Biblical Answer

The Biblical Basis for Tithing

The Bible provides a clear foundation for the practice of tithing, which is a principle that originated in the Old Testament. The law of the tithe is first mentioned in Deuteronomy 14:22-23, where God commands the Israelites to set aside a tenth of their harvest each year. This principle is also found in Leviticus 27:30-33, which states that a tenth of all produce belongs to the Lord and the sanctuary. The tithe was not just a financial obligation, but a joyful expression of love and gratitude to God.

The New Covenant and Tithing

While the Old Testament law of tithing is clear, some may argue that it has no bearing on the Christian community today. However, Jesus and the apostles did not abolish the principle of tithing, but rather emphasized the importance of giving and generosity in the New Testament. In fact, Jesus taught that giving to the poor and needy is a fundamental aspect of discipleship (Matthew 25:31-46). The principle of tithing should be a no-brainer for the Christian, as it is a way of honoring God and expressing gratitude for His blessings.

Tithing in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the emphasis is not on the specific percentage of giving, but on the principle of generosity and giving to God. The apostle Paul writes, "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" (2 Corinthians 9:7). The principle of tithing is not just about giving a certain percentage of one's income, but about giving cheerfully and generously to God. As we give, we demonstrate our trust in God's provision and our commitment to living a life that honors Him. Ultimately, tithing is not just a financial obligation, but a spiritual discipline that helps us grow in our relationship with God and become more like Him.