10% while denominational Bible Colleges may advocate that church members give 10%.
As a pastor, I have taught on giving to the Lord. The principle is not based on church membership or on Old Testament Law, but on the principle of giving out of a cheerful and willing heart. It should not be under compulsion as the Apostle Paul teaches in II Corinthians 8–9.
A particular church may in their church constitution/by-law state their membership requirements that may include 0% of their income. It is reasonable to ask members to give an offering through the church to the Lord. A church has an annual budget that includes pastoral staff, ministries expenses of children, youth, adults, facility expenses, mission expenses, Deacon Funds, etc.
Normally when a pastor is called to a church, there is the verbal or contractual agreement to abide by the Church’s Constitution or By-Laws. The pastor does not set the standard or requirement on giving. S/he may teach on Biblical giving when it is appropriate as in a building fund. Most pastors are very conscious that speaking on giving is a very sensitive topic to the members.
On a side and personal note, I believe the Lord understands a person living on or near the poverty line may not be able to give the 10% but 5%. That is honoring to the Lord based on what one has. On the other hand, a person/couple’s income is $300,000 can give that 10% but it would be my hope that the person would be willing to give more than the 10% to help others in the church or in the community. I believe that many Christians do give very generously because the Lord has blessed them.
Bible Colleges teaches the Word of God while it is the local church which establishes the Church member’s requirement. The pastor works under the guideline of the church or denomination that calls him/her.
SUMMARY: Pastors do not establish the percentage of giving by its members. The percentage of giving is established by the Church Constitution/By-Law.
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