The Bible introduces the concept of tithing as giving a tenth of one’s income or resources to God, primarily seen in the Old Testament. It was a way to honor God, acknowledging that all blessings come from Him. Tithing was used to support the Levites, who served in the temple, and to help the needy.
In the New Testament, Jesus acknowledges tithing but emphasizes the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness over mere ritualistic observance. The spirit of giving, rather than the exact amount or percentage, is highlighted.
Wondering how tithing fits into modern Christian practice? The following sections delve into what the Bible says about tithing, its purpose, and how it applies today.
What Does the Bible Say About Paying Tithes?
The practice of tithing, which involves giving a tenth of one’s income to God, is a biblical concept with deep roots in both the Old and New Testaments. It’s presented as an act of worship, a demonstration of faith, and a practical way to support the religious and communal needs.
In the Old Testament, tithing was established as a law for the Israelites. It served multiple purposes: supporting the Levitical priesthood, providing for the maintenance of the temple, and helping the poor and needy. Tithing was a way for the Israelites to express gratitude to God for His provision and to recognize His sovereignty over all resources.
When we move to the New Testament, the practice of tithing is not as explicitly mandated as in the Old Testament. Jesus mentions tithing in the context of a broader critique of the religious leaders of His time. He acknowledges the practice but criticizes those who tithe meticulously yet neglect more significant matters of the law like justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
The New Testament focuses more on the spirit of giving rather than the specific act of tithing a tenth. It encourages generosity, cheerful giving, and providing for the needs of the church and the community. The emphasis is on giving as a response to God’s love, not as a legalistic obligation.
God’s view on tithing, as reflected in the Bible, combines both the Old and New Testament perspectives. It’s about acknowledging God’s provision, sharing blessings with others, and supporting the work of the church. Tithing, or giving, is seen as an integral part of Christian life, reflecting a heart of gratitude and a spirit of generosity.
In essence, the Bible teaches that while the act of giving a tenth (tithing) is important, the attitude and intention behind the giving are even more crucial. Christians are encouraged to give generously and willingly, not out of compulsion but out of love and gratitude towards God.
Bible Verses About Paying Tithes
- 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.”
- 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.”
- 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.”
- 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.”
- 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.”
- Luke 11:42 – “Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone.”
- 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.”
- Numbers 18:26 – “Speak to the Levites and say to them: ‘When you receive from the Israelites the tithe I give you as your inheritance, you must present a tenth of that tithe as the Lord’s offering.’”
- Hebrews 7:2 – “And Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. First, the name Melchizedek means ‘king of righteousness’; then also, ‘king of Salem’ means ‘king of peace.’”
- Genesis 14:20 – “And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.
The Bible’s teachings about tithing emphasize the importance of giving as a part of spiritual life. While the Old Testament establishes the practice of tithing as a law, the New Testament focuses on the spirit of generosity and cheerful giving. This approach reflects a shift from a legalistic obligation to a heartfelt response to God’s blessings. Tithing, or giving, is thus presented as an act of worship, gratitude, and faith, underscoring the believer’s commitment to God and the well-being of the community. The biblical perspective encourages Christians to consider giving as a way to honor God, support the church, and contribute to the larger mission of spreading the Gospel.