The Bible says that tithing is a practice that was initiated by God as a way to teach us how to be good stewards of what he has given us. Tithing is an act of worship and thanksgiving, and it’s meant to be a demonstration of our gratitude for God’s blessings.
In the Old Testament, God commanded his people to give 10% of their income back to him. This was called the tithe (or “tenth”). The tithe was given to the Levites, who were priests and other religious leaders. They would then use this money to support themselves and their families. The rest of the population could then use whatever money they had remaining for food and clothing.
Leviticus 27:30 says, “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord: it is holy to the Lord.” These gifts were a reminder that everything belonged to God and a portion was given back to God to thank him for what they had received.
How To Tithe Correctly
Understanding Tithing
Tithing is a practice in many religions that involves giving a portion of one’s income or possessions to support the church or charitable causes. It is typically considered a way to show gratitude to a higher power and to support the work of the church.
Why Tithing is Important
Tithing is considered an important spiritual discipline by many believers. It is seen as a way to demonstrate faith, trust, and obedience to God. Tithing also helps to support the work of the church, such as funding ministries, outreach programs, and charitable initiatives.How Much to Tithe
The traditional tithe is 10% of one’s income. However, some people choose to give more or less depending on their financial situation. It is important to prayerfully consider how much to give and to give cheerfully and generously.When to Tithe
Tithing should be a regular practice, typically done on a weekly or monthly basis. Some people choose to tithe a set amount each time they get paid, while others tithe based on their income for a specific time period.Where to Tithe
Tithing can be done through various channels, such as the church offering plate, online giving platforms, or direct deposit. It is important to choose a method that is convenient and secure.Benefits of Tithing
Tithing can have both spiritual and practical benefits. It helps to strengthen one’s faith and trust in God, provides support for the work of the church, and can bring a sense of fulfillment and joy in giving.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are tithing correctly and in a way that honors God and supports your church community. Remember to give cheerfully, generously, and with a grateful heart.
What Is a Tithe? – Meaning and Importance of Tithing in the Bible
The Old Testament tells us God’s people followed the law of tithing. To accomplish this commandment, Church members give one-tenth of their income to the Lord through His Church. These funds are used to grow the Church and promote the truth of the Lord throughout the world.
Tithing in the Bible
“But nothing that a person owns and devotes to the LORD—whether a human being or an animal or family land—may be sold or redeemed; everything so devoted is most holy to the LORD. “No person devoted to destruction may be ransomed; they are to be put to death. A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD. Whoever would redeem any of their tithe must add a fifth of the value to it. Every tithe of the herd and flock—every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd’s rod—will be holy to the LORD.” -Leviticus 27:28-32
According to Smith’s Bible Dictionary, a “Tithe” or tenth is the proportion of property devoted to religious uses from very early times. Instances of the use of tithes are found prior to the appointment of the Levitical tithes under the law.
Tithing first appeared in the Bible when Abraham gave one-tenth of the spoils of war to Melchizedek, the priest-king of Salem (Gen 14:18-20). The writer of Hebrews presumed that tithes were paid to a higher authority and inferred that there was a greater priesthood than Aaron’s (Hebrews 7:4-9). Tithing as a tribute to God appeared later in Genesis when Jacob promised to give a tenth to God if he returned home safely. But these tithes were spontaneous and no details were given.
Jesus refocused attention on inward attitudes. He criticized some who went so far as to tithe tiny grains of spice — not because they tithed, but because they neglected the weightier matters of the law (Matt 23:23). He regarded stewardship of finances as an indication of trustworthiness with spiritual things (Luke 16:11), which were more important (Matt 6:19-20).
Nowhere does the New Testament require Christians to tithe in the sense of giving 10 percent, but it does reiterate many things associated with tithing: those who minister are entitled to receive support ( 1 Cor 9:14); the poor and needy should be cared for (1 Cor 16:1; Gal 2:10); those who give can trust God, as the source of all that is given (2 Cor 9:10), to supply their needs (2 Cor 9:8; Philippians 4:19); and giving should be done joyously (2 Cor 9:7).
