The Bible talks about tithing in both the Old and New Testaments. Tithing is mentioned throughout the Bible, from Abraham to the Pharisees. The Bible clearly teaches that the Lord requires his people to tithe. Let’s take a look at what the Bible says about tithing.
The most cited scripture on tithing is found in the Old Testament. Genesis 14:20 says, “And he gave him tithes of all.” This passage is repeated in both the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy. In Leviticus 27:30–32, God commands his people to give a tenth of their produce and herds to him, indicating a tithe was an important part of worship. This command is called the Mosaic Law, and it required the Israelites to give one tenth of the harvest of their crops, herds and flocks. This was a way for God’s people to show their obedience to his law, but it was also a way for them to show their faith in him.
In the New Testament, Jesus confirms the importance of tithing and often speaks of it. In Matt. 23:23, Jesus says, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.” This verse shows us that Jesus understood and acknowledged the importance of tithing.
There is debate around what exactly constitutes a proper tithe today. Many Christian churches believe that tithing should include income derived from work as well as from the sale of products or possessions. But it is up to each individual to decide the best way to tithe.
For some, tithing may be seen as a financial burden, however, many Christians believe it is a way to keep their focus on God and his blessings. Tithing is often seen as a sign of faith and trust in God and his promises, and it is a way for people to express their gratitude and commitment to the Lord.
Tithing is something that is deeply rooted in the Bible, and it is clear that God’s people are called to give back to him in some way or another. Tithing can take different forms, and while it is not mandated in the Church today, it is ultimately up to the individual to decide what tithing looks like in his or her own life.
God’s Rewards
When it comes to tithing, there is much more to consider than just the monetary value of your tithe. There are other spiritual benefits and rewards that come when someone tithes correctly. For instance, Malachi 3:10-12 says, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.”
The promise of bountiful blessing for those who tithe is a recurring sentiment throughout the Bible. While this blessing always comes from God, tithing can be used as a way of allowing these blessings to enter our lives. By tithing, we are opening ourselves up to the possibility of greater blessings from God in our lives, both spiritually and financially.
This isn’t to say that you should tithe expecting to be blessed financially, but it is an acknowledgement that God will bless those who are faithful in their tithe to him. It serves as a reminder to us that God will provide for us and victory will come if we put our trust in Him.
Priestly Support
In addition to providing spiritual and financial blessings, the Bible states that tithing can also provide support for the priests of the Church. In Numbers 18:21, it states, “And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.”
Tithing also provided a way for the priests to do their job without worrying about financial concerns. By tithing, the priests were able to fulfill the purpose God had set out for them to care for the people of Israel. And, in a sense, it provided a way for the people of Israel to ensure God was properly represented in the world.
In today’s Church, tithing provides the same type of support for the pastors, bishops and leaders of the Church. By tithing, we are providing for them the means to do their service for God and his people.
Helping Others
Beyond supporting the priests and leaders of the Church, the Bible also speaks of tithing as a way to help those in need. This is especially evident in the example of the widow’s mite in Mark 12. In this passage, Jesus observes that the widow had put in two mites, an offering which was much less than what was expected of the rich. Yet, Jesus notices and commends the woman for her offering.
This passage reminds us that it is not the amount that counts, but the spirit with which it is given. Tithing can be a way of showing our love for God and our desire to help others. By donating a portion of our resources, we can be a part of a network of giving, even if it is only a small part.
Tithing can be a simple way to demonstrate our faith and dedication to God. By tithing, we can provide support to the Church and its leaders, and we can also help those who are in need. It is a way to give back to God in a meaningful and spiritual way.
Faithful Obedience
The Bible clearly teaches the importance of tithing. We see throughout the Bible how tithing was a way for God’s people to put their faith and trust in Him. Tithing is a way to express our love and gratitude for God and to demonstrate our obedience to His word.
Tithing is not something that we should do out of a sense of obligation or to keep God happy. Rather, it is a way to show our faith in the Lord and to demonstrate that we are devoted to His will. Tithing is more than just a financial offering; it is an act of faith and obedience to God and what He asks of us.
Real Impact
Finally, tithing can have a real impact on a person’s financial life. Tithing can help strengthen our financial situation by giving us perspective on managing our resources. When we tithe, we open ourselves up to the potential of God’s blessing upon our finances and many people have experienced this firsthand.
Tithing can also bring an increased sense of freedom because it allows us to become more generous and less selfish with our resources. By tithing, we can break the chains of materialism and live with intention and purpose.
Tithing is something that many Christians struggle with, and it can be difficult to get started. But it is a biblical practice that can bring many blessings and greater freedom.
