What Does the Bible Say About Christian Tithing?

TL;DR

The Bible encourages tithing as an act of worship and obedience, referencing Abraham’s tithe in Genesis 14:20 and the Mosaic Law’s command in Leviticus 27:30.
Tithing in the New Testament is more about the heart and generosity than a strict law, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:7 and Matthew 23:23.
Scripture emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and joyfully, not under compulsion or as a legalistic requirement.

Tithing in the Old Testament

Tithing, the practice of giving one-tenth of one’s income to God, is a principle that is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. The first example of tithing is found in Genesis 14:20, where Abraham gives a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. This act is significant as it predates the Mosaic Law and is seen as an expression of gratitude and recognition of God’s sovereignty.

The Law of Moses, given to the Israelites, also mandated tithing. Leviticus 27:30 states, “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.” This command was part of the larger covenantal law given to Israel and served as a means to support the Levitical priesthood (Numbers 18:21) and the poor (Deuteronomy 14:28-29).

Moreover, Malachi 3:10 is often cited in discussions of tithing, where God invites Israel to test Him by bringing the full tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings in return. This passage highlights the principle of stewardship and trust in God’s provision.

Tithing in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the approach to tithing shifts from a strict legal requirement to a matter of the heart and spirit of generosity. Jesus, in Matthew 23:23, criticizes the Pharisees for their legalistic approach to tithing while neglecting more critical matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. This indicates that while tithing is not dismissed, it should not overshadow the greater principles of the faith.

The apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasizes the attitude behind giving: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This passage suggests that giving in the New Testament is to be done willingly and joyfully, rather than as a rigid legal obligation.

Furthermore, the early church’s practice, as seen in Acts 2:44-45 and 4:32-35, was marked by generous and voluntary sharing of resources rather than a strict tithe. This communal generosity was a response to the grace they had received in Christ and an expression of their unity and love for one another.

The Principle of Generosity

While the New Testament may not explicitly command a specific percentage for giving, it certainly upholds the principle of generosity. In 1 Timothy 6:18-19, Paul instructs Timothy to command the rich “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” This teaching reflects a broader biblical principle that believers are to use their resources to serve God and others.

The concept of sacrificial giving is exemplified in the account of the widow’s offering in Mark 12:41-44. Jesus commends the widow who, out of her poverty, put in everything she had. This story teaches that the value of a gift in God’s eyes is not measured by its amount but by the heart and sacrifice behind it.

Additionally, the principle of sowing and reaping, as discussed in 2 Corinthians 9:6, encourages believers to give generously, with the assurance that God will provide and bless in return. This promise, however, is not to be misconstrued as a prosperity gospel but understood within the context of God’s sovereign grace and the believer’s trust in His provision.

The Purpose of Tithing and Giving

The purpose of tithing and giving in the Bible goes beyond mere religious duty; it is a tangible expression of faith, gratitude, and dependence on God. In Philippians 4:17-18, Paul speaks of the gifts he received as a “fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” This imagery links giving to worship and spiritual service.

Furthermore, biblical giving supports the work of the church and the advancement of the Gospel. In Philippians 4:15-16, Paul acknowledges the financial support he received from the Philippian church for his missionary work. This support was crucial for the spread of the Gospel in the early church.

Moreover, giving is also a means to provide for the needs of others, reflecting Jesus’ teachings on caring for the poor and needy. In Acts 20:35, Paul recalls Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” This perspective fosters a culture of generosity within the Christian community, seeing resources as a tool for God’s kingdom and the benefit of others.

Conclusion

The biblical perspective on tithing and giving encompasses both Old and New Testament teachings, evolving from a specific law in the Old Testament to a principle of generosity rooted in the heart and faith in the New Testament. Tithing in the Old Testament served as a tangible expression of obedience and support for the religious and communal needs of Israel. In the New Testament, while the rigid law of tithing is not emphasized, the principle of generous, willing, and cheerful giving is strongly encouraged. This shift reflects the broader theme of the New Covenant, where internal attitudes and spiritual truths take precedence over external observance.

The essence of Christian giving is found in the acknowledgment of God as the source of all blessings and the recognition of our stewardship role. It’s about a heart transformed by the grace of God, expressing gratitude through generosity. This approach to giving goes beyond mere obligation; it is an act of worship, a demonstration of faith, and a means to participate in God’s work in the world.

“The Treasure Principle” by Randy Alcorn: This book delves into the joy of giving and how it releases us from the grip of materialism. Alcorn bases his insights on the words of Jesus and offers a biblical and practical approach to why and how we should give.