Tearing the Blanket
Arthur Vess's sermon 'Tearing the Blanket' calls for honesty and diligence in tithing, emphasizing God's awareness of our contributions.
Arthur Vess emphasizes the importance of being honest and diligent in tithing, cautioning against the excuse of giving more than the tithe without proper record-keeping. He highlights the need for self-reflection and implementing a systematic approach to tithing, reminding the congregation that God keeps accurate accounts of our offerings. Vess stresses the significance of giving the correct amount to God, just as one would in any financial transaction, as God cannot be deceived or mocked.
Text
10. Excuse Ten: "I give more than the tithe." How do you know that you give more than the tithe? Do you keep books? Do not be so liberal; (?) cut it down to the tithe and keep books and you will be shocked at the little you were giving, and surprised at the amount of the tithe. A small amount seems larger to give when you are self-centered and stingy. Be honest enough to check upon yourself. Put some system into it. God keeps books. Even the hairs of your head are all numbered, and Jesus sits over against the treasury keeping tab on your tithe and offerings.
If you were getting 10% from an investment, you would want those in charge of your money to keep books, would you not?
You would not want them to guess at it and then say, "Oh I pay you more than your part," and make no pretensions at stating the correct amount. But you say, "God knows the amount." Yes, and he knows that you are not tithing too. Pay God the correct amount just as you do your groceryman. You would not guess at your account at the store and tell the merchant that you had paid more than was due when you had kept no books. You cannot fool God -- "God is not mocked."
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Understanding the concept of tithing - The importance of honesty in giving - God's perspective on our contributions
- II points: - The dangers of self-deception in financial matters - Keeping records of our giving - The comparison to financial investments
- III points: - God's expectations for our stewardship - The consequences of neglecting tithing - Encouragement to be diligent in giving
Key Quotes
“God keeps books.” — Arthur Vess
“You cannot fool God -- 'God is not mocked.'” — Arthur Vess
“Pay God the correct amount just as you do your groceryman.” — Arthur Vess
Application Points
- Regularly review your giving to ensure it aligns with biblical principles.
- Keep accurate records of your contributions to foster accountability.
- Approach your financial responsibilities to God with the same seriousness as you would with any investment.