The Principle of Tithing
1. Definition of Tithing
•Meaning: Tithing is the practice of giving one-tenth (10%) of one’s income or resources to God, usually through the church or religious organization.
•Origin of the term: The word “tithe” comes from an Old English word meaning “tenth.”
2. Biblical References to Tithing
•Old Testament Examples:
•Genesis 14:18-20:
“Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, ‘Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.’ Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”
•Leviticus 27:30:
“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.”
•Numbers 18:21:
“I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting.”
•Deuteronomy 14:22-23:
“Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.”
•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.”
•New Testament Context:
•Matthew 23:23:
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.”
•Hebrews 7:1-2:
“This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him, and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything.”
3. Purpose of Tithing in the Bible
•Support for Religious Institutions: In ancient Israel, the tithe was used to support the Levites, the priests who had no land of their own (Numbers 18:24).
•Charitable Giving: A portion of the tithe was also designated to help the poor, orphans, and widows (Deuteronomy 26:12).
•Expression of Worship: Tithing was a way to show gratitude and honor to God for His provision.
•Covenant Relationship: It symbolized a covenant relationship between God and His people, acknowledging God as the ultimate provider.
4. Modern Practice of Tithing
•Churches and Tithing:
•Many Christian denominations continue to encourage tithing, although practices and interpretations may vary.
•Tithes are often used to support church ministries, missions, staff salaries, and charitable works.
•Voluntary Giving: In many modern contexts, tithing is considered a voluntary act of faith rather than a strict legal requirement.
•Prosperity Theology: Some modern movements teach that tithing guarantees financial blessings and prosperity, though this interpretation is controversial and debated within Christian circles.
•Alternative Views:
•Some Christians believe in giving according to personal conviction, citing passages like 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.”
•Tithing vs. Offerings:
•Tithing refers specifically to the 10% of one’s income, while offerings are additional gifts beyond the tithe.
•Digital Giving: Many modern churches provide online platforms for tithing, making it easier for members to give consistently.
5. Challenges and Controversies
•Legalism vs. Grace: Some argue that tithing is an Old Covenant practice not required under the New Covenant of grace.
•Financial Strain: Some believers find the practice financially burdensome, particularly in times of economic hardship.
•Generosity Beyond 10%: Other Christians advocate for sacrificial giving beyond 10%, viewing tithing as the starting point for generosity.
- Keeping Records Since it is possible to count off charitable donations on taxes many people keep careful records. Churches will provide documentation. It is debateable if this is in keeping with the principle of the tithe.
Matthew 6:3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,
6. Conclusion
•Tithing as Faith Practice: While interpretations and practices vary, tithing remains a significant spiritual discipline for many Christians, embodying principles of trust in God, generosity, and provision for religious and charitable causes
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