Few topics divide opinion in the church like money. But what if much of what we've been taught about giving isn't truly biblical?

In this eye-opening episode, host Catherine welcomes Bible scholar and award-winning author, Clifton Payne Jr., to set the record straight on what the Bible really says about money, tithing, and generosity. They cut through decades of confusion and misinterpretation, addressing the guilt-driven giving, prosperity promises, and toxic church culture that have warped how Christians view their finances—and God's character.

Clifton Payne Jr. reveals little-known truths from scripture (including the fact that there were actually three different tithes in ancient Israel, not just one!) and explains how biblical principles of stewardship are often misunderstood or misapplied today.

What You Will Discover in This Episode:

• The deep mistrust many Christians have toward churches when it comes to money—and how church scandals, manipulation, and legalism fuel that distrust.

• Surprising discoveries like the three biblical tithes, special rules for ancient Israel, and what Jesus actually teaches about taxes, tithing, and giving.

• Why tithing is a model—not a requirement—for modern believers, and how generosity should flow from gratitude rather than obligation.

• The crucial principle of "first fruits": why giving God our best and first, not our leftovers, directly impacts the spiritual life of our families.

• The freedom found in New Testament giving, where the heart matters far more than the amount, and how generosity can be an antidote to materialism.

• Powerful stories—like the unforgettable account of Otzi, an African woman whose tiny, sacrificial gift became the greatest offering in the eyes of God.

The conversation is both practical and pastoral, exploring how to talk about money with your kids, build healthy giving habits, and reclaim joy in generosity—even if you’ve been wounded by church abuse around this issue in the past.

About the Guest:
Clifton Payne Jr. is the author of What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It's Different Than You Think, a book that has earned recognition from both the American Bookfest and International Book Awards. Drawing on years of pastoral ministry and biblical scholarship (including studies at Hebrew University in Jerusalem), Clifton untangles scripture from tradition, helping listeners return to the heart of God in their finances.

Key Takeaways for Listeners:

• Don’t start with guilt or pressure—start with prayer and let giving flow from what God puts on your heart.

• Giving first is a spiritual discipline that breaks the grip of materialism and invites God’s faithfulness into your life.

• Teaching kids to give as a first priority (not last, as our culture encourages) will shape their lifelong habits and trust in God.

• Generosity has enormous power to heal wounds, restore faith, and transform communities when practiced in freedom and love.

Episode Resources:
What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think by Clifton H. Payne Jr. 

Catherine's Free Parenting Resources

Other Episodes in This Series:

EPISODE 175: When Leaders Exploit the Flock: A Biblical Response to Scandals ( w/ Clifton Payne Jr.)

EPISODE 174: Finding Financial Freedom: Breaking Free from Debt and Anxiety (w/ Jade Durham)