Biblical Answer

There were multiple tithes in the Old Testament. The concept of tithing is not as simple as a single, fixed amount given to God. In fact, the Old Testament describes three different tithes: the first tithe, the second tithe, and the third tithe.

The first tithe was given to the Levites (Numbers 18:21-24). This tithe was used to support the Levites in their service to God. In turn, the Levites were required to give a tithe of the tithe to the priests (Numbers 18:26-29). The second tithe was given to the Israelites to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles (Deuteronomy 14:22-27). This tithe was to be taken to the place where God would choose for His name to dwell, and there it was to be eaten by the Israelites in joy. The third tithe, also known as the poor tithe, was given every third year to provide for the poor and needy (Deuteronomy 14:28-29).

The idea that all tithes had to go to the central sanctuary is not supported by the Old Testament. In fact, Deuteronomy 14:22-29 describes the second tithe as being taken to the place where God would choose for His name to dwell, but also to be shared in the towns. This suggests that the tithe was not limited to the central sanctuary, but was also to be shared among the people. Furthermore, the third tithe was given to the poor and needy, who were not necessarily located at the central sanctuary. Therefore, the idea that all tithes had to go to the local church is not supported by the Old Testament.