What Is Tithing?

People who don't believe in tithing often argue that they work hard for their money and can't afford to give 10 percent to churches, ministries, religious organizations or charities. They don't understand--or choose not to remember--that according to the Bible, it's God that gives them the ability to make a living and everything comes from Him (Psalm 24:1). For many people, once they understand the blessings of tithing they realize they can't afford not to tithe.

Identification
The word tithe means "tenth." The practice of tithing is defined as giving away 10 percent of an weekly or monthly income to a church or charitable organization. The value of tithing varies among different churches. While some hold it as a principle, others use it as standard for giving.

History
The first Biblical reference to tithing is recorded in Genesis 14:20, in which Abraham gave a tithe of his treasure to the high priest, Melchizedek. Five hundred years later, it's written that God set up a tithing law for the Israelites to support the priests and Levites serving in the Tent of Meeting (Numbers 18:21-16). Also, Jewish males paid annual temple taxes (Exodus 38:26). King Solomon demanded a temple tax and tithes to support temple priests when he built the first temple in Jerusalem in 960 B.C. When the temple was destroyed in 70 A.D., the temple tax stopped because there was no temple.
New Testament references on tithing include Matthew 23:23, Luke 11:42, Luke 18:12 and Hebrews 7:8-9. Today, most churches encourage tithing, however, in some churches it's needed for membership.

Benefits
Tithing provides greater wisdom in using your money wisely. It strengthens faith, giving peace of mind. By tithing, people receive opportunities to grow closer to God as they witness how he takes care of them. When you don't tithe, you miss the joy of knowing how God comes through in times of need, strengthening faith. Tithers are more prone to become involved with missions through prayer and serving. Also, tithing gives inner peace, as givers feel good they're making a difference in lives.

Misconceptions
Tithing is often considered just giving money. Many believe tithing is taking 10 percent of an income after taxes. However, tithing is giving before taxes. The passage in Proverbs 3:9-1 supports this belief. "Honor the Lord with your possessions and with the first fruits of all your increase so your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow with new wine."

 

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"Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do, says the Lord..., I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!” -- Malachi 3:10