The New Testament directs that taxes be paid to the state (Romans 13:6-7), which replaced Israel’s theocracy. Paul’s vocabulary and teaching suggest that giving is voluntary and that there is no set percentage. Following the example of Christ, who gave even his life (2 Cor 8:9), we should cheerfully give as much as we have decided (2 Cor 9:7) based on how much the Lord has prospered us (1 Cor 16:2), knowing that we reap in proportion to what we sow (2 Cor 9:6) and that we will ultimately give account for our deeds (Romans 14:12).
Tithes and Offering Scriptures in The New Testament
In the New Testament, tithes and offerings are referenced as a way for believers to support the work of the church and to honor God with their resources. Here are 10 Bible verses that explain the importance of tithes and offerings in the New Testament:
1. Matthew 23:23
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others.”
2. Luke 11:42
“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.”
3. Hebrews 7:8
“In the one case, men who will die receive tithes, but in the other case, by one of whom it is witnessed that he lives.”
4. 1 Corinthians 9:14
“In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.”
5. 2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
6. Malachi 3:10
“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 there will not be room enough to store it.”
7. 1 Timothy 5:17-18
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For Scripture says, ‘Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,’ and ‘The worker deserves his wages.'”
8. Acts 20:35
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”
9. Proverbs 3:9-10
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
10. 2 Corinthians 8:12
“For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.”
Reminding ourselves of these verses can help us to understand the biblical principles of tithes and offerings and encourage us to be faithful stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.
Tithing in The New Testament Kjv
Tithing is a concept that has been practiced for centuries by believers in God. In the New Testament, specifically in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, tithing is mentioned in several passages. While the practice of tithing is not explicitly commanded in the New Testament, there are verses that provide insight into the importance of giving back to God a portion of what He has blessed us with.
1. Matthew 23:23– “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”
2. Luke 11:42 – “But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”
3. **1 Corinthians 9:13-14** – “Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.”
4. **Hebrews 7:8** – “And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.”
5. **Hebrews 7:9** – “And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham.”
6. **1 Corinthians 16:2** – “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.”
7. **2 Corinthians 9:6-7** – “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”
8. **Acts 20:35** – “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
9. **Romans 12:13** – “Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.”
10. **Galatians 6:6-7** – “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
By studying these Bible verses on tithing in The New Testament KJV, believers can gain a better understanding of the importance of giving back to God and supporting those in need.
What Is a Tithe?
A tithe is really an Old Testament term. It was the gifts that the Israelites were required to, really the tax that they were required to pay. Nowadays we generally use it as just a way of saying give 10% of your income to the church. There’s nothing in the New Testament, in the sort of new covenant understanding of what it means to be God’s people, that encourages us to think that we’re required to give 10% of our income to the church.
In many ways the standards of the New Testament are a lot stricter in some ways, or a lot loftier, let’s put it that way. So we’re required to give generously, to give sacrificially, to see the relief of the poor, the support of the ministry, the spread of the gospel through all nations. So I don’t know. There may be some people for whom giving 10% is unwise. There are probably many people in America for whom giving 10% would be actually pretty easy, and in fact it wouldn’t really be sacrificial or generous.
What Does Paul Say About Tithing
1. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
In this passage, Paul instructs the believers in Corinth to set aside a portion of their income on the first day of the week for the collection. This highlights the importance of giving regularly and consistently to support the work of the church.
2. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7
Paul emphasizes the principle of sowing and reaping when it comes to giving. He encourages the Corinthians to give cheerfully, not out of obligation or compulsion, but because God loves a cheerful giver. This teaches us that giving should come from a place of joy and gratitude, not duty.
3. Romans 12:8
In Romans, Paul lists giving as one of the spiritual gifts that believers possess. This highlights the importance of giving as a way to show generosity and support for others in need. It also serves as a reminder that giving is not just a financial obligation but a spiritual gift that can benefit both the giver and the receiver.
