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Template:Tithing

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[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new "Fathers upon the Earth," but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these City-States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his, Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's, ''First Apology'', we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977), </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for. And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands.” These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak.''

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues of Judean Persons were just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was King. How many kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as King meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T19:20:52Z

Susan B: /* Standing */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new "Fathers upon the Earth," but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these City-States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his, Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's, ''First Apology'', we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977), </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for. And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak.''

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues of Judean Persons were just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was King. How many kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as King meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T19:12:16Z

Susan B: /* Standing */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new "Fathers upon the Earth," but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these City-States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his, Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's, ''First Apology'', we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977), </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for. And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Elderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak.''

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues of Judean Persons were just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was King. How many kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as King meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T19:11:25Z

Susan B: /* Standing */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new "Fathers upon the Earth," but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these City-States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his, Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's, ''First Apology'', we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977), </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Elderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak.''

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues of Judean Persons were just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was King. How many kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as King meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:56:29Z

Susan B: /* Justin and the Early Church */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new "Fathers upon the Earth," but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these City-States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his, Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's, ''First Apology'', we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977), </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:52:22Z

Susan B: /* Melchizedek */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new "Fathers upon the Earth," but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these City-States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his, Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:50:03Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new "Fathers upon the Earth," but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:46:33Z

Susan B: /* Melchizedek */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken. One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the father of the family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:40:35Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers.]]” Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:39:11Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:34:42Z

Susan B: /* What is Right */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
---------------

== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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2017-01-22T18:32:50Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:32:05Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9.

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Ddaughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:30:37Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9 Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Ddaughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:29:46Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
---------------

== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref> If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they lose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Ddaughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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2017-01-22T18:27:51Z

Susan B: /* The Unjust Steward */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon father and mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Ddaughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the father and mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:23:14Z

Susan B: /* The Levitical, or Sacred Tithe */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:22:08Z

Susan B: /* The Levitical, or sacred tithe */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or Sacred Tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:18:05Z

Susan B: /* Types of Tithes */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[Levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service?''

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni,"'' and it was to be consumed in the ''gates.'' I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.

24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani.'' It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers,'' widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God.'' God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:10:58Z

Susan B: /* National Tithe */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service''?

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni"'', and it was to be consumed in the ''gates''. I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the
Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani''. It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers'', widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God''. God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:08:51Z

Susan B: /* National Tithe */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.

The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their father. They not only honored their father and mother, but also their grandfathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their father and even their grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest Father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights," or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the family, through that father. Regarding any problems that arose in a family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the husband’s family.

For thousands of years, the family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service''?

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni"'', and it was to be consumed in the ''gates''. I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the
Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani''. It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers'', widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God''. God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T18:00:53Z

Susan B: /* Voluntary Tax */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent," but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The Father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.
The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their Father. They not only honored their Father and Mother, but also their Grand Fathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their Father and even their Grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest Father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights", or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural Father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his Father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the Family, through that Father. Regarding any problems that arose in a Family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the Husband’s Family.

For thousands of years, the Family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service''?

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni"'', and it was to be consumed in the ''gates''. I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the
Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani''. It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers'', widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God''. God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T17:59:51Z

Susan B: /* The Peoples Unit */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge." This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men," bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent", but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The Father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.
The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their Father. They not only honored their Father and Mother, but also their Grand Fathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their Father and even their Grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest Father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights", or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural Father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his Father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the Family, through that Father. Regarding any problems that arose in a Family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the Husband’s Family.

For thousands of years, the Family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service''?

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni"'', and it was to be consumed in the ''gates''. I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the
Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani''. It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers'', widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God''. God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Template:Tithing

2017-01-22T17:57:15Z

Susan B: /* To Tithe or not to Tithe */

[[Image:Fract10s-100s.jpg|348px|left|thumb|link=The Living Network|The predominant free form of government throughout history has been based on [[Tens|10s, 100s, 1000s]].]]

== To Tithe or Not to Tithe ==

The debate about tithing or not is usually argued with little understanding of it and its purpose. Tithing had a purpose and a function in society which has little to do with what people imagine tithing is today. Understanding the purpose of tithing in society may resolve that debate only to raise another.

== The Peoples Unit ==

A tithing or tything as a congregation of families was an historic English legal, administrative or territorial unit, originally one tenth of a hundred, and later a subdivision of a manor or civil parish.

This term tithing originated around the 10th century, when a ''tithing'' meant a group of ten adult males (over the age of 12), each of whom were responsible for the other members' actions and behavior in a system of ''frith-borh'' or "peace-pledge". This mutual pledge bound the ten men to gather into a loose body or team that shared responsibilities and duties to each other and to the rest of society.

While this gathering of ten men or Elders of families stems back to ancient times, the ''frith-borh'' or ''Frankpledge'' was required by King Canute II the Great of Denmark and England (d. 1035). Traditionally this ten-man group, referred to as a ''teothung'' or tything, i.e. "assembly of ten men", bore actual legal responsibility for the actions of others when charged with a crime or violation of rights.

Prior to the rise of kings and other forms of centralized governments, the tithing was bound by charity and honor as a brotherhood of respect, virtue and personal allegiance or faith. They date back to the most ancient of times, even prior to the [[Tens|ten family]] congregations of [[Moses]] and the [[tithing]] of [[Abraham]] to [[Melchizedek]] and Abraham's own societal [[Altars|altars]].

== Voluntary Tax ==

The custom of tithing predated Moses. Abraham tithed<Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” </Ref> to "the righteous king of peace" <Ref> Genesis 14:20 “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him [Melchizedek king of Salem] tithes of all.”qdu-yklm qdu= righteous, yklm= king Mlv – of peace </Ref> after he had left Haran and his Father's house.

The word ''tithing'' came from the Hebrew word ‘asar [rse] meaning ten. It is identical to other Hebrew words which mean rich or wealth. <Ref> 06238 rve `ashar, rich 14, enrich 3, richer 1; to be or become rich or wealthy, enrich, pretend to be rich </Ref>

It did not actually mean "ten percent", but was derived from the fact that a congregation of Israelites consisted of ten families. The idea that people would gather in groups of ten families is a form of self government.
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== Honor Thy Father ==

To honor thy father and mother as we are directed in the Ten Commandments was meant to provide that “thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” The tithe was originally a voluntary contribution granted by the eldest Father of a family unit, and given to a minister of his choosing. It was given to support men who provided an important element to a structured and healthy society. If this gifting was properly done, the union and discipline of the whole community was strengthened. The bonds of society were maintained by the virtue of its people. Survival in the face of disaster and calamity was assured by that virtue.

An elder in a community was often a grandfather, or even great grandfather, as head of a large family group. It was usually this individual who was responsible for a tithe to a minister as the head of what counted as one family. This family group gathered with others in practical groups of ten. This pattern was common amongst governments of the people, by the people and for the people. It was one of the most common patterns of free government throughout history. It is not a centralized government of control, but common and natural networks of mutual charity. "[O]ur modern reliance on government to make law and establish order is not the historical norm.” <Ref> Part I of The Enterprise of Law: Justice without the State by Dr. Bruce L. Benson. </Ref> Tithing in early Israel was an essential part of providing support in a national government structure that held the people together with nothing more than natural bonds of faith and charity with an element of hope. <Ref> Exodus 18:21 “Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of [[Tens|tens]]:” </Ref>

The right of a [[Fathers|father]] to the labor of his sons was a natural procreational right as the giver of life. From this foundational right, a “father” or Patri received these pecuniary resources given by way of his sons and grandsons. By this, a father is helped and supported in his leadership role, and typically, a father could contribute a part of these resources as his tithe to support his elected minister.

This right of patrimony was passed down from father to son, from generation to generation upon the death of the natural father. It was also possible to transfer that right. ''Patrimonialism'' as a form of government was drawn from the family structures. Patrimonial monarchies and similar forms of government, where an elected official acted as the father of a nation, all originated from this idea of a father's natural right of authority over his children.

From the Latin and Greek word for father we produce words like patrimony as, “an estate inherited from one's father or ancestor” or a patriot, “a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.”

The practice of the leaders and rulers of government being called “father” was common in the days of Augustus, Tiberius, and Jesus. The Emperor was called Patronus <Ref>'''Patronus''' (Lat.) In Roman Law. A modification of the Latin word Pater, father. A denomination applied by Romulus to the first senators of Rome, and which they afterwards bore.” “A person who stood in the relation of protector to another who was called his ‘client.’” Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. page 1338. </Ref> and Senators called Patres (father) or Conscripti Patres, the Conscripted Fathers.

: “Excise (tribute), in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref> Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Caesarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>
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== National Tithe ==

The tithing in early Israel, was merely the result of natural need of society to care for one another. This fundamental idea of support and honor within the family was expanded to a local community and then to a national level through a network of volunteer ministers serving congregations of people.

The family unit, instituted by the God of creation,<Ref> [[Genesis 2]]:24 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” </Ref> was the building block of society and the pattern from which it sprang. The Father of each family was the only king anyone would have to answer to, unless they entered into covenants with other men who sought to rule over others -- like Cain, Lemech, or Nimrod.
The unmarried sons and daughters served the family under the benevolent leadership of their Father. They not only honored their Father and Mother, but also their Grand Fathers, so that he would have the resources to sustain the whole family and support the community through charity. This was both a natural and divine mandate.

