Understanding Tithing in the Bible

A Biblical Perspective

Tithing, a practice of giving a tenth of one’s income or resources, holds a significant place in the Bible. It carries principles of worship, stewardship, and gratitude towards God. This article explores the concept of tithing, tracing its origins from the Old Testament to its relevance in the New Testament.

The concept of tithing, or giving a tenth of one’s income or resources, is found in both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Tithing, or the act of giving a tenth of one’s income or resources, is a major act in the pages of the Bible. The practice of tithing carries with it principles of worship, stewardship, and thanks to God. In this article, we will look at what the Bible says about tithing, starting with its beginnings in the Old Testament and moving on to its application in the New Testament.


I. Tithing in the Old Testament

The concept of tithing was established as a voluntary act and also a commandment for the Israelites in the Old Testament. The following are some major points about tithing in the Old Testament:

  • A Pre-Law Practice: Tithing predates the Mosaic Law, as seen in examples like Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek and Jacob’s vow at Bethel.

  • Abraham’s Generosity: Genesis 14:18-20 reveals Abraham’s voluntary tithe to Melchizedek.

  • Jacob’s Devotion: Genesis 28:22 highlights Jacob’s vow to give a tenth of all God blesses him with.

The practice of tithing in the Bible predates the establishment of the Mosaic Law and can be traced back to the patriarchal era. So, tithing was observed as a pre-law practice.

Pre-Law Examples

  • Abraham’s Tithe to Melchizedek:In Genesis 14:18-20, Abraham encounters Melchizedek, the priest of God, after a victorious battle. In response to Melchizedek’s blessing, Abraham voluntarily gives him a tenth of the spoils he had acquired. 
  • This act of tithing by Abraham predates the giving of the Mosaic Law and serves as an example of tithing as a pre-law practice (See also Heb. 7:2-9). Verse 20 reads; “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.”

  • Jacob’s Vow at Bethel:In Genesis 28:22, Jacob, Abraham’s grandson, makes a vow to God after having a significant encounter with Him at Bethel. As part of his vow, Jacob promises to give a full tenth of all that God blesses him with. This vow further illustrates the practice of tithing before the Mosaic Law was established.Jacob said: 
  • “and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God’s house. And of all that you give me I will give a full tenth to you” (NSV)
  • Here, Jacob declares his intent to give a full tenth of everything God provides to him. This vow reflects Jacob’s commitment to tithing and his acknowledgement that the stone pillar he set up represents God’s house. The passage maintains the essence of Jacob’s vow to dedicate a tenth of his possessions to God, emphasizing his desire to honor God with his resources. This passage continues to illustrate the principle of personal tithing and the heart posture of gratitude and devotion towards God’s provision.
  • Voluntary Act of Worship: Both Abraham and Jacob’s tithing acts were voluntary expressions of worship and honor towards God. They recognized God’s authority and provision and responded by giving a portion of their possessions back to Him.
  • Recognition of God’s Blessings: Pre-law tithing demonstrated an acknowledgment that all blessings and provisions came from God. It was a way of expressing gratitude and trust in God’s faithfulness as the ultimate provider.
  • Spiritual and Covenantal Significance: Tithing before the Mosaic Law had spiritual and covenantal implications. It signified a person’s devotion to God, their recognition of His authority, and their participation in His covenant promises.

Principles of Pre-Law Tithing

II. Tithing Under the Mosaic Law

  • Formal Requirement: The Mosaic Law mandated tithing for the Israelites, covering produce, flocks, and herds.

  • Supporting the Levites: Numbers 18:21-24 explains the purpose of tithing for the Levites.

  • Tithes for Festivals and the Poor: Deuteronomy 14:22-29 allocated tithes for festivals and caring for the poor.

  • Pre-Law Foundation: Pre-law examples underscore that tithing wasn’t confined to the Mosaic Law; it had deep spiritual roots.

  • Timeless Practice: Tithing is a timeless expression of devotion, gratitude, and trust in God’s provision.

In the Mosaic Law, tithing was instituted as a requirement for the Israelites. The Israelites were commanded to give a tenth of their produce, flocks, and herds to support the Levites, who served in the tabernacle and later the temple (Numbers 18:21-24). Tithes were also allocated for festivals and the care of the poor (Deuteronomy 14:22-29).

While tithing existed as a pre-law practice, it was later incorporated into the Mosaic Law as a formal requirement for the Israelites. The Mosaic Law specified the details of tithing, including the allocation of tithes to the Levites, festivals, and the care of the poor. However, the pre-law examples of tithing highlight that the practice predates its codification in the Law.

