Abstract

UROKO, Favour C.. Tithing in Deuteronomy 14:22-29 and its implications to Pentecostal churches in Nigeria. Scriptura [online]. 2021, vol.120, n.1, pp.1-16. ISSN 2305-445X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.7833/120-1-1805.

Although Deuteronomy 14:22-29 is understood traditionally in Pentecostal churches in Nigeria to be a call for members of the church to bring their tithes for the pastor's sustenance, this article argues that the theology of Deuteronomy 14:22-29 also includes care and support for widows, orphans, and strangers. It demonstrates that tithing in Deuteronomy 14:22-29 was to be used to improve the life of the poor and needy in ancient Israel. Literature has focused on the reality of paying tithes in Pentecostal churches in Nigeria, but research is scanty on why the number of poor people in Pentecostal churches continue to increase despite that they pay their tithes. It is assumed that understanding tithing in Deuteronomy 14:22-29 will speak anew to the challenge of the neglect of the poor and needy in Pentecostal churches in Nigeria. The pericope reveals that God has a special concern for the poor and that all are called to provide for the poor and the needy.

Keywords : Poverty and the Poor; Tithing; Widows; Orphans; Strangers; Refugees; Strangers.

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