4. 1 Timothy 5:17-18
Here, Paul discusses the idea of providing for those who minister in the church. He quotes Deuteronomy 25:4 and Luke 10:7 to emphasize the principle that those who work deserve to be compensated for their labor. This passage underscores the importance of supporting the church and its leaders through financial contributions.
5. Philippians 4:17
In Philippians, Paul expresses his gratitude to the believers in Philippi for their partnership in the gospel. He acknowledges the financial support they have provided and reassures them that their giving is not in vain. This passage highlights the mutual benefit of giving and receiving, showing that both parties are blessed through the act of giving.
Overall, Paul’s teachings on tithing emphasize the importance of giving generously, cheerfully, and regularly to support the work of the church and those who minister within it. By following his guidance, believers can experience the joy and blessings that come from honoring God with their finances.
| Scriptural Reference | Teaching |
|—————————|—————————————-|
| 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 | Set aside a portion for regular giving |
| 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 | Give cheerfully and joyfully |
| Romans 12:8 | Giving is a spiritual gift |
| 1 Timothy 5:17-18 | Support those who minister in the church|
| Philippians 4:17 | Giving is a partnership in the gospel |
Blessings of Tithing Scriptures
Tithing, the act of giving a portion of one’s income to the church or charity, is a practice that has been emphasized in the Bible. Many believe that by tithing, not only are they obeying God’s commandments but they are also opening themselves up to receive blessings from Him. Let’s explore some of the scriptures from the Bible that highlight the blessings of tithing.
1. Malachi 3:10
“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
2. Proverbs 11:24-25
“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
3. Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”
4. Proverbs 3:9-10
“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
5. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”
6. Proverbs 22:9
“Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.”
7. Matthew 6:33
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
By tithing, we are putting our trust in God to provide for our needs and in return, God promises to bless us abundantly. Additionally, tithing teaches us the importance of generosity and stewardship, as we are called to be good stewards of the resources that God has blessed us with. Let us continue to tithe faithfully and experience the blessings that come with obedience to God’s word.
Where Should I Pay My Tithe According to The Bible
When it comes to tithing, many Christians often wonder where they should pay their tithes according to the Bible. Tithing is a practice that dates back to the Old Testament, where believers were instructed to give a tenth of their income to support the priesthood and temple upkeep. In the New Testament, Jesus also affirmed the importance of tithing but called for a heartfelt and sincere giving.
Where to Pay Your Tithe According to the Bible
1. Local Church: Many Christians believe in giving their tithes to their local church as a way of supporting the ministry and mission work. The church relies on tithes and offerings to carry out various programs and projects.
2. Christian Ministries: Some believers choose to support Christian ministries and organizations with their tithes. These ministries may focus on missions, humanitarian work, or outreach programs.
3. Community Needs: In some cases, tithing can also involve giving to those in need within the community. This can include local charities, food banks, or outreach programs that support the less fortunate.
4. Personal Giving: Tithing is not limited to giving money; it can also involve giving your time, skills, or resources to help others. This form of tithing reflects the biblical principle of giving generously and cheerfully.
Important Considerations for Tithing
– Tithing is a personal choice and should be done with a cheerful heart (2 Corinthians 9:7).
– The Bible does not specify a set percentage for tithing, but a tithe is traditionally understood as ten percent of one’s income.
– Tithing should be done with a spirit of generosity and gratitude towards God for His blessings.
| Where to Pay Tithe | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Local Church | Support the ministry and mission work of the church. |
| Christian Ministries | Contribute to missions, humanitarian work, or outreach programs. |
| Community Needs | Give to local charities, food banks, or outreach programs. |
| Personal Giving | Share your time, skills, or resources to help others. |
By following these biblical guidelines for tithing, believers can honor God with their finances and support the work of the church and the community. Remember, tithing is not just about giving money but about giving from the heart in a spirit of love and generosity.
Does Tithing Apply to Christians Today?
The reason why tithing is an important theme for Christians is because it really is a symbol of how God calls us to live our lives as stewards rather than owners.