* “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12 <Ref> Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Matthew 19:19, Mark 7:10, Luke 18:20. </Ref>

* “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.” Leviticus 19:18

* “Honour thy father and [thy] mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 19:19

The word honour <Ref> 03513 dbk kabad v AV-honour 34, glorify 14, honourable 14, heavy 13, harden 7, glorious 5, sore 3, made heavy 3, chargeable 2, great 2, many 2, heavier 2, promote 2, misc 10; 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured. </Ref> is from a Hebrew word that means heavy, make heavy or abundant. When sons were married, they left their Fathers house, but they continued to give support and increase to their Father and even their Grandfathers. These contributions were not called "tithing," but were honorariums of respect to their father, love for their family, and they were received as a matter of right. Those funds were used to strengthen and prosper the whole family and could be shared with neighbors.

These granted gratuities were utilized as a common fund. This domestic arrangement functioned like a family bank. It was made available as an emergency resource based on natural bonds of love and caring. It was commonly managed by the eldest son in each family, who, being first born, held the role of priest within that family unit. The eldest Father acted as the family king or overseer. The family unit could easily include dozens of individual families and span several generations.

No man proclaimed himself Sui Juris, "in possession of his full rights", or, as the Greeks would say Rhomaios,<Ref> Was Paul a Roman? Was Paul a Roman Citizen or was he Free? http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/paulroman.php </Ref> as long as his natural Father was alive. If a son wanted to marry, he asked his Father for permission, and though he gained a certain independence when he married, he still remained under the coverture of the Family, through that Father. Regarding any problems that arose in a Family, such as a disease, death or injury, the first call for assistance was to the Husband’s Family.

For thousands of years, the Family had been the foundation of all social insurance. It was a bond of both love and mutual caring. But, what if the family broke down under the weight of some familial tragedy, societal upheaval, wars, or earthly catastrophe?

: “All government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery!”<Ref> Jonathon Swift </Ref>

In all forms of governments, some resources are given for the mutual aid of the people, much like a family. Those who manage those pecuniary assets of society are sometimes called priests or administrators. All governments depend on delegated powers which originate from the individual. If a family does not delegate authority by some form of consent there is no legitimate governmental authority beyond the natural right of self protection.

: “What is mine cannot be taken away without consent.”<Ref> Quod meum est sine me auferri non potest. Jenk. Cent. Cas. 251. </Ref>

It is the individual choices that gives birth to governments that can exercise authority. The powers of government may grow by additional application, delegation, or by acquiescence. Even government's power to tax is by consent although the point and bond of that consent may vary.

: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...”<Ref> Congress, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America </Ref>
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== The Character of Society ==

All governments take on the character of their creator, which is the society from which they are formed. Society is “an organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.... a body of individuals living as members of a community; community.” <Ref> Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010. </Ref>Societies can be divided into two types based on their character and their character is based on their virtue as a people or lack of it. Society will take one of two roads in the formation of its government.

In one type of society or government, their administers and leaders compel the offerings of the people. They may choose their administers and leaders, but once chosen, administers and leaders make rules for the people. This type of government may take many forms, but it is not a truly free government because the liberty of choice is turned over to an individual or group who makes rules and laws for the people, imposing duties and obligations upon them. They may be autocratic or democratic, but the power of choice, whether in the hands of a single ruler or the collective, is no longer in the hands of the individual who was endowed with that original right of choice.

A free government operates only by what is freely given, and the daily liberty of choice remains with the people, within their families. In a free government, the right to choose to whom, how much, where, and when the contributions to society will be made remains with the individual members of society. Society is bound by relationships, not by covenants, contract or even constitutions.<Ref> http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/covenants/index.php </Ref>

That responsibility of governing ourselves, when exercised diligently by the people, strengthens the virtuous bonds of society.
If we want better people to make a better world, then we will have to begin where people are made in the family.” <Ref> Braud’s 2nd Enc. by J.M Braud. </Ref>

In both forms of governments, the contributions of the people have a purpose. The means and process by which the government is sustained will shape and mold or alter the people and that purpose. In a less than free government, the people may have some say in this operation, but usually once the power of individual choice shifts or is centralized, a battle begins between those benefactors who exercise authority and the people who had previously been at liberty.

Cain, Lamech, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Caesar and Herod all established a system of forced contribution through a social compact that bound the families of the people under obligations and limited their choices. Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses pursued a government based on free families and free will offerings. In the former, the state became the father of a collective society and government, while the latter remained righteous in their generations.

== Tributary and Society ==

It was over these two form of government that the conflict arose concerning the Gospel of the kingdom preached by John and Jesus Christ and taught by the early Church. Both systems have men who were entrusted with the responsibility of managing these contributions of, for, and by the people of society. These administrators went by many names including kings, priests, and even “[[gods]]” <Ref> There are gods many http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/godsmany.php </Ref> of that government. This was the path or way followed by the Hasmonians, Pharisees and Sadducees of Judea at the time of Christ and continued to bring people under tribute.<Ref> [[Proverbs 12]]:24 “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” </Ref>

'''Tribute is,''' “A sum of money paid by an inferior sovereign or state to a superior potentate, to secure the friendship or protection of the latter.”<Ref> Brande. Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Ed. p. 1757. </Ref> In Israel, the head of every family was sovereign, and there was no king. When the voice of the people <Ref> Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> decided to elect someone who could rule over them, it was called a rejection of God. By 1 Samuel 13:13, God's prophet is calling Saul foolish for compelling tribute from the people.

“Tribute, in its origin, is the patrimonial right of emperors and kings.”<Ref>Vectigal, origina ipsa, jus Cæsarum et regum patrimoniale est. </Ref>The Emperors of Rome were called Patronus meaning “Our Father” to whom the citizens prayed for benefits like their free daily bread and circuses. But these applications for benefits at the expense of their neighbor was a snare and a trap which bound the people.

* Psalms 69:22 "Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap."

* Romans 11:9 "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:" <Ref>[[Proverbs 1]]:10
: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."
: "Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.” </Ref>

* “How doth the city sit solitary, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she [that was] great among the nations, [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become tributary!” (La 1:1)

Saying that the city has become “tributary”<Ref>From the Hebrew word “mac” (mas), meaning “gang/body of forced labourers, task-workers, labour band/gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited … forced service, serfdom, tribute, enforced payment.”On line Bible & Concordance. Woodside Bible Fellowship. </Ref>means the people are forced to serve the government, giving the value of their labor. If the people are forced to work or give the value of their labor to their government, it was called “tribute, or corvée”. <Ref> “Of the twenty-three uses of this term, all but three (Isa 31:8; Lam1:1; Est 10:1) occur early in the literature. The institution of tribute, or corvée,” . From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>These systems of involving “involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king” represent governments mentioned in the Bible as wicked or oppressive, but they come about because of the covetous people who create them.<Ref>Corvee “involves involuntary, unpaid labour, or other service, for' superior power-a feudal lord, a king, or a foreign ruler (Ex 1:11; Est 10:1; Lam 1:1). in Gen. 49:15, Jacob’s blessing on Issachar identifies him as bowing to ‘tribute.’ In Egypt, the Israelites find themselves in that position (Ex 1:11). This unpopular measure, and Rehoboam’s refusal to moderate it, was the immediate cause of the secession of the ten tribes and the establishment of the northern kingdom.”From R. Laird Harris’ ‘Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament’ </Ref>

This is only where the people have asked a government authority to be responsible for their welfare. In the systems of society where there is no social compact, the responsibility of the eldest son as priest within the family remains untouched. The family remains whole and free. The community leaders are volunteers, and the compensation they receive is only by [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]].

In Egypt, they used in a corvée system where they had to pay 20% of what they earned to the government, because they had applied for benefits. They were under tribute. God never wanted them to go back to that Egyptian government type.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The Covenants of the gods, [[Employ]] vs Enslave
: Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-04.mp3
: Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

This is the way Moses set up the government of God. The community contributed to those volunteer titular leaders according to their services and the assistance they provide. These volunteer ministers of society were the first born of a national network of a peculiar people. These ministers, called priests, had a purpose. It was to facilitate that nation in remaining a strong, efficient, and flexible body without diminishing any freedom or liberty which originates within the family.

In a free government, all power remains with the people, and it depends on voluntary leaderships and support with mutual compliance. Each family freely assembled and chose someone to lead them in virtuous service to each other and their neighbors. These volunteer leaders, serving the true needs of the people, also gathered in congregations. Those leaders received [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] of the people according to what was right in their own eyes. Services and provisions were distributed through systems of charity and hope.

== Types of Tithes ==

"Tithe" meant a "tenth" in the Hebrew and in other languages.

=== The Levitical, or sacred tithe ===

* "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth<Ref> [[h04643]] ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘aser \@mah-as-ayr’\@ or ^רשׂעמ^ ma‘asar \@mah-as-ar’\@ and (in pl.) fem. ^הרשׂעמ^ ma‘asrah \@mah-as-raw’\@ from [[h06240]]; n m; AV-tithe 27, tenth part 2, tenth 2, tithing 1; 32 </Ref> in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." [[Numbers 18]]:21

AyinShinReish is the number ten but it you put a Mem in front of it which has to do with something flowing it becomes a [[tithe]]. The phrase "all the tenth" is all the tithe or the flow of the tenth or does it mean all which flows from the [[tens]].

Does that mean the [[levite]] shall get a tenth of all produced by all whom he serves or that he should get what charitably flows from each of ten families ''according to his service''?

* "And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the [[Levites]] after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and [[Levites]] for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the tents of the LORD." [[2 Chronicles 31]]:2

What does it mean ''according to his service''?

* "Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service." [[Numbers 7]]:5

So the critical thing is offerings that are given to God's servants according to their service. If they are not doing a good job, you may not give them a full ten percent. You may still give that amount, but you may bless the ones doing the work, rather than give to those who simply have the position and offer no help. The power is in the hands of the people to keep their public servants honest.

So what course did their service take? What were their duties? Who were these priests and porters? What was "their courses at every gate"? What was their charge and how did they minister?

