Biblical Answer

Should I tithe on gross or net income?

In the Old Testament, the tithe was established on a level playing field, with everyone required to pay the same percentage of their gross income. This means that the tithe was based on the total income earned, not on the net income after expenses. For example, if someone earned $100 per week, they would tithe on that $100, not on their net income of $80 after expenses. This principle is still applicable today, as it is a matter of obedience to God's command to tithe. It is not about how much money we have left over after expenses, but about giving a portion of what God has entrusted to us.

The idea of titheing on net income is a modern concept that has been adopted by some churches, but it is not based on biblical principle. In fact, the Bible does not mention the concept of net income or expenses in relation to tithing. The tithe is a way of acknowledging that God is our King and Provider, and of giving back to Him a portion of what He has given us. It is not a way of managing our finances or getting tax deductions. When we tithe on gross income, we are showing that we trust God to provide for our needs, and that we are willing to give up something in order to follow His command.

It is worth noting that the idea of titheing on net income can be used as a way to avoid giving to God. If we only give God a portion of what we have left over after expenses, we may find ourselves giving very little to the kingdom of God. On the other hand, when we tithe on gross income, we are giving a consistent percentage of what God has entrusted to us, regardless of how much we earn. This is a way of building faith and trust in God, and of showing that we are committed to following His command to tithe. As the Bible says, "Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, 'In what way have we robbed You?' In tithes and offerings" (Malachi 3:8). We should strive to tithe on gross income, as a way of obeying God's command and building our faith.