Biblical Answer

Should my tithe go only to my church?

Understanding the Command to Tithe

The command to tithe is rooted in the Old Testament, specifically in Leviticus 27:30-33. The tithe was a mandatory 10 percent of one's annual earnings, which was to be given to the Lord through the Levites. However, the New Testament does not explicitly command Christians to tithe. In fact, the Didache, one of the earliest Christian books, suggests that it is perfectly legitimate to designate a portion of one's tithe for the support of other Christian ministries that need help.

The Myth of the Local Church

The idea that all one's tithe must go to their local church is a myth that originated from the Old Testament. In Israel, the tithe was brought into a central place, the storehouse, and then distributed to the people in need. However, in the New Testament, the principle of tithing is not limited to the local church. In fact, Jesus taught that one's tithe should be given to those who are in need, including the poor, the widow, and the orphan (Matthew 23:23). This means that one's tithe can be given to various ministries and organizations that are working to serve the poor and the needy.

Designating One's Tithe

While the local church is an important place to give, it is not the only place where one's tithe should be given. In fact, it is perfectly legitimate to designate a portion of one's tithe for the support of other Christian ministries that need help. This means that one's tithe can be given to various organizations, charities, and missions that are working to serve the poor and the needy. Ultimately, the key is to be generous and to give according to one's means, while also being mindful of the needs of those around us. As the Bible says, "Give to everyone who asks you, and do not ask them who is asking you" (Luke 6:30). By giving to those in need, we are not only obeying God's command to tithe, but also reflecting His love and care for the world.