Biblical Answer

My response to the question "Should my tithe go only to my church?" is as follows:

Understanding the Principle of Tithing

The concept of tithing is rooted in the Old Testament, where the people of Israel were required to bring 10 percent of their annual earnings to the Lord. However, this principle is not directly applicable to the Christian community today. In the New Testament, Jesus taught that the tithe was not the primary issue, but rather the heart and motivations behind giving (Matthew 23:23). The Bible emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving, but it does not specify that the tithe must go only to the local church.

Designating the Tithe

While the tithe is often associated with the local church, it is not the only option. The Didache, an early Christian book, suggests that a portion of the tithe can be designated for the support of other Christian ministries that need help. This approach acknowledges that the needs of the kingdom of God are broader than just the local church. By designating a portion of the tithe for other ministries, Christians can support a wider range of evangelism, discipleship, and community outreach efforts.

Practical Considerations

In practice, it is common for Christians to designate a significant portion of their tithe to their local church. However, it is not necessary to give 100 percent of the tithe to the local church. The Bible encourages Christians to be generous and give sacrificially, but it also acknowledges that individuals may have different circumstances and priorities. Ultimately, the decision of how to designate the tithe should be guided by prayer, biblical principles, and a desire to honor God in one's giving. It is essential to be honest and transparent about one's giving, rather than pretending to be a tither when one is not. By doing so, Christians can cultivate a heart of generosity and obedience to God's principles of giving.