* "And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the [[Levites]] to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded." 2 Chronicles 8:14

There were three major types of tithe, but they were all for a purpose.

The tithe financed the service of the ministers who were not there just to tickle the ears of the people or make them feel righteous.

One [[tithe]] was called maaser rishon. It was given to the Levite, who in turn tithed to someone called a priest.<Ref>[[Numbers 18]]:24-26 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer [as] an [[h08641|heave offering]] unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.</Ref>

=== The tithe of the feasts ===

A second [[tithe]] was identified as ''"maaser sheni"'', and it was to be consumed in the ''gates''. I have seen it written that it was to support an elaborate feast in Jerusalem around the
Temple.<Ref>[[Deuteronomy 14]]:22 ¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
</Ref>

Many scholars say that the second tithe was taken to Jerusalem during the three pilgrim festivals of [[Passover]], [[Pentecost]], and [[Tabernacles]]. But there was no centralized Jerusalem nor stone temple until later. Besides, Jerusalem is the Hebrew word for double peace, and Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles had a particular social and governmental purpose within this free society. This second type of tithing was instituted before the Israelites inhabited the land of Canaan, long before Jerusalem; it supported the original designs of the feasts.

=== The tithe for the poor ===

The third tithe was the ''maaser ani''. It was an additional tithe for the general poor, including the ''strangers'', widows and orphans.<Ref>Deuteronomy 14:28 "At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay [it] up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest."</Ref>

They were to eat and be satisfied. I am not so sure how satisfied you can be, if you only eat once every three years. Taking care of the widows and orphans was the mission of [[Pure Religion]]. This was the [[Daily ministration]] the Greek Jews spoke of when the Church [[appoint]]ed by Christ first started to function after Pentecost.

Besides [[tithe]]s, there were also peace offerings, and atonement or sin offerings. Burning these things up was a metaphor like casting bread on the waters. All of this giving was to help you learn the practice of giving, which is the ''way of God''. God is the first who ever gave, and tithing leads you to follow in His footsteps. These [[Freewill offerings|freewill offerings]] or charity fostered love and honor. God was the first to foster love and honor. These offerings created unbreakable bonds within society, according to the character of Christ and the righteousness of God.<ref>God formed the first bonds with man in the Garden, Christ makes it possible to renew unbreakable bonds of love between the Father in heaven and His creatures who do the will of the Father. The result of fully doing His will forms unbreakable bonds within society.</ref>

== What is Right ==

* Judges 17:6 “In those days [there was] no king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.”

We often hear preachers referring to this time without a central government or a king, and they say it was a wicked time. Of course wickedness did occur, but the Bible indicates the real rejection of God is when they chose a ruler who began to exercise authority (in the days when there was a king in Israel); that was a wicked time.

Every man doing what is right in his own eyes works fine amongst virtuous people. This is why Jesus said to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, because only righteous people can sustain a free government by faith, hope, charity and the perfect law of liberty.

All societies must pay tribute in support of their government. Most governments compel the tribute of the people, which is called ''tax'', but in Israel they supported their government with [[Freewill offerings]] which included a [[Sacrifice|sacrifice]] called [[Corban]]. Christ preached about this all the time, and he talked about the wicked servant who forced those under him to pay what they should pay freely. <Ref>Matthew 18:32-34 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. </Ref> Paul talked about governments instituted by men who [[2 Samuel 8|rejected God]] and gave to leaders their God given right, their original power to choose. That grant of power by the people to the [[Fathers]] of the earth and [[Benefactors]] who exercised authority allowed them to impose harsh [[Tribute|tribute]], and allowing benefactors to take and take and take from the people, which is the punishment of those wicked people<Ref>Are those who covet their neighbor's goods through the leaders they elect. They will bite one another and be devoured by the very leader who will take and take and take from them as foretold in [[2 Samuel 8]]. </Ref> who rejected [[The Way]] of God through their [[Covetous Practices]].

== The Unjust Steward ==

And then there was the unjust steward who was commended because he forgave debt and only took what the people said they could afford voluntarily.<Ref>Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. </Ref> Applying these parables to the policies of modern public servants and the people who look to them and empower them, many do not meet with Christ's standards and will be counted amongst the wicked.

One of the most common shifts in society is to move from a free society where everyone has the right to choose to be responsible or not, to a society that thinks it has a right to force people to contribute.

We see this with [[Cain]], Lamech, [[Nimrod]] and others. In the case of Abraham, he parted from the ways of Ur, and then even from his own Father, Terah, who established the city of Haran, because Abraham was looking for a better way to live than these city states provided. Abraham was found paying directly to the eldest patriarch of his family group. To abandon Father and Mother would have been considered wrong, even before the [[Ten Commandments]]. Abraham gave up his right to rule and govern his family's estate, which was given to his brother Nahor, and he returned to the ways of the Father in heaven.

* “These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.” [[Genesis 6]]:9

Inheritance of a family passes down from generation to generation. This includes the promises of God. <Ref>[[Exodus 17]]:16 “For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.” </Ref>

If the people go out of the presence of God, and if they covenant with other gods of the world, they loose that which was passed down.

* “Thy kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion [endureth] throughout all generations.” Psalms 145:13

Sons and Daughters had to be manumitted from the natural authority of the Father and Mother<Ref>Call no man Father upon the earth? 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> or abandon them as [[Cain]] did. When the family remained free and loyal to the ways of God, they were righteous in their generations. Those sons and daughters who gave up their God-given rights and appointed men to be their [[Fathers]] on earth often created governments that were not based on righteousness, and they did contrary to the ways of God the Father who art in heaven. These systems would eventually eat out their substance,<Ref>[[Isaiah 51]]:8 “For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” Declaration of Independence</Ref> but they often began with consent.

Before [[Rome]] established emperors, society was already moving from a free republic with systems of charity binding the people and an all-volunteer army supported by contributions. The more the people look to the government, the more reason it had to expand its power with less and less opposition.

: "The real destroyers of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits." <Ref>Plutarch</Ref>

The right of governments to tax was tied to the right of a father’s authority over his children. As that power increased, it became the right of a master over his subjects. We have heard of the free bread and circuses of Rome that fed the apathy of the mob and seduced the people into moral decay. Like over-indulgent fathers, the Roman emperors led their children into corruption and iniquity, or they merely appeased their subjects but kept their power over them.

The subjugation of the people under this new Father was a three-part process which began with Novation <Ref>“the remodeling of an old obligation.” Webster's Dictionary </Ref>. It included birth registration, since age was so important when someone became eligible for benefits. Certification was essential to assure that benefits only went to the faithful children of these elected “[[Fathers|fathers]]”. Roman certification of birth was around in the days of Augustus, but it was made mandatory by Marcus Aurelius. Those records were kept in the bureau of vital statistics, [[Temples|Temple of Saturn]].

The granted benefits were called Tutor.<Ref>tutor -ari, dep.: also tuto -are: to protect, watch, keep. guard against. </Ref> Someone who received provisions was being 'raised up' in the second part of the process toward subjugation, and this process was completed with the manumission of a child from their parents to their conscripted father, the State, at which time they began to contribute to the State as an adult. This contribution was called Qorban in Rome, [[Corban]] in Judea or Korban elsewhere.<Ref>Bringing closer to the originator or father, even a substitute father. </Ref> It means your sacrifice, your contribution, for the needy of society. The Corban which had once been freely given to the ministers of a voluntary government became the official contributions on the civil altars of the State, where penalties were imposed by the State if the full amount was not paid.

One way was considered commendable by Christ, and the other was considered wicked, and it made the word of God to none effect.

Consent was required to conscript these new Fathers upon the earth, but consent was no longer required once you were bound under the Patronus of the State.

* “He is not presumed to consent who obeys the orders of his father or his master.” <Ref>Velle non creditur qui obsequitur imperto patris veldomini. Dig. 50.17.4. </Ref>

There was guaranteed a system of social insurance and entitlements offered by government, but not without the price of their freedom and the sacrifice of choice.

If, “A person shall not be allowed to enrich himself unjustly at the expense of another,” <Ref>Blacks 3rd p 425. </Ref> then it should also be true that any bounties, donations, or benefits, that are not owed but accepted, will create an obligation to the benefactor on the part of the recipient.

== Schemes of government ==

Those schemes of government were implemented in places like the city States from [[Cain]] to [[Caesar]]. In [[Herod]]'s reign, and even though [[John the Baptist]] opposed Herod's system by encouraging people to repent and build bonds of love between their neighbors, yet Herod's State, like all of those similar schemes, took on the role of [[Fathers|father]].<Ref>Call no man on earth Father.
http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/fatherabba.php </Ref> And, within the jurisdiction of those civil States, there was a form of social security<Ref>The failure of the unrighteous [[Mammon]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> but, as always, such protection drew subjection. These systems were also a breeding ground for jealousy, envy, avarice and sloth. These systems of venality might be established by application and membership, but they were maintained by force. Although, the leaders were called [[Benefactors]], they exercised authority one over the other. In order to guarantee full benefits, they resorted to forcing the contributions of the people who became citizens subject to the administration of governments to whom they had applied for benefits, and now the citizens became dependent. <Ref>Citizen vs. Citizen Audio http://keysofthekingdom.info/COG-03.mp3
Text http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog3cvc.php </Ref>

To desire these benefits, one was, in fact, coveting their neighbor's goods. When people gathered together in those city-states, they soon found increasing demands from the men in authority, and the central treasuries were being depleted by corruption and self-serving abuse. Men who sought to exercise power were drawn to those offices of power like a moth to a flame.

When natural and human resources ran low in that nation, or when the subject population rebelled against the increase in taxes or corruption or decline in conditions, excuses were made to plunder neighboring peoples or nations in order to maintain their standard of living. They were accustomed to coveting and using force, and the beast in their cultivated fallen natures easily justified aggression against more distant or different neighbors upon, what was often, the flimsiest of excuses.

