“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
The Call to Generosity
As we reflect on our financial responsibilities, we recognize that tithing is more than just a duty; it is a calling for us to be generous with our resources. In the New Testament, our Savior’s teachings guide us to give willingly, sharing what we have with those in need. We understand that generosity opens the door for blessings, allowing us to be a part of God’s plan and purpose. This is a heart postured in love and commitment to the community, selflessly giving with a joyful heart. We are reminded that what we have is not truly ours but entrusted to us by God. Thus, our giving reflects our trust in Him and our desire to help others.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“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
Acts 20:35
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” – Acts 20:35
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Luke 6:38
Matthew 6:21
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
The Importance of Tithing
Tithing is about prioritizing our relationship with God, putting Him first in our financial decisions. In the New Testament, we find that this principle remains true even as we are called to give in faith rather than ritual. Our commitment to tithing signals our acknowledgment that everything we have is from God. We learn that He desires for us to draw closer to Him through our generosity, transforming not just our finances, but also our hearts. Tithing enables us to participate in the work of the Church, helping the ministry thrive and reaching the lost.
1 Corinthians 16:2
“On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.” – 1 Corinthians 16:2
Hebrews 7:8
“In the one case, the tenths are collected by people who die; but in the other case, by him who is declared to be living.” – Hebrews 7:8
Luke 21:1-4
“As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘Truly I tell you,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put more than all the others.’ ” – Luke 21:1-4
Matthew 23:23
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cummin. 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
Mark 12:43-44
“Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.’ ” – Mark 12:43-44
The Heart Behind Tithing
Tithing is not just about what we give, but also about the spirit in which we give. Our motivation is critical, as God examines our hearts. We realize that it is essential to give out of love, not obligation. When we understand that God desires our hearts to be involved in our giving, it spurs us to a deeper relationship with Him. As we commit to tithing, we open ourselves to grace that transforms our perspectives about money and generosity, leading to a more fulfilling life in Christ.
2 Corinthians 8:12
“For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.” – 2 Corinthians 8:12
Matthew 5:23-24
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” – Matthew 5:23-24
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” – Galatians 6:7
When we tithe, we express our worship to God, recognizing His sovereignty over our lives and resources. Our gifts celebrate our gratitude for His blessings and provision. Tithing becomes a beautiful opportunity to offer our hearts to Him in appreciation and service. We honor God with our financial decisions, and this practice helps us grow spiritually. By embracing the act of tithing, we become part of God’s provision for others and help in furthering His purpose on Earth. It is a holy act, pleasing to our Father.
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” – Matthew 6:24
Luke 14:33
“In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.” – Luke 14:33
Acts 2:44-45
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” – Acts 2:44-45
Romans 9:11
“Yet, before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad—in order that God’s purpose in election might stand.” – Romans 9:11
Acts 10:4
“Cornelius stared at him in fear. ‘What is it, Lord?’ he asked. The angel answered, ‘Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.'” – Acts 10:4
We often hear that when we give, we receive blessings in return—both tangible and intangible. The New Testament reiterates this truth that God rewards those who are faithful stewards of what He has given them. Tithing allows us to be instruments of His blessings to others and, in turn, brings abundance into our lives. We learn that God’s promise is fulfilled as we step out in faith, trusting Him to meet our needs. Our lives are enriched, not solely by financial gain, but by the joy of serving and giving love.
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Luke 6:38
2 Corinthians 9:11
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” – 2 Corinthians 9:11
James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” – James 1:17
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
Finally, tithing plays a significant role in fostering a sense of community among us believers. Our generous giving enables the Church to serve our local and global community, providing help and hope to those in need. As we give together, we build a stronger body of believers, living out the love of Christ. We find joy in being part of a collective mission to spread the Gospel and minister to our neighbors. Our gifts shape the way we connect and care for one another, fulfilling the purpose God has for us as His chosen people.
2 Corinthians 8:3-4
“For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people.” – 2 Corinthians 8:3-4
Philippians 1:5
“because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:5
Romans 12:13
“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” – Romans 12:13
1 John 3:17
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” – 1 John 3:17
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'” – Matthew 25:40
Final Thoughts
As we consider the teachings of tithing in the New Testament, we come to understand it’s more than just giving a portion of our income. It’s about our heartfelt generosity, the spirit behind our gifts, and how we share with our community. Tithing is indeed an act of worship that brings us closer to God. As we give, we reflect His love and grace in our lives.
Tithing opens the door to a relationship built on trust and dependency upon God. He blesses our willingness to give, meeting our needs according to His riches. We find purpose and fulfillment when we hold loosely to our treasures, allowing them to be used for the greater good.
We encourage you to explore more and continue your journey of faith. Consider looking into topics such as cheating with money and sowing seeds to deepen your understanding of God’s principles regarding wealth and generosity.