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When is the Third Tithe Year?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe Sabbatical Year, as outlined in Leviticus 25:1-4, is a time of solemn rest for the land, designated as a sabbath to the LORD. For six years, the land is to be sown and pruned, with its fruits gathered, but in the seventh year, it must rest. This cycle, also reflected in Exodus 23:11, serves a primary purpose of providing for the poor of the nation. Additionally, the Shemitah, known as the LORD's release in Deuteronomy 15:2, mandates the release of debts during this year. God holds this special year in high regard, having sent Israel into captivity for neglecting it along with other Sabbaths. Intended to govern economic life, the Sabbatical Year remains significant, even if often ignored today. It forms a foundational rhythm in the life of God's people, designed for stability and abundance, demonstrating that adherence to God's way brings blessings beyond human calculations. Within this seven-year cycle, the third tithe, discussed in Deuteronomy 14:28-29 and 26:12, is anchored to the Sabbatical Year framework, ensuring a communal schedule for providing for the Levite, stranger, fatherless, and widow. God's design was for the nation to share in this sacrificial experience together, aligning with His rhythm to foster unity and collective blessing.
When Is the Year of Release (Shemitah)?
Sermon by David C. GrabbeThe anchor point of both the Shemitah and Jubilee is the Day of Atonement. Deuteronomy should be read at the Feast just after the year of release begins.
By The Numbers
Sermonette by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Calculating Sabbatical years, the Jubilee, tithing, and counting to Pentecost requires obedience and work, but gives very specific results.
The Isaiah 58 Puzzle
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIsaiah 58 is like the foreground of a picture puzzle. But it only really becomes clear when we add the background—the edge pieces—found elsewhere.
God's Stare Decisis
Sermon by Mark Schindler'Stare Decisis' is a principle that precedent should determine legal decision in making a case involving similar facts.
The Appointed Weeks of Pentecost
Sermon by David C. GrabbeEach day in the count is a reminder to consider what we are sowing and what we are cultivating because it will assuredly come to fruition and then evaluation.
Lacking Nothing (Part Three)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe should reduce expenses today in order to be free tomorrow. Debt is designed to bring people under subjection; the debtor is always the servant.