Tithing: A Biblical Perspective from the Old and New Testaments

A symbolic scene depicting an offering plate

Introduction

Good morning. Today, we will explore the concept of tithing, a practice rooted deeply in Scripture and one that has evolved from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Tithing is often understood as giving a portion of our income to God, but it represents much more—it is an act of worship, obedience, and trust in God's provision. By examining tithing through the lens of both the Old and New Testaments, we gain a clearer understanding of its significance and how it applies to our lives today.

Tithing in the Old Testament: A Covenant of Provision

1. The Origin of Tithing

   - The concept of tithing first appears in Genesis, when Abraham gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. This act set a precedent for giving a portion of one’s earnings to God as an acknowledgment of His blessings.

   - Scripture Reference: "Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything." (Genesis 14:20)

2. Tithing as a Requirement under the Law

   - Under the Mosaic Law, tithing became a formal requirement for the Israelites. They were commanded to give a tenth of their produce, livestock, and income to support the Levitical priesthood, the temple, and the poor.

   - Scripture Reference: "A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord." (Leviticus 27:30)

   - Purpose of Tithing: Tithing was a way for the Israelites to recognize God’s sovereignty over their lives and His provision for their needs. It was also a means of ensuring that the temple and the priests were provided for, as they had no inheritance of their own.

3. The Blessings of Tithing

   - God promised to bless those who faithfully tithed. The prophet Malachi emphasized that tithing was not just a duty but a way to unlock God’s blessings.

   - Scripture Reference: "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it." (Malachi 3:10)

Tithing in the New Testament: A Call to Generosity and Stewardship

1. Jesus and Tithing

   - Jesus affirmed the practice of tithing but emphasized that it should not be done in a legalistic or self-righteous manner. Instead, tithing should be an expression of love, mercy, and justice.

   - Scripture Reference: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." (Matthew 23:23)

2. The Spirit of Giving

   - In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from the specific act of tithing to the broader principle of generous giving. Believers are encouraged to give according to their means, with a cheerful heart, and in response to the needs of others.

   - Scripture Reference: "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7)

   - Generosity Beyond Tithing: While tithing is a starting point, the New Testament calls us to go beyond the tenth and to give sacrificially and generously, reflecting the grace we have received from Christ.

3. The Principle of Stewardship

   - Tithing in the New Testament is also about stewardship—managing the resources God has entrusted to us. We are called to be faithful stewards, using our time, talents, and treasures for God's glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

   - Scripture Reference: "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." (Luke 16:10)

Applying Tithing to Our Lives Today

1. A Heart of Worship: Tithing should be an act of worship, recognizing God as the source of all our blessings. It is not merely a financial transaction but a spiritual practice that deepens our relationship with God.

   - Scripture Reference: "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops." (Proverbs 3:9)

2. A Spirit of Generosity: As New Testament believers, we are called to give generously and sacrificially. Our giving should be motivated by love for God and compassion for others, not by obligation or guilt.

   - Scripture Reference: "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap." (Luke 6:38)

3. Faithful Stewardship: Tithing is part of a broader call to be faithful stewards of all that God has given us. This includes not only our finances but also our time, talents, and resources.

   - Scripture Reference: "Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy." (1 Corinthians 4:2)

Conclusion

Tithing, whether viewed through the lens of the Old Testament or the New Testament, is a powerful practice that honors God, supports His work, and blesses the giver. While the specifics of tithing may differ between the covenants, the underlying principles of worship, generosity, and stewardship remain constant. As we give, let us do so with a cheerful heart, trusting in God’s provision and seeking to further His kingdom.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the opportunity to give back to You a portion of what You have so generously given us. Help us to give with a heart of worship, a spirit of generosity, and a commitment to faithful stewardship. May our giving bring glory to Your name and advance Your kingdom here on earth. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.