There were numerous methods employed to maintain these civil structures. The wealth was centralized, and sometimes gold and silver was taken out of the hands of the people. Education was controlled, and eventually everything was regulated from speech to prices.

== Melchizedek ==

This national and mutual oppression of a subjected but covetous population made it necessary for neighboring free families and groups of families to also gather together for common defense from what often came as an aggressive threat. We see an example of this with Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, who was gathered with other rulers like himself in the days of Melchizedek. They conquered one city state after another, and anyone else they came upon in the process also became their servants.

They conquered Sodom with impunity;they took who and what they wanted. But there was another element on the earth in those days. There was Abraham and his [[altars]] of stone.<Ref>Moses and the [[Altars]] of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]]
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCc3-1AltarsofClay.php </Ref> Those stones were not dead rocks, but living men of peace and charity. Those altars were composed of men who sought to serve the people, yet they did not exercise power and authority over them. These people had formed not a civil state of subject members, but they formed a freewill network of charity, hope and faith.

That network saw to the needs of any who fell on hard times. Sometimes disaster struck a particular family or a local area, and people needed to get help from a larger group, or from farther away.

Chedorlaomer was a disaster on the move, and Abraham’s [[altars]] <Ref>Thy Kingdom Comes

http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/index.php </Ref> were the cure. Overnight, he mustered an all-volunteer army that destroyed this ravenous beast and freed the people it had taken.
One of the greatest logistical problems of an army is its supply lines. Napoleon said that an army moves on its stomach, and it was no different for Abraham.

* "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God." Genesis 14:18

Abraham and his instant army of volunteer minutemen received supplies from this Melchizedek. Evidently, Abraham had been tithing directly to this Melchizedek since he had left his Father’s house. Was Melchizedek one of Abraham’s grandfathers?<Ref>Melchizedek http://www.hisholychurch.org/words/shem/html </Ref>

Abraham had set up a way in which people could remain free yet have a reason to come together when there was almost any kind of trouble. These altars could take care of local problems within small groups of families, but they were linked by a network of ministers to handle even much larger issues. Flood, famine or war could be dealt with efficiently if the spirit of faith, hope and charity was cultivated on a daily basis.

When one of these city States began to exercise authority upon their neighbors, the people could come together like minutemen to the rescue. The illustration of Abraham’s defeat of Chedorlaomer is a perfect example, but certainly it was not the only example in history.

Abraham was offered a reward for his services, but he would not touch even a thread of the spoils from Sodom after saving the people of that civil State, along with many others. Sodom and other city States operated like Ur and Haran, which was much different than Melchizedek or Abraham. One operated in righteousness and freedom under God with the power and responsibility in the hands of the individual people, and the other operated by subjection and forced contributions. Once you became a member entitled to the protection of the State, your liberty declined.

[[Tithing]] in Israel was for the [[Levites]], but the tithing was not mandated by law. It was a voluntary system, and it was only given according to the service of the Levites. Levites did not have a guaranteed individual salary. It was a tenth of a families' produce, because each [[Levite]] served [[Tens|ten families]]. It was full time work, because he was a major part of the government - serving the needs of the people in congregation, such as higher education, health, welfare of widows, orphans, the poor, emergency funds, social insurance etc.

These same congregations of ten families supplied the voluntary militia in time of military conflict. In whatever platoon you served in time of war, it was along side the same brothers, cousins and neighbors with whom you grew up. The fighting dedication of the soldiers was enhanced by these personal bonds.

The whole tithe was for the [[Levite]] and his family who served together as a single unit, as it was their only wage for the services supplied. This made it in the best interest of the [[Levite]] to see that families prospered, which meant long-lasting marriages, no adultery, and good education for obedient, upright sons and daughters. A healthy functional family meant a healthy functioning nation.

The [[Levites]] were not paupers or [[mendicant]] monks, but they belonged to God. They were joint heirs holding all things in common. They had lands they held as a body politic, just like the early ministers of the Church appointed by Christ. They did not belong to the [[World]].

Things like forgiveness and thanksgiving<Ref>[[Eucharist]] http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist.php </Ref> were essential to keep these congregations together and thriving. Patience, charity, mutual love and caring were not just a good idea or some moral code, but they were essential to the survival of the individual, the family, the congregation and the nation.

: '''A TITHING''', in English law. Formerly a district containing ten men with their families. In each tithing there was a tithing man whose duty it was to keep the peace, as a constable now is bound to do. St. Armand, in his Historical Essay on the Legislative Power of England, p. 70, expresses, an opinion that the tithing was composed not of ten common families, but of ten families of lords of a manor. <Ref>Bouvier's Law Dictionary 1856 Edition </Ref>

The tithing in Israel was not "ten percent" from each individual, but a share given by the ten families. Ten family groups gathered together to form a congregation which tithed to their ministers. Many family groups consisted of several families, with one elder or eldest father at the head of a family group. Only the eldest Father was Sui Juris. He was Lord of the family, and to him was given all honor due to the Father of the Family. These fathers gathered in a group of ten families, and they chose the princes and ministers of the ten families. The honor given to the chosen minister of such a congregation was given by each of the ten elders of those families.

== Justin and the Early Church ==

The early Christians lived in the world but not of it. They still took their day of rest on the [[Sabbath]], but we also see them meeting on the first work day of the week. For what purpose?

In Justin's First Apology we see an explanation of the government of the Christians with the words, “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place... And they who are well to do, and willing, give what each thinks fit; and what is collected is deposited with the president, who succours the orphans and widows and those who, through sickness or any other cause, are in want, and those who are in bonds and the strangers sojourning among us, and, in a word, takes care of all who are in need.”

Justin had written the Emperor Antonius Pius, “And we afterwards continually remind each other of these things. And the wealthy among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost.”<Ref>The Eucharist http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/eucharist3.PDF </Ref>

The Romans and many other countries had systems of social welfare, but to the Christians, those were the [[Nicolaitan]]<Ref> The Nico-laity were the conquered people. They were the people who no longer had a choice in what was to be contributed to the government. </Ref> and the deeds of their [[altars]] God hated.

: Re 2:6 "But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate."

The Romans [[Christian conflict|persecuted many of the early Christians]] because they would not take oaths of allegiance, nor serve, by contributing to the “gods” of [[Rome]]. These gods required donations, or tribute, in the form of an excise tax. A small book, or “libellus, made of papyrus”<Ref>According to the expert testimony of Dr. Elliott, concerning the Mark of the Beast, the priests of the temples, like the Capital, “were functioning, not as we would think religious priests would, but rather as police...” David Stevens v. Stephen Berger, United States District Court, New York, 428 F.Supp. 896 (1977) </Ref> was used as a passport throughout their world. It identified you as a contributing member and contained your signature --- and was believed to be the mark of the beast in its time. These temples administered systems of social security, education, justice, and national defense.<Ref>Rome vs. US http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> They even operated as a world bank.<Ref>Temples and Churches, from the book Thy Kingdom Comes </Ref>

:: "And those who have among us help the needy; and we always keep together; and for all things wherewith we are supplied, we bless the Maker of all through His Son 186 Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Ghost." Chapter LXVII.—Weekly worship of the Christians. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr

The most important thing to remember is that the tithe was at the discretion of the people. They chose who would be their minister from a pool of men who qualified to be what became known as a Levite. What their service was worth was decided by the people they served. They only tithed ‘according to his service’ <Ref>Numbers 7:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.” </Ref> as the Bible tells us. Ten Levites also tithed to the ministers they picked, and this eventually supplied those who took care of the tabernacle which moved from tribe to tribe. This system of voluntarism managed to keep the kingdom of God one people in charity under the perfect law of liberty. It was never meant to be the superstitious centralization of power we see at the time of Christ's birth.

These [[Levites]] were not performing some bizarre or mindless ritual of killing and burning up animals so that God would be pleased with the smell of the smoke. Such fabrications resulting from a misinterpretation of the language, and deceptive sophistry, has led to felonious fables and absurd speculations by religionists over the centuries.

The [[Levites]] were the "first born" of the nation of God with a practical purpose, duties and functions. They were not the priests of the individual families, but the priests or first born of a nation. They formed a free people without the privation, incorporation or abridgment of God-given rights and responsibilities. Congregations were linked throughout the nation of God by love and charity. They did not take funds from the family unless that family chose to give those funds as [[freewill offerings]]. There was no minister of God forcing contributions from the people by exercising authority. Freedom under God is devoid of such practices and policies, and Christ forbade it.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;" [[Luke 22]]:25

There is of course some social pressure from those within a local congregation and communities of congregations, and this would be pressure to pay your fare share. We are to rebuke one another when [[slothful]], but there was no compelled offering for the [[Kingdom of God]] except by God's will written in our hearts and minds.

Later, Israel began to compel the contributions as they did in the cities that Cain and Nimrod built, and like Sodom and Pharaoh’s Egypt.

This was a clear violation of the Law of God because it was a matter of coveting your neighbors goods, and such systems led to usurious title to property; they were leading away from commodity money into other systems of usury. This soon became the unrighteous Mammon.

== Jesus freed ==

Jesus freed us from the statutes the [[Pharisees]], but he did not free us from the Ten Commandments or the precepts of God. He clearly instructed us to follow the [[Ten Commandments]] and shunned the idea that you can call him Lord and not do what he told you to do.

* “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lu 6:46<Ref>Jesus Says http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/jesussays.php </Ref>

There are some people who think they see no need for ministers of Christ's gospel under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]] or they see no value in supporting ministers. But then most ministers do not understand the duties and mission of ministers who earned the tithe by actual and practical service to the congregation and the nation. People who think we have no need for ministers probably have chosen the administrators of the gentiles as their administrators. The services once rendered by these ministers of sacrifice and service have been replaced by the authoritarian benefactors of modern civil bureaucracy.

