The True Essence of New Testament Giving: A Personal Journey of Reformation and Rediscovery

In today’s Christian circles, the topic of tithing often stirs passionate debates. Some view it as a fundamental obligation, while others believe it’s a vestige of Old Testament law. But when we closely examine the New Testament, something profound emerges: there is no mandate for tithing.

Tithing is notably absent from the practices of the early church, and neither Jesus nor the apostles participated in it. In fact, the New Testament gives us a different perspective on generosity. The apostles didn’t preach a 10% tithe. Paul didn’t tithe; Peter didn’t tithe. Instead, they championed a spirit of generosity—a willing and cheerful giving rooted in love, not obligation.

Apostolic Foundations: A Generous Spirit, Not a Percentage

The book of Acts is a blueprint for the early church’s generosity. The believers didn’t bring 10% of their income to the apostles—they sold their lands and houses to ensure no one in the church went without. It was radical, selfless, and completely voluntary.

Giving in the New Testament is about freedom, joy, and love, not about fulfilling a fixed percentage. It’s about experiencing God’s grace so profoundly that giving becomes a natural outpouring of that grace. The focus isn’t on what God demands but on what we willingly give because we’ve been transformed by His love.

A Ministry Misaligned: My Personal Awakening

I wasn’t always aware of this truth. I started my ministry in 1984, traveling across the globe, preaching in churches, and raising money. For a time, I was the ‘darling’ of every church. I lived with a convoy, surrounded by entourage, and accompanied by policemen. But something felt off. Despite the success, the recognition, and the material comforts, I felt empty.

I was caught in the cycle of "give, take, give, take," raising money, collecting offerings, but my soul was unfulfilled. It felt hollow. I began questioning everything: “Is this really what God wants? Is this what ministry is about—transactions, not transformation?”

It was a difficult period for me. I confided in my wife, expressing my frustration and my growing sense that this wasn’t right. We decided to leave the church and embark on a spiritual journey of rediscovery, seeking answers in prayer and reflection.

A Turning Point: Andrew Wommack and Theological Clarity

During this time, I came across the teachings of Andrew Wommack. Now, I’ll be honest, I wasn’t drawn to his gentle speaking style, but his theology challenged me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. As I devoured his books, it became clear where I had gone wrong.

I had drifted away from the true essence of the gospel. I realized that my understanding of theology and Christology had been flawed. I was focused on the wrong things—material success, public recognition, and the mechanics of ministry—rather than the heart of the message of Christ.

With this newfound clarity, I returned to my church and stood before my congregation. “I owe you an apology,” I said. “All the things I taught about tithing and giving were wrong. Please forgive me. I want to make things right.”

Half of my congregation left after that sermon. But I wasn’t shaken. What mattered to me was standing for the truth, even if it meant losing followers. I was determined to build a ministry grounded in biblical truth, not man-made tradition.

The Myth of “What God Cannot Do Does Not Exist”

In recent years, a popular saying has gained traction in Christian circles: “What God cannot do does not exist.” At first glance, it sounds profound, even comforting. But let’s dig deeper. Is it true?

The Bible tells us that there are many things God cannot do. He cannot lie, He cannot steal, He cannot die—yet all of these things exist in the world. James 1:13 says, “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted by God; for God cannot be tempted by evil.”

This phrase, while catchy, reflects a sentimental, rather than theological, approach to faith. It’s important to root our beliefs in truth, not emotion. Christianity isn’t built on viral sayings; it’s built on the solid foundation of God’s Word.

Miracles: Real and True, But Not the End Goal

There are those who might think I’m skeptical of miracles. Let me be clear: I believe in miracles. I’ve experienced them firsthand. I’ve prayed for the blind, and they’ve received sight. I’ve prayed for the dead, and they’ve risen. I even carry a scar on my hand from one of these experiences.

But here’s where I draw the line: God isn’t desperate to perform miracles. Miracles, as awe-inspiring as they are, are not the ultimate goal. They point to something far greater: eternal life. The end goal of Christianity is not to be dazzled by miracles but to live in the reality of God’s eternal promise. Miracles are a means, not the end.

When I see modern-day crusades, where everyone in the crowd seems to have the same brand-new crutches and wheelchairs, I can’t help but feel uneasy. Are these real demonstrations of God’s power, or have we commodified miracles to fit a certain image?

Miracles are powerful and real, but they aren’t the substance of our faith. The ultimate miracle is the gift of eternal life, the transformation of our souls, and the redemption offered through Christ.

Moving Forward: A Call for Truth

As I stand here today, I’m committed to teaching the truth, no matter the cost. I won’t shy away from challenging popular beliefs or correcting my past mistakes. The church is not a business. Ministry is not a transaction. It’s about lives transformed by the power of God’s love, and it’s about truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

The journey of faith is not about maintaining the status quo or appeasing the masses. It’s about following the example of the apostles and living out a historic, apostolic faith, one rooted in generosity, truth, and a focus on eternity.

What God cannot do does indeed exist—and that’s a good thing. Because it means we serve a God of integrity, truth, and unwavering love. It’s time to let go of sentimental slogans and cling to the deep, transformative power of God’s Word.

A Life Built on Truth

As you reflect on your own faith, I encourage you to ask yourself: Are you living a life built on the truth of God’s Word, or are you caught up in popular ideas that may not align with Scripture? Faith isn’t about what’s easy to believe or what feels good; it’s about living in the light of truth, even when it challenges you.

True generosity, real miracles, and a faith that endures—it’s all found in the Word of God. And it’s time we return to it.