The Eccentric Tither

[Fantine]

I know someone who won't deduct his charitable contributions on his tax returns because he has that when God commands people to tithe he isn't considering that they may save 1/3 of what they tithe on their taxes (therefore making their net tithe only 6.67% of their income.)

"But if you claimed it on your taxes, you could afford to give MORE," I told him, still incredulous. "For example, if you would save 1/3 on your taxes, you could give 15%, get 5% back in tax refunds, and give them a tithe of 10%.

Personally, I think it's good that the government gives taxpayers an incentive to support charities and churches, and I can't believe that anyone would refuse to claim their share of the incentive.

Any thoughts?

 

[ottaia]

I agree with you. I have people ask me, "10% before or after taxes" to which I ususally answer, "Yes." I think God wants us to give, PERIOD. When we get to percentage points, then we are getting into legalisms. I like what (I think) C.S. Lewis said, "Give till it hurts then keep giving till it stops hurting."

 

[.Mikha'el.]

I know someone who won't deduct his charitable contributions on his tax returns because he has that when God commands people to tithe he isn't considering that they may save 1/3 of what they tithe on their taxes (therefore making their net tithe only 6.67% of their income.)

"But if you claimed it on your taxes, you could afford to give MORE," I told him, still incredulous. "For example, if you would save 1/3 on your taxes, you could give 15%, get 5% back in tax refunds, and give them a tithe of 10%.

Personally, I think it's good that the government gives taxpayers an incentive to support charities and churches, and I can't believe that anyone would refuse to claim their share of the incentive.

Any thoughts?

That is his choice. If I ever engaged in the practise of giving 10% of my income to the church, I would be inclined to make such deductions. If he wishes not to deduct the money, and it is financially feasible for him to let it go, let him.