I come from a legalistic background where I used to be afraid not to tithe, or I used to be proud of tithing. My fear was if I didn’t tithe, my tires would fall off my car. My arrogance was if I tithe then God had to bless me with prosperity. But really to reflect upon tithing in the context of the gospel, what we begin to demonstrate or see is this … that the more the law of God is transformed by the grace of God in our lives, we move from a sense of duty to a sense of delight. This is why really in the New Testament you don’t hear a whole lot about tithing, not because believers are not expected to give, they’re just expected to be a lot more generous because of the fullness of the work of Jesus that we celebrate.
Paul demonstrated this in writing to believers in Corinth and reflecting upon a group of very poor Christians in Thessalonica. And he wrote to believers in Corinth because he was trying to generate their interest in caring for a ministry to the poor believers in Jerusalem.
And here’s the way he motivated them, said, “We want you to know about the grace that came to believers in Macedonia, who, out of their extreme poverty and suffering, did not do as we expected. They gave themselves to the Lord, and then they asked us for the privilege of sharing in this offering.”
Now what Paul does there is this, he doesn’t shame believers in Corinth into tithing. He simply says, here’s what the Gospel does when it grabs hold of your heart. You don’t think just in terms of giving the excess, but you’re showing up in God’s story, which is a story of redemption and restoration. A story that frees me from defining my life in terms of what I own, rather who owns me, which is Jesus.
So in many ways, tithing is kind of the entrance level into a life of grace. The more the grace of the gospel captures my heart, the less I’m gonna ask, “How much do I have to give,” but more, “How can I live more fully missionally, generously to the glory of God,” because of the lavish love, the great generosity, God’s lavished upon me in Jesus.
Does All of My Tithe Have to Go to the Church?
If I were to get to summarize it in a nutshell, I would say please do whatever you can to be a part of a church where you would be comfortable giving 100% of your offering to that church. I want to start with that, but let me unpack that. I think the word tithe is not so helpful in discussing Christian giving anymore. If we go and look at what happened under the Old Covenant in the Old Testament, a godly Hebrew man would’ve given anywhere from 30% to 35% of his income to the support of the temple, the support of the poor, the support of the priests. I mean, it was a pretty hefty tax, if you will, to be part of the Kingdom of God under the Old Testament.
Well, when you get to the New Testament, the command to tithe is not there. What it’s been replaced by is what I would call grace-giving, which is exactly what Paul says in Second Corinthians eight. He refers to giving as an act of grace. You go to Second Corinthians nine and he talks about cheerful giving. And there are so many other places in the gospels. I think Luke 12, where you get this idea that because God has given us so much, we should be willing to give everything over to others.
So in the New Testament, you have this idea of grace giving. Not only that, but in the New Testament you have this idea that ground zero for Christian ministry is the church, Acts 1A. You see this great commission at work to bring the Gospel to Jerusalem and Judea and Sumeria into all the ends of the earth. And then what do you see? The Gospel is planted, churches sprout up, and then churches now bear the responsibility of planting the gospel throughout the world. So the church is ground zero for Christian ministry.
So to someone who comes to me and says hey, do I have to give all of my tithes to the church, what I want to say is what I want you to do is be a part of a church that you see is so faithful to the Bible, has a heart for the nations, has elders who are really worthy of double honor, and I want you to have the heart to give everything to that church. But having said that, I think you’re absolutely free to give to Godly para-church ministries that are serving the Lord, especially ones that you may be personally involved in or personally excited about. You’re free to give to those ministries.
Tithes and Offering Verses
Throughout the Bible, there are many verses that discuss the importance of giving tithes and offerings. These verses provide guidance on how we can honor God with our finances and support the work of the church.
1. Malachi 3:10
“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
2. Leviticus 27:30
“Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.”
3. 2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
4. Proverbs 3:9-10
“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
5. Matthew 6:21
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
6. Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
7. Proverbs 11:24-25
“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
8. 1 Chronicles 29:14
“But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you.”
9. Exodus 35:5
“Take from among you a contribution to the Lord. Whoever is of a generous heart, let him bring the Lord’s contribution.”
10. Hebrews 13:16
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”