Book Review: Tithing: Test Me In This by Douglas LeBlanc

“I think most American Christians are living in sin by the way they spend their money” (page 27).

In his addition to the Ancient Practices Series, Douglas LeBlanc pursues the concept of tithing.  Tithing is a particularly touchy subject; it is one of the ancient practices that most churches still observe, which requires personal sacrifice on the part of the giver.  That can makes it quite difficult for Christians to act faithfully in this area, particularly in these hard economic times. For this reason, people can get very uncomfortable when discussing it.  Admittedly, I have even been hesitant in reading this book.  Though recently we have been much more faithful to the Lord in the practice of tithing then at other times in our lives, I still anticipated being greatly convicted by the work of LeBlanc on tithing.  I had expected a Biblical and historical study on the practice.

Such was not to be the case with this book.  Rather than an in depth study on tithing, this book is a compilation of stories about people who have been faithful to the practice and the ways they’ve been blessed through it.  In his introduction to the book, LeBlanc acknowledges, “I am no theologian or exegetical writer.  To the extent that I am capable of exhortation or teaching, it is mostly through telling stories of other people’s lives” (xx).  Through their stories, these people’s lives propose some pieces of sound theology (or at least advice) on tithing; they will encourage you and may even challenge.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255