Scripture: Malachi 3:8 (NIV) "Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ In tithes and offerings."

Introduction: Good morning, brothers and sisters. Today, we turn our attention to the book of Malachi, chapter 3, verse 8. This verse brings a challenging yet crucial message about our relationship with God, particularly in the area of tithes and offerings. It addresses the issue of faithfulness in giving and highlights the importance of honoring God with our resources. Let us delve into this powerful truth and explore its implications for our faith and daily lives.

1. The Question of Robbing God: Malachi 3:8 begins with a provocative question: "Will a mere mortal rob God?" This question is meant to stir the hearts of the people and bring to their attention the seriousness of their actions. The idea of robbing God is shocking because it reveals a deep spiritual problem.

• Application: We must examine our own hearts and ask ourselves if we are withholding from God what is rightfully His. This goes beyond finances; it includes our time, talents, and devotion. Are we giving God our best, or are we holding back?

2. The Accusation and the Response: God's accusation is clear: "Yet you rob me." The people, bewildered, ask, "How are we robbing you?" God's response is direct: "In tithes and offerings." The Israelites had neglected their covenantal duty to bring tithes and offerings to the temple, thus robbing God of what was due to Him.

• Application: Our tithes and offerings are a reflection of our commitment to God. They are acts of worship and trust, acknowledging that everything we have comes from Him. By faithfully giving, we honor God and participate in His work on earth.

3. The Importance of Tithes and Offerings: Tithes and offerings were instituted as a way for the Israelites to support the temple and the Levitical priests, ensuring that worship and religious duties could continue. It was also a way for the people to express their gratitude and dependence on God.

• Application: In today's context, our giving supports the church and its ministries, enabling the spread of the Gospel and the care of the community. It is a tangible expression of our faith and a way to contribute to God's kingdom work.

4. The Call to Trust and Obedience: In the verses following Malachi 3:8, God challenges the people to bring the full tithe into the storehouse and see if He will not "throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it" (Malachi 3:10). This is a call to trust God and obey His commands, with the promise of His abundant provision.

• Application: Trusting God with our finances can be challenging, especially in uncertain times. However, God's promise is clear: when we honor Him with our tithes and offerings, He will provide for us abundantly. Let us step out in faith, trusting that God will meet our needs as we faithfully give.

Conclusion: Malachi 3:8 is a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring God with our tithes and offerings. It challenges us to examine our hearts, trust in God's provision, and participate in His work through our giving. As we reflect on this verse, let us respond with obedience, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to give God our best.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your word that challenges and guides us. Help us to honor You with our tithes and offerings, trusting in Your provision and participating in Your work. May our giving be a reflection of our love and devotion to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Holy Spirit note:  This verse is often misunderstood, causing those with limited financial resources to feel undue pressure to tithe money they don't have. The Holy Spirit encourages us to bring our resources—our talents, skills, and creativity—to help build the Kingdom of God. It's crucial for pastors to clarify this distinction. This verse is meant to glorify the Kingdom of God, not to fund pastors' personal expenses, such as books, audiotapes, speaking engagements, or anything outside the church. Anything that a pastor does outside of his/her church, should also be used to glorify the Kingdom of God.  

Pastors should encourage their members to volunteer and use their skills to support various church activities. This includes helping children, beautifying church grounds, working in revenue-generating church shops, organizing fundraisers and events, designing and marketing the church website, and other creative contributions. If financial tithes and offerings are not possible, there are many ways to build up the Kingdom of God.