That is by any standard a definition of self-serving and self-interest.Quote from jem:
you are becoming a bitter old man.
If you believe God is in charge and you believe he stated that your gifts and offerings will come back 100x times, you should be able to organize your life in a way that allows gifts to good churches.
(you can define good).
My church does not ask for a tithe. But, when offer things such as my time or money I believe it has a beneficial effect in my life in many ways in many reasons.
You know the bible speaks about being a good caretaker.
And via anecdote I cite you to churches in rancho sante fe. They have very generous contributors.
What came first for the people giving the money... the wealth... or the responsibility they manifested with it at smaller levels?
I know what I have witnessed. Small sample size but very clear correlations.
So as someone said earlier in this thread .. as Bono said... God aint short on cash.
You expect to get something back. Nothing more than an investment gamble to satisfy your own selfish philosophical outlook.
So as a church, as a christian, you anticipate 100x reward, and grant yourself a hope of heaven no doubt.
I suggest you go read your buy bull again. It says different.
I doubt a christian like yourself could ever truly understand what the definition of good was.
Thats funny, i agree with much of it.