Is tithing still required in the Church Age?

Question:

Is Tithing still required in this present Church Age?

Answer:

In the Old Testament, the tithes were used to sustain the work of God (providing for the priests, needs for the Tabernacle or Temple, etc.). Nehemiah 12:44 says, “And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for THE TITHES, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities THE PORTIONS OF THE LAW FOR THE PRIESTS AND LEVITES: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.”Continue reading

Who really has the authority to start a local church?

Question:

What does the Bible teach about Church organization.  As I study the churches’ history, I am finding the beginning of the church to be a question. Some say a church must be started by a church. (I believe this is the best way if not the only way) I am local church all the way. Some say it must be started by an ordained minister, but not a church. I am familiar with some of the arguments, but as I seek direction here all the information I can get will be helpful. I love your web site…Continue reading

Should people come forward to the altar in church services?

Question:

In our Baptist church most Sundays people don’t go to the altar. I usually do to pray for myself, the church, lost souls and sick people. I am planning on doing another sermon in Oct on “The Church-The body of Christ”. In that sermon I want to bring up the importance of coming to the altar. Yes, I know that salvation, repentance, and prayer can come from anywhere, including when they are sitting in the pews, but there is nothing like the power of going to the altar. I would like to express this, but honestly can think of anyway of doing it. Most “Altar” referals go back to the Old Testament and Law. Any ideas? Anologies?Continue reading