Tithing

Since we obviously agree the Bible is God’s word, we can then talk about the subject of “tithing.”  We find under the Law of Moses that God required a tenth (tithe) of everything they had from the smallest to the largest.  These offerings were to be used by the priests, the temple workers and their families.  Today, much the same happens with our “giving”:  the church’s building, ministers and workers are supported.

Are we still required to “tithe?”  That is not the real question.  The real question is, does this robbing God still apply today.  In Malachi 3:8-9 they were not fulfilling their “tithes.”  They were to be cursed.  Malachi 8:10 says, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.  Test Me in this and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessings that you will not have room enough for it.”

Does this promise still apply today?  No where in the New Testament has this promise ever been rescinded, just as there is not mention that God rescinded His promise about a flood.

Many things that are told us in the Old Testament have been stated again in the New Testament; however, it is noteworthy that Jesus holds us to a higher standard than those under the Law of Moses.  For example, do not Murder (Ex 20:13), Jesus says anyone who hates his brother is a murderer (1 Jo 3:15).  Do not commit adultery (Ex 20:14), Jesus says anyone who lusts commits adultery in his heart (Matt 5:28).  The entire tithe will belong to the Lord (Lev 27:32).  Give as you are prospered (I Cor 16:2).  Which principle is harder to live up to?

There is no mention in the New Testament of a percentage of giving but the Old Testament was given to “teach us” (Romans 15:4).  Paul’s instructions to the early church were to give every first day of the week (keeps it on our minds) and to give as we have been prospered.  Can we say we have only been blessed 10%?  Under the Law of Moses, they have in addition to the “tithe.”  These “offerings” were love offerings for specific purposes and may have been as much as 30% of their income according to Bible scholars.

2 Cor 9:6-7 says, “…Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.  Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Luke 6:38 says, “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.”

Acts 20:35 brings out the point “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Tithing/Giving is not an expense, it’s an opportunity!