Why should deductions be an issue if they are paying tithes and donations (and the church is recording what the members give) if the members are giving to be blessed by God?
If they truly believe that God’s blessing is more than enough (according to Malachi 3:10 and other scriptures) then why do they need the blessing from the “state” they will get from no longer get based upon deductions?
If the amount of tithes and offerings (charitable deductions) drops in churches, then they were giving for the wrong reason in the first place.
I agree, as long as we have our theology right (and the Christian model, I am convinced, is the total free will offering).
I agree that God provides but why are you advocating a tax increase for Christians? Why does a liberal who donates to planned parenthood while I contribute to God have lower taxes than me?
I must say it gets under my skin for people to treat tithing like playing a slot machine. Ooh let me put my quarter in so I can get a “blessing.” You should give because God tells us to, because St Paul speaks of us helping one another. I don’t put my tithe in an envelope so I can get the tax deduction, I don’t want a deduction from this wicked government for tithing.
Seriously, no offense to anyone here personally, just a general rant.