Biblical Answer

Tithing on Gross or Net Income

The Bible teaches that we should tithe on our gross income, not our net income. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were required to bring a tithe of their annual earnings to the Lord (Leviticus 27:30-32). This tithe was based on their gross income, not their net income. In other words, they were required to give 10% of their income before taxes and expenses were deducted. This principle is still applicable today, as we are called to be good stewards of all that God has given us, including our financial resources.

When we tithe on our net income, we are essentially giving God a percentage of what is left over after we have paid our taxes and expenses. This approach can be misleading, as it may give the impression that God is only interested in a small portion of our income. However, when we tithe on our gross income, we are acknowledging that God is the source of all our income, and that we are responsible to give Him a portion of it back. This approach also helps us to cultivate a spirit of generosity and trust in God's provision.

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that we should give generously and freely, without worrying about what we will have or what we will do (Matthew 6:25-34). While the tithe is not explicitly mentioned in the New Testament, the principle of giving generously and freely is still applicable. When we tithe on our gross income, we are demonstrating our trust in God's provision and our commitment to giving generously and freely, just as Jesus taught. By doing so, we can experience the joy and blessings of tithing, and we can be good stewards of all that God has given us.