The Biblical Teaching on Tithing

 

Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one's income or produce to support religious institutions, has deep roots in the Bible. It is a concept that spans both the Old and New Testaments, reflecting the relationship between God and His people. Understanding the biblical teaching on tithing requires a look at its origins, its practice in ancient Israel, and its interpretation and application in the Christian context.

Origins of Tithing in the Old Testament

The concept of tithing first appears in the Bible in the book of Genesis. Abraham, the patriarch of the Hebrew people, gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High (Genesis 14:18-20). This act is considered a voluntary offering to honor God, setting a precedent for the practice of tithing.

Jacob, Abraham's grandson, also vowed to give a tenth of his belongings to God if God protected him on his journey (Genesis 28:20-22). These early references to tithing are significant because they show it as an act of worship and a recognition of God's provision and blessings.

Tithing Under the Mosaic Law

The practice of tithing became more formalized under the Mosaic Law. In Leviticus 27:30-34, the Israelites were commanded to give a tenth of their produce, livestock, and other possessions to the Lord. The purpose of this tithe was to support the Levites, who were the priestly tribe of Israel and did not have an inheritance of land like the other tribes (Numbers 18:21-24). The Levites, in turn, were to give a tenth of what they received to the priests (Numbers 18:26-28).

Deuteronomy 14:22-29 outlines another aspect of the tithe, known as the "festival tithe." This tithe was intended to be brought to a central place of worship and consumed there in a communal meal, celebrating God's blessings. Every third year, this tithe was stored in the towns and used to support the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows, emphasizing the social justice aspect of tithing.

Tithing in the Prophetic Literature

The prophets of the Old Testament also spoke about tithing, often in the context of Israel's unfaithfulness. In Malachi 3:8-10, the prophet Malachi rebukes the Israelites for robbing God by withholding their tithes and offerings. He urges them to bring the full tithe into the storehouse, promising that if they do so, God will "open the windows of heaven" and pour out blessings upon them. This passage is frequently cited in discussions about tithing, as it highlights both the requirement of tithing and the blessings associated with faithful giving.

Tithing in the New Testament

The New Testament does not provide explicit instructions on tithing for Christians. Jesus mentions tithing in Matthew 23:23 and Luke 11:42, criticizing the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing of spices while neglecting more important matters of the law, such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Jesus’ words suggest that while tithing was practiced, it should not be done in a legalistic manner that neglects the weightier aspects of God’s commands.

In the early Christian community, giving was practiced, but it was not limited to a strict tithe. In Acts 2:44-45 and Acts 4:32-35, believers shared their possessions freely, ensuring that no one among them was in need. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, emphasizes generous and cheerful giving, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously... for God loves a cheerful giver." This principle of generosity reflects a shift from the fixed percentage of the Old Testament tithe to a more personal and heartfelt giving.

Contemporary Views on Tithing

Today, Christians hold various views on tithing. Some denominations and churches teach tithing as a biblical mandate that remains relevant for believers, often citing the Old Testament teachings and Malachi’s admonition. Others view tithing as an Old Testament practice that is not obligatory for Christians but see the principles of generosity and supporting the church and those in need as key.

For many Christians, tithing is a starting point for giving, a discipline that helps cultivate a spirit of generosity. Others interpret the New Testament teachings as advocating for proportional and sacrificial giving based on one's ability, rather than adhering strictly to the ten percent rule.

Conclusion

Tithing, as a biblical teaching, has evolved from a mandated practice under the Mosaic Law to a more flexible expression of generosity in the New Testament. While the exact practice of tithing may vary among Christians today, the underlying principles of honoring God with one's resources and caring for those in need remain central to the biblical understanding of giving. Ultimately, tithing and giving are seen as acts of worship that reflect one’s gratitude for God’s provision and trust in His faithfulness.