* "But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:" [[Matthew 20]]:25...

I have actually had ministers of modern Churches tell me that this only pertains to Church government. They actually believe that on the other six days a week, it is absolutely okay for Christians to be like the governments of the gentiles, coveting and [[Biting one another]]. They are content to depend on those administrators who obtain the tithes and contributions of the people by force, rather than the [[freewill offerings]] of the people spoken of by Moses, Jesus and the apostles. They seem to enjoy the government of the gentiles who exercise authority, wallowing in its ill-gotten benefits, like the pig in the mire.

* “But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.” [[2 Peter 2]]:22

They even take part in such authority by choosing covetously to increase their benefits at the expense of their neighbor. Even though God, Moses or Jesus never said to do anything like that and often said quite the opposite.

* "But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." [[Mark 10]]:42

Those people have chosen to come together in a common purse of rights and wealth, which of course, as we know, runs towards death.<Ref>My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. Proverbs 1:10... </Ref> They are tempted to seek the benefits of another man's sweat and blood and they find themselves snared in their own trap. We covetously think our neighbor should be a source for our desired benefit, and then we become human resources for the will of these tempting rulers.

Such systems of exercising authority where 51 percent of the [[voice]] of people <Ref>Voice of the People http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/voice.php </Ref> can take away the goods of their neighbor's household and convert them to satisfy their own desires are a rejection of the spirit and ways of God in Heaven. They also rob the people of their free will choice of charity and love, to say nothing of coveting their goods. This is why Jesus forbade such behavior for those who followed him, no matter how good are the benefits from such systems. That is simply not the Christian way, but the way of the anti-Christ. The end does not justify the means, and those who feel justified in this [[Nicolaitian]] <Ref>The Nicolaitan who God hates? Because they covet their neighbor's goods http://www.hisholychurch.org/sermon/nicolaity.php </Ref> way which is hated by God are void of the salvation of Christ.

* "And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve." [[Luke 22]]:25

Of course, most people professing to be Christians or followers of Christ are operating under a strong delusion, having believed the lie that the kingdom of heaven is not at hand. They have been taught a watered down gospel, devoid of the kingdom and the message of Christ.

The kingdom of Heaven is within you, but if that is a true statement, then by the very nature of God’s kingdom within and your belief in Jesus as Lord, you will do as Jesus said. If you really love Jesus, you will find it very difficult to covet your neighbor's goods or desire the benefits offered by men who exercise authority in the taking from your neighbor to supply those offered benefits.

The question was asked, “Should we tithe to the modern Church?”

Well, I would not call it a tithe. It is really just a cover charge for entertainment. People go to Church to feel good and to be reassured by the men and women working in those church buildings that they are saved and that God loves them even though they do not do the will of the Father.

If those ministers are not preaching the kingdom is at hand, and if they are not taking care of the widows and orphans, nor any of those things that use to be a part of the first century Church or the Church in the wilderness, then why support them?

I heard a minister say we don’t have to do that any more, because the government does that for us. Christ preached the government of charity, and John preached the same message; they did not inspire anyone in the use of force like the governments of the [[World|world]].

The fact that the Roman <Ref>Rome vs US, Does history repeat itself because man does not repent? http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> government did the exact same thing people are doing today, for anyone who would apply to the Roman government, seems to have escaped this minister's education entirely. Christians would not apply or participate, and that is why they were persecuted.

Those [[Pharisees]], in what John called the Synagogue of Satan, did the same thing, offering entitlements under a system of Corban condemned by Jesus. It seems to have made little impression on anyone that at baptism, Christians were cast out of such systems. Christians would not apply or ‘pray’ to such institutions because those systems did not rely on charity or love. They made the Law of God to no effect. Those systems were the opposite of what Christ was teaching. Eventually those institutions persecuted the Christians who would not participate, apply or make offerings on their civic altars.

It astounds me that people can pretend they are Christians and do just the opposite of what Christ said and what the first century Church was doing.

== Standing ==

* "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such [[turn away]]. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." [[2 Timothy]] 3:5

Israel was literally the [[Kingdom of God]] on earth. Of course at first the kingship was in the hands of the patriarch of each family represented titularly by the appointed elders of individual tribes through a process of mutual consensus of the individual people. Some 3,000 years ago, Moses managed this society of about three million people, and he was led to organize them by establishing captains of ten families and captains of ten captains, etc..

* "That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:" [[Numbers 7]]:2

The word 'over' is from ''amad'' translated ''stood'' 171 times and ''stand'' 137, and is almost never translated ''over'' in more than 500 appearances. ''Amad'' means to ''stand'', remain, endure, take one's stand. The word does not really mean 'over' as a king or a ruling general might be over his subjects, but more in the way of enduring, standing or endorsing an office of service, respect and duty.

The word ''numbered'' is from ''paqad'' which means to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for.

And again this same pattern of [[Tens|tens]] and ministers was seen repeated in the early Church, as represented with 120 families present by name, with twelve apostles appointed in service.

* "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" [[Acts 1]]:15

One-hundred and twenty families and twelve ministers appointed by Christ. The pattern is repeated in lands all over the world for the next 1000 years.

: “To that field the head of each family led his sons and kinsfolk; every [[Tens|ten families]] (or tything) were united under their own chosen captain. Every ten of these tythings had, again, some loftier chief, dear to the populace in peace; and so on the holy circle spread from household, hamlet, town,--till, all combined, as one county under one Earl, the warriors fought under the eyes of their own kinsfolk, friends, neighbours, chosen chiefs! What wonder that they were brave?” <Ref>Harold, Last of the Saxon Kings. Vol. III. 2nd Ed. London : Richard Bentley, New Burlington St. 1848. </Ref>

In the first millennium after the [[Apostles]] preached the kingdom of heaven, the Anglo-Saxon form of government had something called a Tithingman who oversaw ten families composed of freemen, a Hundredman [or gerefa - in Saxon language, it became reeve] who oversaw ten Tithingmen, and an Eoldorman who was overseer to a thousand families, known as a Shire. A tithing in English Law was formerly a district containing ten men with their families. The key to their success was the intimate consensus of each group.

Most of the ministration of justice was through these men by the mutual consent and aid of the people. The prime responsibility for bringing offenders to justice still remained with the victim and their family, but through these men and the customary law, an organized structure to assist the Hue and Cry of the people was established. In the case of more national calamities or needs, this network could immediately muster a well-regulated army of thousands. They were the minutemen of the national militia that functioned all across Europe for the first millennium.<Ref>Jeremiah 7:9 “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;” </Ref>

As Jesus came preaching the kingdom of heaven, there were a few things he was going to do:
: “ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.” [[Leviticus 25]]:10

* Therefore say I unto you, The [[Kingdom of God]] shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [[Matthew 21]]:43

* “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” [[Luke 12]]:32

Under the [[Perfect law of liberty]], each father was the head of a household, and by the nature of that fact, he was an elder of his family group. When the apostles appointed elders, they were not granting the office of elder, they were appointing elders to the office of minister. Those ministers were chosen by the people. This system continued even after Constantine<Ref>The Allurement of Wolves of the book [[TKC|Thy Kingdom Comes]] 
http://www.hisholychurch.org/media/books/TKC/TKCl12-2Wolves.html </Ref> ordered everyone in Milan to become Christian. There the people picked one bishop for the whole city. That Bishop began to exercise authority and appoint those who ruled the Church, and in conjunction with the Kings of the gentiles, began to issue “edicts and commands”. These, of course, were not true Christians, but manufactured or instant Christians with more fear of Constantine than love of Jesus. The system that grew out of this departure from the “Way of the Lord” was contrary to the wishes and words of Jesus Christ.

Before 600 AD, the Anglo Saxons had formed a government with these Tithingmen who oversaw the needs of ten families. With the Eoldorman and Hundredsmen, a thousand families known as a Shire could work as a large body. One key to these successful societies was that no person was responsible for communicating directly with more than 10 people to notify the whole nation, and each man was free to choose the Tithingman of his choice, and each Tithingman in small intimate groups of ten chose their Hundred man etc..

These were not men of power and authority, but men of service and support. They were a key part of the viability of a system based on liberty. Their function was to serve the people, and in order to do that, they knew they must keep the people in a family-type group, bound by genuine concern and love. The charity managed by the Church through this same network of tens cemented these bonds. The practice of charity was a daily ritual. These tithing ministers tended to the needs of the individual families.

This was a system of bottom up authority, as opposed to top down dictation. These ministers, although they formed a national government, did not make laws for the people, except within their own families. The authority of the Hundreds man and the Eolderman was titular, not sovereign.

Not only did the people choose their tithingmen who would serve them as a sort of a ministering public servant, but they also chose what to pay them. The Bible speaks about picking your tithe as in

: “And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.” [[Leviticus 27]]:32

Some want to turn this idea into a dogmatic rule, but the truth is that God is simply expressing the idea or precept that you should be fair and unbiased in the distribution and compensation.

Many ranchers supply free beef to their hired help. Most are generous with this allotment, but I have known some to fish through a freezer full of prime cuts in order to find tough and unwanted portions of a cow to give to the man who worked all day in the fields. In the same manner, one aspect of the Levite minister's job was to receive the free will temple contribution in the national treasury. These funds were handled by the porters or gatekeepers of the temple. They were allowed a portion of this contribution to support their needs. They could cut off a piece of the sacrifice for their own use. It was to be a fair share, but often it was cut much thicker than normal. This thick piece eventually evolved into what became known as a porters share, and this brought about word usage like Porterhouse Trust or a ''Porterhouse Steak''.

