Biblical Answer

Tithing in the Old Testament

Tithing was a principle that emerged in the Old Testament, with Abraham offering a tithe to Melchizedek in Genesis 14. This act was voluntary, and it was not commanded by God. However, it set a precedent for the Israelites, who were later commanded to tithe in the Law (Leviticus 27:30; Deuteronomy 14:22, etc.). The tithe was meant to be a joyful offering of love, and it was to be given to the Lord as a way of acknowledging His sovereignty over the land and its produce. The Law prescribed that certain crops be tithed, but the Pharisees took it a step further by titheing even garden herbs.

Jesus' View of Tithing

Jesus saw tithing as part of the Law of God, but he did not emphasize it as the most important aspect of the Law. In Matthew 23, he rebuked the Pharisees for their meticulousness in tithing mint, dill, and cumin, but he reproved them for neglecting the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy. He did not oppose their tithing practices, but rather their hypocrisy. Jesus was concerned that the Pharisees were so focused on tithing that they neglected the more important aspects of the Law.

Tithing in the New Testament

The principle of tithing continues in the New Testament, where it is seen as a way of giving generously to the Lord. The apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 16:2 that Christians should set aside a portion of their income for the work of God's kingdom. He emphasizes the importance of giving liberally and joyfully, and he encourages Christians to give according to their ability. The principle of tithing is not just about giving 10% of one's income, but about giving generously and cheerfully to the Lord. It is a way of acknowledging His sovereignty over our lives and our resources. As Christians, we should strive to tithe regularly and cheerfully, not just out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude for all that God has given us.