Thus, tithing in the Bible is not solely confined to the period of the Mosaic Law. Pre-law examples, such as Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek and Jacob’s vow at Bethel, demonstrate that tithing was practiced voluntarily as an act of worship and recognition of God’s blessings. These pre-law examples provide a foundation for understanding the spiritual significance and principles of tithing that extend beyond the specific requirements outlined in the Mosaic Law. Tithing, therefore, can be seen as a timeless practice of devotion, gratitude, and trust in God’s provision.

III. Tithing in the Prophetic Books

  • Malachi’s Teaching: Malachi 3:8-10 addresses tithing and offerings.

  • The Command to Bring Tithes: God reminds the people of the importance of tithing.

  • Blessings of Obedience: God promises blessings for those who faithfully tithe.

  • Consequences of Disobedience: Neglecting tithes hinders the work of the temple and neglects priests and Levites.

The book of Malachi in the Old Testament contains teachings about tithes and offerings. In Malachi 3:8-10, God speaks through the prophet Malachi to address the people of Israel regarding their failure to bring the tithes and offerings into the storehouse. Here are the key teachings from this passage:

  • The command to bring tithes: God reminds the people that they have robbed Him by withholding tithes and offerings. The tithe refers to a specific portion (traditionally 10%) of one’s income or produce that was to be given to support the work of the Levites, who were responsible for the service of the temple and the spiritual needs of the people.

  • The blessings of obedience: God challenges the people to test Him in this matter of tithing. He promises that if they bring the full tithe into the storehouse, He will open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings that they cannot contain. This implies that obedience in giving tithes and offerings leads to God’s favor and provision.

  • The consequences of disobedience: On the other hand, God warns of the consequences of withholding tithes and offerings. He accuses the people of robbing Him and invites them to return to Him in repentance. Without faithful giving, the people were hindering the work of the temple and neglecting their responsibility to support the priests and Levites. If we believe in Isaiah 9:6, we have to also believe in Malachi 3:8-10.

IV. Tithing in the New Testament

  • Jesus’ Affirmation: Jesus affirmed tithing but emphasized justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23, Luke 11:42).

In the New Testament, Jesus affirmed the practice of tithing but also emphasized more significant matters such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23, Luke 11:42). He commended the faith of the Pharisees for tithing even small herbs but rebuked them for neglecting justice and the love of God (Luke 11:42):

“…for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs… these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”

In other words, Jesus is criticizing the religious leaders of his time for being meticulous about tithing even on small items like herbs but neglecting more significant aspects of God’s law, such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Thus, he doesn’t reject tithing but emphasizes the importance of focusing on matters of the heart and justice.

  • New Testament Giving: Believers are encouraged to give generously, sacrificially, and cheerfully.

  • Supporting the Church: Regular tithes and offerings support the local church.

  • Helping the Poor: Christians are urged to assist those in need.

  • Advancing God’s Kingdom: Contributions help spread the Gospel and support missionaries.

Moreover, the New Testament encourages believers to give generously, sacrificially, and cheerfully. The Apostle Paul instructs the Corinthian church to give regularly, as they have prospered, and with a willing heart (1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7). The New Testament also teaches that God loves a cheerful giver and promises that those who sow generously will reap a bountiful harvest (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). The basic truth is that tithing is the smallest requirement and not the biggest sacrifice in the lives of Christians.

Giving is an important aspect of Christian faith and is encouraged in various ways throughout the Bible. Christians are called to give out of a willing heart, according to their means, and with a spirit of generosity and cheerfulness.

  • Supporting the work of the church: Christians are encouraged to financially support the local church they attend. This is often done through regular tithes and offerings, which are monetary contributions given to support the activities of the church, including the pastoral staff, the maintenance of the church building, and various ministries and programs.
  • Meeting the needs of the poor: The Bible emphasizes the importance of caring for the poor and marginalized. Christians are encouraged to give to those in need, both within the church community and in society at large. This can involve giving money, donating resources, or volunteering time to help alleviate poverty and provide assistance to those who are less fortunate.
  • Advancing God’s kingdom: Christians are called to participate in the advancement of God’s kingdom on earth. This includes supporting missions and evangelistic efforts, both locally and globally. By giving financially, Christians can contribute to the spread of the Gospel, the establishment of churches, and the support of missionaries who are working to share the message of Christ with others.

It’s important to note that while giving is encouraged, it should never be done out of compulsion or with the expectation of receiving something in return. Instead, Christians are called to give selflessly, with a genuine desire to bless others and honor God with their resources.

Conclusion

Tithing, a practice rooted in both Old and New Testaments, reflects gratitude, devotion, and trust in God. While tithing is significant, the Bible also emphasizes broader principles of generosity, justice, and selfless giving. Ultimately, giving should come from a willing heart, reflecting God’s love and grace