Just as they were to be fair in payment for his service, so also was the minister to be fair in the division of his services. He and his whole family were to serve ten families. The minister had no right to compel a salary by force of arms or law. How could he? The right hand of government remained in the hands of the people. The people retained their rights under the perfect law of liberty, which included the right to choose who and how much they would tithe. There was no enforcement of the tithe, as there is with modern taxes in governments that exercise authority.

* “For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.” Jeremiah 10:21

The Old Testament mentions the ''Nedabah'' or ''nadab'' almost 50 times, which is a [[Freewill offerings|freewill offering]] or voluntary offering. The precepts of God are unchanging. It just amazes me that Modern Christian churches have the audacity to demand a tithe while they have delivered the people back into the bondage of Egypt.<Ref>Chapter 4. of the book The [[Cog|Covenants of the gods]], [[Employ]] vs Enslave http://www.hisholychurch.org/study/gods/cog4eve.php </Ref>

*“The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” Jeremiah 22:22

The [[Modern Christians]] apply to gentile-type governments to get those benefits and become subject to more taxes than were paid in Egypt. Once they apply, they will have to pay Caesar, but if the Churches were really Churches, they would not have to or want to apply. You would only be applying to God.

* “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1

But the people are all back in a worse condition than Egypt. They are all a surety for a debt. <Ref>[[Proverbs 17]]:18 “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.” </Ref>

* “He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.” [[Proverbs 11]]:15

Just like the Bible says they have returned to the mire. Men with great swelling words have tempted the people and made merchandise of them through their covetous desire for such ill gotten benefits.

* "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.... For when they speak great swelling [words] of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error." 2 Peter 2:3...<Ref>[[Proverbs 6]]:1-6 “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, [if] thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend. Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids. Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:” </Ref>

* "For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." [[Luke 12]]:30...

* [[John 9]]:22 "These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

The word 'agreed' is from ''suntithemai''.<Ref>4934 ~suntiyhmai~ suntithemai translated agree 2, covenant 1, assent 1; 1) to put together with, to place together, to join together 1a) to place in one's mind 1b) to assent to, to agree to</Ref>

Those who got baptized by the ministers of Christ's [[ekklesia]], [[His Church]], no longer could claim benefits of the [[baptism]] of Herod through his [[Corban]] at the temple by their own covenant. Jesus already explained that that Corban made the word of God to none effect. You could not believe in Jesus and look to that Corban for your protection. So what Corban made the word of God to an effect?

That was the [[Corban]] of Christ. Followers of Christ who believed in Him were put out of the system of the temple. These synagogues were Judean Persons just like the system of Corban managed by administrations today.

If you actually believe in Christ, you would do what He said and obey the will of the Father in Heaven and not seek to serve the Fathers of the World.

[[Congregations]] must come together and establish the living stones of His Altars and be the [[Corban]] of Christ through a profession of faith. To say you pick a minister is not passing the buck; it is a commitment to be the flesh of the altar. It is a confession that you are seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But it will be up to those people freely assembled to do just that. People are just hearing the gospel; they must unlearn the false gospel taught by the modern Church, which is that all you have to do is believe in Christ, but after that, get your daily bread from the temples of Herod and the [[Fathers]] of [[Rome]]. Unlearn that, and instead learn about the righteousness of God in His kingdom.

You would think that people on this network would start to connect the dots. How can you practice the Corban of Christ without congregations of record and without the elected ministers of record? How can we provide an alternative system if people do not contribute to building that system of Corban dependent on living altars of stone. How can you serve God and do justly<ref>Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? </ref> without offering your flesh and the fruits of your toil in a system of congregations intended for supplying help when there is a [[Hue and cry|hue and cry]]?

* [[John 9]]:35 - 38 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[[Worship]] means he paid homage to Him because he was king. How many Kings can you have?

* [[John 9]]:39-41 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the [[Pharisees]] which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

They should begin to see that believing in Christ as king meant believing His kingdom was at hand, and they should understand that to start serving that king, it is by being His government of service to each other (being His hands and His feet). A minister without a congregation that supports it is like scattered [[Dry Bones]].

: "So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the [[Dry Bones|bones came together]], bone to his bone." [[Ezekiel 37]]:7

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Deacon

2017-01-22T17:51:27Z

Susan B:

[[File:deacon.jpg|right|thumb|300px|"[[Bishop]]s, presbyters([[Elder]]) and [[deacon]]s occupy in the [[church]] the same positions as those which were occupied by Aaron, his sons, and the [[Levites]] in the temple." Jerome, Ep. 146]]

'''Is there an office of Deacon?'''

What should he be doing?

Churches have strayed so far from the [[Gospel of the Kingdom]] that they've actually created the label "servant myth" to argue that acts of service are not indicative of deacons.<Ref> Anthony Gooley, Deacons and the Servant Myth, November 2006, Ministry Development Officer in the Archdiocese of Brisbane, Australia.</Ref>

The Deacon Gooley used the letters to the Trallians by Ignatius of Antioch<Ref>A student of John the Apostle (ca. From 35 to 45-and 98 to 117)</Ref> to make his point. It stated, ‘deacons are not waiters (diakonoi) providing food and drink but executives (hyperetai) of the Church of God.’

Terms evolve, but what was their meaning and use in the time and context of the scripture?

: The word ''decemvirī'' was a noun that referred to "a college or commission of ten men."
: The word ''diāconātus'' was a noun that meant "the office of deacon."
: The word ''diāconīum'' was a noun also meant the "the office of deacon."
: The word ''diāconicus'' was an adjective which meant "belonging to a deaconship."
: 'The word 'decāprōtus'' was a noun "the ten chief men."
: Decem primusis noun that meant the heads or presidents of the ten decuriae which usually formed the senate in an Italian city or Roman colony.
: "the title of Dean from the Latin decanus, the head of ten, founded upon decem, ten.<Ref>Significance of Names, By Leopold Wagner</Ref>
: Latin decanus (originally a leader of ten men, from decem 'ten').
The term “Dean”, a faculty head, is derived from the Latin “deaconus”.<Ref>Dean is from M. Fr. doyen and O.Fr. Deien meaning the “commander of ten”. The Online Etymology Dictionary </Ref>

Terms like ''decurions'' signified those who served ''ten deans.''

The Latin word ''deaconus'' was always connected to the idea of a servant of ''ten.''

Originally [[Tithing|tithing]] was based on ten families being served by one minister. Each minister in Israel served ten families. In support of that government, they [[Tithe|tithe]]d in accordance to their service.<Ref>[[Numbers 7]]:5 “Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the [[Levites]], to every man according to his service.”</Ref>

They served the ''tents of the congregation'' of ten families to keep them free from the [[Cain]]s and [[Nimrod]]s of the [[World|world]].

Throughout the early Church you see congregations of [[Tens|ten]], with ministers gathered also in groups of [[Tens]]. This was a pattern repeated to join the people in a living network of faith, hope, and charity, under the [[Perfect law of liberty|perfect law of liberty]]. Families seeking to be ruled by God, rather than by the unrighteous [[Gods|gods]] of the [[World|world]], gathered together in love for one another, not coveting one another's goods, not [[Biting one another]].

They were served by their Christian ministers. They provided for their welfare and needs by charitable contributions so that they did not have to go to the civil altars of men who exercised authority and be entangled in bondage again in the elements of that world.

So, Ignatius and Gooley were correct. Deacons were not merely to wait on tables and serve food. They were the [[welfare]] officers of a republican form of government—the [[Kingdom of God]]—which composed from about 5 to 10% of the Roman Empire and beyond.

* As with ministers like Stephen, we also see the Didache stating: “Therefore, elect for yourselves [[Bishop|bishop]]s and [[deacon]]s worthy of the Lord, men who are meek and not lovers of money, true and approved, for they also perform for you the ministry of the prophets and teachers.” 15:1<Ref>The Didache is mentioned by Eusebius (c. 324) as the Teachings of the Apostles following the books recognized as canonical (Historia Ecclesiastica III, 25): ...</Ref>

* “... all who live in cities or in the country gather together to one place, …. and there is a distribution to each, and a participation of that over which thanks have been given, and to those who are absent a portion is sent by the deacons.”
: “Those who have means and are willing, each according to his own choice, gives what he wills, and what is collected is deposited with the president. He provides for the orphans and [[widows]], those who are in need on account of sickness or some other cause, those who are in bonds, strangers who are sojourning, and in a word he becomes the protector of all who are in need.”<Ref> -Justin Martyr, Apology, Chapter LXVII </Ref>

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The point of all this is that there are two ways to take care of the needy of your society. There are two ways to practice and perform our duty to our fellow man. There are two religions in the [[world]] today. One is dependent upon free-will offerings of the people, for the people, and by the people, and the other is established by people electing men who call themselves [[benefactors]] but force the contributions of society by exercising authority one over the other. Both are forms of religion. One sets you free while the other may promise you liberty<Ref>[[2 Peter 2]]:1 “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in [[damnable heresies]], even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.” </Ref> yet leads many people away from truth and freedom.<Ref>[[2 Peter 2]]:2 “And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.” </Ref> Such [[covetous practices]] makes the people [[merchandise]],<Ref>[[2 Peter 2]]:3 “And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make [[merchandise]] of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” </Ref> collateral for debt<Ref>[[Not so Secure Socialism]]. Same old promise, Same old lie! Appeared first on NewsWithViews 8-1-10
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/notsecuress.php </Ref> and human resources.<Ref>Employ vs Enslave, SS Video Series 7-10 7:28
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vuz-hFKM_Ts </Ref>

[[Modern Christians]] readily apply for those [[benefits]] from these men who call themselves [[benefactors]], which is contrary to the Christ<Ref>[[Luke 22]]:25-27 “And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called [[benefactors]]. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.” Matthew 20:25, [[Mark 10:]]42. </Ref> who they say they believe in but are not [[doers]] of the word. They simply take from your neighbor through the superhuman agency or agencies of their governments. These [[benefits]] of modern [[Rome]],<Ref>[[Rome]] vs US. Does history repeat itself because man does not [[repent]]?
http://www.hisholychurch.org/news/articles/romeus.php </Ref> once refused by early Christians, are pervasive in modern religions. [[Modern Christians]] remain oblivious to the fact they have more in common with the [[religion]] of ancient pagans, the [[Pharisees]] and the [[temples]] of [[Rome]] than they have with the [[Early Church|early Christian Church]] where people gathered.

