When we talk about donating the church and Christian finance, tithing remains a fundamental and often debated topic. Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one’s income to the church or ministry, has been an ancient tradition rooted in the Bible. Some argue that Jesus abolished the concept of tithing, but a closer examination of Scripture reveals a different perspective. In this blog post, we will explore the biblical passages that support the act of tithing and address common arguments against the idea that Jesus got rid of this sacred practice.
Tithing finds its origins in the Old Testament, where it was a central aspect of the Mosaic Law. In Leviticus 27:30, we read, “Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.” The Israelites were instructed to bring a tenth of their crops, flocks, and herds to the tabernacle or temple as an offering to God. This act of giving was meant to acknowledge God’s ownership and provision over their lives.
Some critics argue that Jesus abolished tithing during His ministry. While Jesus did challenge certain religious practices that had lost their true meaning, He also upheld the principle of giving generously. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus admonishes the Pharisees, saying, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.”
Here, Jesus is not condemning tithing itself but rather the Pharisees’ hypocrisy in giving a tenth while neglecting other vital aspects of their faith. By affirming the continuation of tithing, Jesus implies that it remains a relevant practice for believers who genuinely seek to honor God with their finances.
Some argue that since tithing is predominantly discussed in the Old Testament, it does not apply to Christians today. However, the concept of tithing is not entirely absent from the New Testament. In Hebrews 7:8, it refers to the practice of tithing by Abraham to Melchizedek, a priest-king, long before the Mosaic Law was established. This implies that tithing predates the law and continues to hold significance beyond it.
Throughout the Bible, tithing is associated with blessings from God. In Malachi 3:10, God urges the Israelites to “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
While tithing is not a means of earning God’s favor or manipulating Him, it demonstrates our trust in Him as our provider. It fosters an attitude of gratitude and humility, acknowledging that everything we have is a gift from God.
Critics may point to Matthew 5:17, where Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” They argue that Jesus’ fulfillment of the law means that tithing is no longer necessary. However, Jesus’ fulfillment of the law does not negate its principles; instead, it brings them to completion and highlights their true intent.
So how do we tithe in today’s culture? For many of us, 10% of our income is a lot, and it can seem impossible to do it effectively.
Here are just a few practical ways that you can begin tithing.
1. Create a budget: Before you start tithing, it’s essential to understand your finances. Create a budget to track your income, expenses, and savings. This will help you determine how much you can afford to tithe without compromising your financial stability.
2. Start with a smaller percentage: If tithing 10% seems overwhelming at first, consider starting with a smaller percentage and gradually increasing it as you become more comfortable. The important thing is to make it a consistent habit.
3. Automate your giving: Automating your tithing can help you stay committed to your giving goals and ensure consistency.
4. Practice gratitude: Tithing is not just about financial contributions; it’s also an expression of gratitude for what you have. Take time to appreciate the blessings in your life and the opportunity to give back.
Tithing is a biblical practice rooted in God’s Word, and its significance stretches from the Old Testament to the New Testament. By giving a tenth of our income to God’s work, we demonstrate our trust in Him as our provider and contribute to the ministry and outreach of the Church. While some may argue that Jesus got rid of tithing, a careful examination of Scripture reveals that He upheld the principle of giving generously and faithfully. As Christians, embracing the tradition of tithing can lead us to experience the blessings of obedience and the joy of partnering with God in His redemptive work.
