Tithing, or giving a tenth of one’s income
Tithing, or giving a tenth of one’s income, is a concept that appears throughout the Old Testament. Malachi 3:10 teaches God’s people to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, promising that “I will open the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.” In the Old Testament, tithing was part of the Mosaic Law, supporting the Levites, the temple, and God’s work. In the New Testament, the focus shifts from a legal requirement to the principles of generous and cheerful giving. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:6–7, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Here, giving is an act of faith and love, not merely a law to obey. The book of Acts provides examples of believers giving generously: • Acts 2:44–45 describes how the early church shared all things in common and distributed to anyone in need. Their generosity met practical needs and created unity in the church. • Acts 4:32–37 shows believers selling property and laying the proceeds at the apostles’ feet. As a result, no one among them was in need, and Barnabas was commended for his open-handed giving. These examples show that giving with an open heart blesses both the receiver and the giver. Tithing today is not strictly required as a legalistic obligation, but the principle of proportional, generous, and joyful giving is still very much part of New Testament teaching. Believers are encouraged to support the work of the church, help the poor, and give freely to God’s kingdom, trusting that God will provide for their needs. Examples of blessings for generous giving: • Malachi 3:10 promises material blessing and abundance for those who faithfully give to God’s work. • 2 Corinthians 9:8 says God is able to make all grace abound toward those who give generously, so that in all things they have enough and even more to share. • Proverbs 11:25 states, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Generosity produces spiritual and practical rewards. Giving with an open hand reflects trust in God, blesses others, strengthens the church, and brings God’s favor in ways that go beyond material provision. In summary: Tithing as a law is not required under the New Covenant, but the principle of generous, cheerful, and faith-filled giving remains. Those who give faithfully, open-handedly, and with love experience blessing, provision, and spiritual growth, while also being a source of blessing to others.