And then there are those steeped in religious rituals and fabricated doctrines plucked from the private interpretation of scripture through the tree of knowledge. They too make excuses why they do not need to
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: [[Deacon]]: The word deacon means leader of ten. Leadership in the Church is by service. In the Greek the word diakonos means servant or Ministers. Minister is the Latin word for doer of little deeds. Minister is a generic term that includes all who serve others, whether deacon, [[Bishop|bishop]], archbishop or other.
: [[Elder]]: An Elder is often older and more experienced, usually holding a position of respect, a father and husband by experience, the head of a family by status. An elder is chosen by each family group by decision or status. It is from the elders that the Ministers of the congregation are usually chosen for appointment by the Church.
: [[Minister]]: A minister is any servant of the Church whether temporary or ordained. Ministers may include Ministers of Congregations of Record ([[CORE]]) (Licensed Ministers), trustees, members of Commissions (Missionaries or Commissioned Ministers), Deacons, ministers acting [[ex officio]], [[Ordain]]ed ministers, and Novices, etc. Or in a less official and more independent capacity any lay person including presbyters, acolytes or congregants offering assistance or aid.

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== Appearance in the New Testament ==

The word [[Deacon]] is from '''''diakonos''''' the word normally translated ''minister''.<Ref> 1249 ~διάκονος~ diakonos \@dee-ak’-on-os\@ probably from an obsolete diako (to run on errands, cf 1377);n m/f AV-minister 20, servant 8, deacon 3; 31
: 1) one who executes the commands of another, esp. of a master, a servant, attendant, minister
:: 1a) the servant of a king
:: 1b) a deacon, one who, by virtue of the office assigned to him by the church, cares for the poor and has charge of and distributes the money collected for their use
:: 1c) a waiter, one who serves food and drink
For Synonyms see entry 5834 & 5928</Ref>

It appears some 29 times in the New Testament.<Ref>Matthew 20:26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister <1249>;
: Matthew 22:13 Then said the king to the servants <1249>, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
: Matthew 23:11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant <1249>.
: Mark 9:35 And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant <1249> of all.
: Mark 10:43 But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister <1249>:
: John 2:5 His mother saith unto the servants <1249>, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
: John 2:9 When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants <1249> which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,
: John 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant <1249> be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
: Romans 13:4 For he is the minister <1249> of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister <1249> of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
: Romans 15:8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister <1249> of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:
: Romans 16:1 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant <1249> of the church which is at Cenchrea:
: Romans 16:27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. « Written to the Romans from Corinthus, and sent by Phebe servant <1249> of the church at Cenchrea. »
: 1 Corinthians 3:5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers <1249> by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
: 2 Corinthians 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers <1249> of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
: 2 Corinthians 6:4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers <1249> of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
: 2 Corinthians 11:15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers <1249> also be transformed as the ministers <1249> of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
: 2 Corinthians 11:23 Are they ministers <1249> of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.
: Galatians 2:17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister <1249> of sin? God forbid.
: Ephesians 3:7 Whereof I was made a minister <1249>, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
: Ephesians 6:21 But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister <1249> in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:
: Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the [[Bishop|bishops]] and deacons <1249>:
: Colossians 1:7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister <1249> of Christ;
: Colossians 1:23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister <1249>;
: Colossians 1:25 Whereof I am made a minister <1249>, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;
: Colossians 4:7 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister <1249> and fellowservant in the Lord:
: 1 Thessalonians 3:2 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister <1249> of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:
: 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons <1249> be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
: 1 Timothy 3:12 Let the deacons <1249> be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.
: 1 Timothy 4:6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister <1249> of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.</Ref>

Another word associated with the word we see as ''[[Deacon]]'' is '''''diakoneo''''' <Ref> 1247 ~διακονέω~ diakoneo \@dee-ak-on-eh’-o\@ from 1249; v AV-minister unto 15, serve 10, minister 7, misc 5; 37
: 1)) to be a servant, attendant, domestic, to serve, wait upon
:: 1a) to minister to one, render ministering offices to
::: 1a1) to be served, ministered unto
:: 1b) to wait at a table and offer food and drink to the guests,
::: 1b1) of women preparing food
:: 1c) to minister i.e. supply food and necessities of life
::: 1c1) to relieve one’s necessities (e.g. by collecting alms), to provide take care of, distribute, the things necessary to sustain life
::: 1c2) to take care of the poor and the sick, who administer the office of a deacon
::: 1c3) in Christian churches to serve as deacons
:: 1d) to minister
::: 1d1) to attend to anything, that may serve another’s interests
::: 1d2) to minister a thing to one, to serve one or by supplying any thing </Ref> It appears some 37 times.<Ref>Matthew 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered <1247> unto him.
: Matthew 8:15 And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered <1247> unto them.
: Matthew 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto <1247>, but to minister <1247>, and to give his life a ransom for many.
: Matthew 25:44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did <1247> not minister <1247> unto thee?
: Matthew 27:55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering <1247> unto him:
: Mark 1:13 And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered <1247> unto him.
: Mark 1:31 And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered <1247> unto them.
: Mark 10:45 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto <1247>, but to minister <1247>, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Mark 15:41 (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered <1247> unto him;) and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.
: Luke 4:39 And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered <1247> unto them.
: Luke 8:3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered <1247> unto him of their substance.
: Luke 10:40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve <1247> alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
: Luke 12:37 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve <1247> them.
: Luke 17:8 And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve <1247> me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?
: Luke 22:26 But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve <1247>.
: Luke 22:27 For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth <1247>? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth <1247>.
: John 12:2 There they made him a supper; and Martha served <1247>: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.
: John 12:26 If any man serve <1247> me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve <1247> me, him will my Father honour.
: Acts 6:2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve <1247> tables.
: Acts 19:22 So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered <1247> unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season.
Romans 15:25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister <1247> unto the saints.
: 2 Corinthians 3:3 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered <1247> by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
: 2 Corinthians 8:19 And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered <1247> by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:
: 2 Corinthians 8:20 Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered <1247> by us:
: 1 Timothy 3:10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon <1247>, being found blameless.
: 1 Timothy 3:13 For they that have used the office of a deacon <1247> well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
: 2 Timothy 1:18 The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me <1247> at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.
: Philemon 1:13 Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered <1247> unto me in the bonds of the gospel:
: Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered <1247> to the saints, and do minister <1247>.
: 1 Peter 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister <1247> the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
: 1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister <1247> the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
: 1 Peter 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister <1247>, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.</Ref>

One more word is '''''diakonia''''' <Ref> 1248 ~διακονία~ diakonia \@dee-ak-on-ee’-ah\@ from 1249; n f AV-ministry 16, ministration 6, ministering 3, misc 9; 34
: 1) service, ministering, esp. of those who execute the commands of others
: 2) of those who by the command of God proclaim and promote [[Religion|religion]] among men
:: 2a) of the office of [[Moses]]
:: 2b) of the office of the apostles and its administration
:: 2c) of the office of prophets, evangelists, elders etc.
: 3) the ministration of those who render to others the offices of Christian affection esp. those who help meet need by either collecting or distributing of charities
: 4) the office of the deacon in the church
: 5) the service of those who prepare and present food</Ref> and appears 34 times.<Ref> Luke 10:40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving <1248>, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
: Acts 1:17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry <1248>.
: Acts 1:25 That he may take part of this ministry <1248> and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.
: Acts 6:1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their [[widow]]s were neglected in the [[daily ministration]] <1248>.
: Acts 6:4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry <1248> of the word.
: Acts 11:29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief <1248> unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:
: Acts 12:25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry <1248>, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.
: Acts 20:24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry <1248>, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
: Acts 21:19 And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry <1248>.
: Romans 11:13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office <1248>:
: Romans 12:7 Or ministry <1248>, let us wait on our ministering <1248>: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
: Romans 15:31 That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service <1248> which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints;
: 1 Corinthians 12:5 And there are differences of administrations <1248>, but the same Lord.
: 1 Corinthians 16:15 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry <1248> of the saints,)
: 2 Corinthians 3:7 But if the ministration <1248> of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:
: 2 Corinthians 3:8 How shall <1248> not the ministration <1248> of the spirit be rather glorious?
: 2 Corinthians 3:9 For if the ministration <1248> of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration <1248> of righteousness exceed in glory.
: 2 Corinthians 4:1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry <1248>, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
: 2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry <1248> of reconciliation;
: 2 Corinthians 6:3 Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry <1248> be not blamed:
: 2 Corinthians 8:4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering <1248> to the saints.
: 2 Corinthians 9:1 For as touching the ministering <1248> to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:
: 2 Corinthians 9:12 For the administration <1248> of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;
: 2 Corinthians 9:13 Whiles by the experiment of this ministration <1248> they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;
: 2 Corinthians 11:8 I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do <1248> you service <1248>.
: Ephesians 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry <1248>, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
: Colossians 4:17 And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry <1248> which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.
: 1 Timothy 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry <1248>;
: 2 Timothy 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry <1248>.
: 2 Timothy 4:11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry <1248>.
: Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister <1248> for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
: Revelation 2:19 I know thy works, and charity, and service <1248>, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first.</Ref>

== Appearance in [[early Church]] writings ==

Didache 15.

