Biblical Answer

The Concept of Tithing in the Bible

Tithing is a concept that is deeply rooted in the Bible. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were commanded to tithe their crops and livestock as a way of acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty over their lives (Leviticus 27:30-32). The tithe was seen as a way of giving back to God a portion of what He had given them. This concept of tithing is still relevant today, as it teaches us the importance of giving back to God and recognizing His sovereignty over our lives.

In the New Testament, the concept of tithing is not explicitly commanded, but it is implied in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus taught that giving to the poor and needy was an important aspect of living a life that reflects God's character (Matthew 25:31-46). The apostle Paul also taught that giving to the church was an important aspect of being a Christian (2 Corinthians 9:6-15). While the specific command to tithe is not present in the New Testament, the principle of giving back to God and recognizing His sovereignty over our lives is still relevant.

Can I Tithe My Time Instead of Money?

While the Bible teaches us to give back to God a portion of our material wealth, it does not explicitly teach us to tithe our time. However, the principle of giving back to God a portion of our lives is still relevant. In the Bible, we are taught to use our time and talents to serve God and others (Matthew 22:37-40, 1 Corinthians 12:4-31). This can include volunteering, serving in the church, or using our skills and talents to help others. While tithing our time is not a specific command, it is an important aspect of living a life that reflects God's character and recognizes His sovereignty over our lives. Ultimately, the question of whether we can tithe our time instead of money is not a matter of obedience to a specific command, but rather a matter of living a life that reflects God's character and values.