The Foundation of Tithing: Why It Matters to God
Tithing, the act of giving one-tenth of your income to God, is a practice deeply rooted in Scripture. While it is often discussed in the context of church giving, tithing is much more than a financial transaction—it is a profound act of worship, gratitude, and trust in God. For many believers, tithing raises questions: Why does it matter? Is it still relevant today? What does the Bible truly say about it?
This first part in our series on tithing lays the foundation by exploring its Biblical origins, purpose, and significance in our relationship with God.
1. The Origin of Tithing: A Divine Principle
Tithing predates the Mosaic Law, making it a timeless principle rather than just a command tied to the Old Testament covenant. Its roots can be traced back to Abraham, the father of faith.
Abraham’s Tithe to Melchizedek
- Genesis 14:18-20: “Then Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, ‘Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.’ Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”
- After a victorious battle, Abraham’s first instinct was to honour God by giving a tenth of his spoils. This act signified gratitude and recognition that God was the source of his victory and blessings.
Jacob’s Vow to Tithe
- Genesis 28:20-22: “Then Jacob made a vow, saying, ‘If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God… and of all that You give me, I will give You a tenth.’”
- Jacob’s vow highlights tithing as a personal commitment to acknowledge God’s provision and protection.
2. Tithing in the Mosaic Law: A Command for Worship
Under the Mosaic Law, tithing was formalised as part of Israel’s covenant relationship with God. It served both a practical and spiritual purpose.
Supporting the Levites and the Tabernacle
- Numbers 18:21: “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the Tent of Meeting.”
- The Levites, who were responsible for the spiritual leadership of Israel, relied on tithes for their sustenance. This ensured that God’s work continued without interruption.
Celebrating God’s Blessings
- Deuteronomy 14:22–23: “Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine, and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God… so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.”
- Tithing was also a way for the Israelites to celebrate God’s blessings and to remember that He was their ultimate provider.
3. Tithing as Worship: A Heart Posture
Tithing is more than a religious obligation—it is an act of worship that reflects our heart’s posture toward God.
Acknowledging God as the Source of All Blessings
- Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”
- By tithing, we declare that everything we have belongs to God and that we are merely stewards of His resources.
Putting God First
- Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honour the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
- Tithing is a tangible way to prioritise God in our lives, giving Him the first and best of what we have.
4. Tithing in the New Testament: A Matter of the Heart
While the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing, it upholds the principles of generosity, stewardship, and sacrificial giving.
Jesus Affirms the Tithe
- Matthew 23:23: “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.”
- Jesus criticised the Pharisees for their legalism but affirmed the practice of tithing, emphasising that it should be accompanied by justice and mercy.
The Spirit of Generosity
- 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.”
- The New Testament shifts the focus from obligation to the attitude of the heart, encouraging believers to give joyfully and generously.
5. Why Tithing Still Matters Today
Tithing remains a vital practice for modern believers, offering spiritual, personal, and communal benefits.
Spiritual Benefits
- Tithing strengthens our faith by teaching us to rely on God’s provision.
- It deepens our relationship with God by aligning our finances with His purposes.
Personal Benefits
- Tithing fosters gratitude, helping us to recognise God’s blessings in our lives.
- It cultivates discipline and stewardship, enabling us to manage our resources wisely.
Communal Benefits
- Tithes support the local church and its ministries, enabling the spread of the gospel and the care of those in need.
- Malachi 3:10: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.”
Practical Steps to Begin Tithing
- Start Where You Are: If tithing 10% feels overwhelming, start with a smaller percentage and work toward the goal.
- Make It a Priority: Set aside your tithe first before allocating funds to other expenses.
- Pray for guidance: Ask God to help you trust Him and give with a cheerful heart.
- Stay Consistent: Tithing is a discipline that grows over time. Commit to it as a regular act of worship.
Conclusion: The Heart of Tithing
Tithing is not just about money—it’s about trust, worship, and gratitude. It acknowledges God as the ultimate provider and invites His blessings into our lives. As you reflect on the Biblical foundation of tithing, may you be inspired to honour God with the firstfruits of all He has given you.
Key Verse:
“Honour the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10
Stay tuned for Part Two: Trusting God with What You Have, where we’ll explore how tithing strengthens our faith and reliance on God.