Appoint therefore to yourselves bishops and deacons worthy of the Lord, men who are meek and not lovers of money, and true and approved ; for unto you they also perform the service of the prophets and teachers.

1 Clement 42

So preaching everywhere in country and town, [the Apostles] appointed their first-fruits, when they had approved them by the Spirit, to be bishops and deacons unto them that should believe. And this they did in no new fashion; for indeed it had been written concerning bishops and deacons from very ancient times; for thus saith the scripture in a certain place, I will appoint their bishops in righteousness and their deacons in faith.

Polycarp, Epistle 5.2

In like manner deacons should be blameless in the presence of his righteousness, as deacons of God and Christ and not of men; not calumniators, not double-tongued, not lovers of money, temperate in all things, compassionate, diligent, walking according to the truth of the Lord who became a deacon of all.

Hermas, Similitudes 9.26.2

They [in the vision] that have the spots are the deacons that exercised their office ill, and plundered the livelihood of [[widow]]s and orphans, and made gain for themselves from the [[daily ministration|ministrations]] which they had received to perform.

REFERENCES IN 2ND-3RD CENTURY WRITERS

Justin, 1 Apol. 67 [describing their Sunday worship] And there is a distribution [of the bread and wine] to each,...and to those who are absent a portion is sent by the deacons.

Hippolytus, Refutation of all Heresies 9.7 About the time of this man [Callistus], bishops, priests and deacons who had been twice married, and thrice married, began to be allowed to retain their place among the clergy.

Eusebius, H.E. 7.11.24 [quoting Dionysius of Corinth, ca. 170]: The presbyters...concealed themselves in the city,...but the deacons, Faustus, Eusebius and Chaeremon, have survived those hwo died in the pestilence. Eusebius is one whom God has strengthened and endowed fromt he first to fulfill energetically the ministrations for the imprisoned confessors, and to attend to the dangerous task of preparing for burial the bodies of the pefected and blessed martyrs.

Cyprian, Ep. 64.2

But deacons ought to remember that the Lord chose apostles, that is bishops and overseers; while apostles appointed for themselves deacons after the ascent of the Lord into heaven, as minsters of their episcopacy and of the church.

REFERENCES IN 4TH CENTURY WRITERS

Chrysostom, Homily on 1 Tim 3:8ff

Some have thought that this [1 Tim 3:11] is said of women generally, but it is not so, for why should he introduce anything about women to interfere with his subject? He is speaking of those who hold the rank of deaconesses.

Jerome, Ep. 125.15

Each church has a single bishop, a single archpresbyter, a single archdeacon; and every ecclesiastical order is subjected to its own rulers.

Jerome, Ep. 146

"Bishops, presbyters and deacons occupy in the church the same positions as those which were occupied by Aaron, his sons, and the [[Levites]] in the temple."

Pseudo-Clement, Epistle to James 12

Let the deacons of the church move about intelligently and act as eyes of the bishop, carefully inquiring into the actions of every church member....let them find out those who are sick in the flesh, and bring such to the notice of the main body who know nothing of them, that they may visit them and supply their wants, and the president may judge fit.

REFERENCES IN THE APOSTOLIC CONSTITUTIONS 
(dating from the 4th century but incorporating earlier material)

2.25. These [bishops] are your high priests, as the presbyters are your priests, and your present deacons instead of your [[Levites]]; as are also your readers, your singers, your porters, your deasconesses, your [[widow]]s, your virgins, and your orphans: but he who is above all these is the High [[Priest]].

2.26. For let the bishop preside over you as one honoured with the authority of God.... But let the deacon minister to him, as Christ does to his Father; and let him serve him unblameably in all things, as Christ does nothing of himself, but does always those things that please his Father. Let also the deaconesses be honoured by you in the place of the Holy Ghost, and not do or say anything without the deacon; as neither does the comforter say or do anything of himself, but gives glory to Christ by waiting for his pleasure. And as we cannot believe on Christ without the teaching of the Spirit, so let not any woman address herself to the deacon or bishop without the deaconess.

2.28. If any determine to invite elder women to an entertainment of love, or a feast, as our Saviour calls it, let them most frequently send to such a one whom the deacons know to be in distress.

2.28. Let [the laity] not on all occasions trouble their governor, but let them signify their desires by those who minister to him, that is, by the deacons, with whom they may be more free. For neither may we address ourselves to Almighty God, but only by Christ.

2.30. For now the deacon is to you Aaron, and the bishop Moses. If therefore Moses was called a god by the Lord, let the bishop be honored among you as a god, and the deacon as his prophet.

2.32. If therefore, O deacon, thou knowest anyone to be in destress, put the bishop in mind of him, and so give to him

2.44. Let the deacon refer all things to the bishop, as Christ does to his Father. But let him order such things as he is able by himself, receiving power from the bishop, as the Lord did from His Father the power of creation and of providence. But the weighty matters let the bishop judge; but let the deacon be the bishop's ear, and eye, and mouth, and heart, and soul, that the bishop may not be distracted with many cares, but with such only as are more considerable, as Jethro did appoint for Moses, and his counsel was received.

2.57. While the Gospel is read, let all the presbyters and deacons, and all the people, stand up in great silence;...Let the deaconesses also stand at [the entries] of the women, like shipman.

2.57. But if any one be found sitting out of his place, let him be rebuked by the deacon, as a manager of a foreship, and be removed into the place proper for him. ... Let the deacon be the disposer of the places, that every one of those that comes in may go to his proper place, and may not sit at the entrance. In like manner, let th edeacon oversee the people, that nobody may whisper, nor slumber, nor laugh, nor nod; for all ought in the church to stand wisely, and soberly, and attentively, having their attention fixed upon the word of the Lord.

2.57. As to the deacons, after the prayer is over, let some of them attend upon the oblation of the Eucharist, ministering to the lord's body with fear. Let others of them watch the multitude,a nd keep them silent. But let that deacon who is at the high prienst's hand say to the peope, Let no one have any quarrel against another; let no one come in hypocrisy.

3.15. Let not therefore either a bishop, or a presbyter, or a deacon, defile his tongue with calumny.

3.15. O bishop, do thou ordain thy fellow-workers, the labourers for life and for righteousness, such deacons as are pleasing to God, such whom thou provest to be worthy among all the people, and such as shall be ready for the necessities of their ministration. Ordain also a deaconess who is faithful and holy, for the ministrations towards women. For sometimes he cannot send a deacon, who is a man, to the women, on account of unbelievers. Thou shalt therefore send a woman, a deaconess, on account of the imaginations of the bad. For we stand in need of a woman, a deaconess, for many necessities; and first in the baptism of women, the deacon shall anoint only their forehead with the holy oil, and after him the deaconess shall anoint them: for there is no necessity that the women should be seen by the men...

3.19. Let hte deacons be in all things unspotted, as the bishop himself is to be, only more active; in number according to the largeness of the church, that they many minister to the infirm as workmen that are not ashamed. And let the deaconess be diligent in taking care of the women; but both of them ready to carry messages, to travel about, to minister, and to serve. ... It is your duty who are deacons to visit all those who stand in need of visitation.

3.20. The presbyter is only to teach, to offer, to baptize, to bless the people, and the deacon is to minister to the bishop, and to the presbyters, that is, to do the office of a ministering deacon, but not to meddle with the other offices.

6.17. A bishop, a presbyter and a deacon, when they are constituted, must be but once married, whether their wives be alive or whether they be dead; and that it is not lawful for them, if they are unmarried when they are ordained, to be married afterwards...

8.17-21. [Prayers to be made by the bishop when he ordains deasons, deaconess, and sub-deacons.]

8.28. A deacon does no bless, does not give the blessing, but receives it from the bishop and presbyter: he does not baptize, he does not offer; but when a bishop or presbyter has offered, he distributes to the people, not as a priest, but as one that ministers to the priests. ... A deaconess does not bless, nor perform anything belonging to the office of presbyters or deacons, but only is to keep the doors, and to minister to the presbyters in the baptizing of women, on account of decency.

Ignatius, Magnesians 6.1 250 AD

Be ye zealous to do all things in godly concord, the bishop presiding after the likeness of God and the presbyters after the likeness of the council of the Apostles, with the deacons also, who are most dear to me, having been entrusted with the diaconate of Jesus Christ.

Ignatius, Trallians 3.1 250 AD

Let all men respect the deacons as Jesus Christ, even as they should respect the bishop as being a type of the Father and the presbyters as the council of God and as the college of Apostles. Apart from these there is not even the name of a church.

Ignatius, Philadelphians 10 250 AD

Seeing...that the church which is in Antioch of Syria hath peace, it is becoming for you, as a church of God, to appoint a deacon to go thither as God's ambassador, that he may congratulate them when they are assembled together, and may glorify the Name.

Ignatius, Smyrnaeans 12 250 AD

I salute your godly bishop and your venerable presbytery and my fellow-servants the deacons, and all of you severally and in a body...

'''Other'''

“The deacons, or tithingmen, presided over ten families, and the centenarii over one hundred families; both administered justice in all petty causes that were not presentable to the county courts." Page 50, See Walafridus Strabo circa 500 a.d. An Entire and Complete History, Political and Personal, of the Buroughs of Great Britton, Volume 1, By Thomas Hinton Burley Oldfield

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== Footnotes ==

<references />

Deacon

2017-01-22T17:50:49Z

Susan B: