The practice of tithing has been a topic of debate and discussion among believers for centuries. While some question its relevance in modern times, others uphold it as a sacred duty to honour God and support His work. In exploring the justification for tithing, it is essential to examine the words of Jesus in the Gospels, the teachings of Hebrews, and the Old Testament scriptures that provide insight into this practice. One of the key points of contention is whether Jesus abolished the payment of tithes or endorsed it as a valid expression of faith. By delving into these scriptures, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role of tithing in the life of a believer.
The concept of tithing, or giving a tenth of one’s income or resources, is indeed deeply rooted in the Bible. In the Old Testament, tithing was established as a practice for the Israelites to support the Levites (the priestly tribe) and the temple, and also to care for the needy in the community.
In the New Testament, Jesus did not explicitly command his followers to tithe, but he did affirm the importance of generosity and giving to those in need. However, there is an interesting passage in the book of Hebrews that connects Jesus to the practice of tithing.
In Hebrews 7:1-10, the writer presents the figure of Melchizedek, a mysterious priest-king who blessed Abraham and received tithes from him. The writer then draws a comparison between Melchizedek and Jesus, presenting Jesus as a priest in the order of Melchizedek, a higher and more superior priesthood than that of the Levites.
The key verse in this passage is Hebrews 7:8, which says, “In the one case, the tenth is collected by people who die; but in the other case, by him who is declared to be living.” This verse suggests that Jesus, as the eternal and living High Priest in the order of Melchizedek, is the ultimate recipient of tithes.
Based on this understanding, some Christians believe that tithing is still relevant today as a way to honour Jesus as our High Priest and to support the work of the church. Others may argue that tithing is not explicitly commanded in the New Testament and that giving should be done willingly and cheerfully, without the legalistic requirement of a specific percentage.
Notably, the issue of tithing is a complex and debated topic among Christians. While there is biblical support for the practice, ultimately, each individual believer must prayerfully consider how they are called to give and support the work of the church and those in need.
In Matthew 23:23, Jesus confronts the religious leaders of His time for their distorted interpretation and application of the Law, particularly in their approach to tithing. Jesus acknowledges the importance of tithing, affirming its significance as a practice that reflects the reverence owed to God. However, He admonishes the scribes, Pharisees, and hypocrites for their misguided emphasis on tithing while neglecting the deeper moral imperatives of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. This rebuke underscores the fundamental purpose of tithing as a spiritual discipline that extends beyond mere outward observance to encompass a heart posture of obedience and devotion to God. Furthermore, the mention of Melchizedek in connection to Abraham’s tithe in the New Testament serves to highlight the continuity and fulfilment of God’s redemptive plan through Christ, who is ultimately the true recipient of our tithes and offerings. By juxtaposing these Scriptural insights, we gain a deeper understanding of the theological significance of tithing and its enduring relevance in the life of believers as a tangible expression of our gratitude and trust in God.
As a Pastor, I can see an interesting point about the significance of the mention of Melchizedek and tithing in the New Testament. Indeed, Melchizedek’s connection to Abraham and the tithe he received from him is a key aspect of his role in the biblical narrative. Without this reference, the comparison between Jesus and Melchizedek in the Book of Hebrews may not have the same depth of meaning and significance.
In Matthew 23:23, Jesus does indeed mention tithing in a rebuke to the religious leaders of his time. He criticizes the Pharisees and scribes for their legalistic and hypocritical approach to tithing, emphasizing that they should not neglect the more important aspects of the law such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Jesus affirms the practice of tithing but condemns the self-righteous attitude of those who use it as a way to show off their piety while neglecting the heart of God’s commands.
This passage serves as a reminder that our giving should be motivated by love for God and others rather than strict adherence to a rule or requirement. Tithing, like all forms of giving, should flow from a heart of gratitude and generosity, recognizing that everything we have ultimately belongs to God.
In light of these teachings, Christians today may choose to interpret tithing in different ways. Some may see tithing as a way to honour God and support the church and ministry work, while others may prioritize cheerful, sacrificial giving without a specific focus on a percentage. Ultimately, the key is to give with a spirit of love and obedience, seeking to reflect God’s generosity and care for others in all we do.
From Matthew 23:23, it is evident that those who truly embody the principles of justice, mercy, and faithfulness, which are the weightier aspects of the Law, will naturally be faithful in their practice of tithing without succumbing to a legalistic mindset. Jesus’s teachings highlight the interconnectedness of genuine worship and ethical living, emphasizing that outward religious acts must be rooted in a heart transformed by love and obedience to God. Therefore, for believers who prioritize mercy, justice, and faithfulness, tithing becomes a natural expression of their commitment to honouring God and serving others rather than a rigid obligation dictated by rules and regulations. This holistic understanding of tithing as a spiritual discipline intertwined with moral virtue underscores the transformative power of aligning our actions with the core values of God’s kingdom, fostering a lifestyle of generosity, compassion, and integrity that reflects the heart of Christ.
Yes, that is a valid perspective. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus emphasizes the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness, referring to them as the “weightier matters of the law.” These qualities are essential aspects of living out the principles of the Kingdom of God. When believers truly embody these values in their lives, they naturally overflow in acts of generosity, including tithing, without it being a legalistic obligation.
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Tithing, when done with the right heart attitude of love, obedience, and a desire to support the work of God’s kingdom, becomes a natural outflow of a life characterized by justice, mercy, and faithfulness. It is not about fulfilling a legal requirement but about expressing gratitude and trust in God’s provision and acknowledging His ownership of all things.
When believers prioritize justice, mercy, and faithfulness in their lives, their giving, including tithing, becomes a joyful and meaningful expression of their faith. It is a way to participate in God’s work on earth, supporting the needs of the church and those in the community, and demonstrating a commitment to living out the values of the Kingdom.
Ultimately, tithing should be seen as a spiritual discipline and a reflection of a believer’s commitment to God and His kingdom rather than a mere obligation. When approached with the right heart attitude, tithing becomes a natural part of a believer’s life of faith and obedience.
Also, in Matthew 23:23, Jesus’s perspective on tithing is significant. While tithing is not explicitly listed as one of the Ten Commandments, it is acknowledged as a practice within the Law. However, Jesus emphasizes that tithing should not overshadow the fundamental principles of justice, mercy, and faithfulness, which hold greater importance in the eyes of God. By distinguishing between the requirements of the Law and the weightier matters of ethical living, Jesus underscores the need for believers to prioritize the relational aspects of their faith over mere observance of religious rituals. This distinction challenges followers to engage with tithing and all religious practices in a spirit of humility, integrity, and genuine devotion, recognizing that true righteousness is manifested through a balance of external observances and internal transformation aligned with the values of God’s kingdom.
Yes, that is a significant point to consider. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus makes a distinction between the weightier matters of the law, such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness, and the practice of tithing. While tithing was a part of the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites, it is not included in the Ten Commandments, which are considered foundational and highly important in the Jewish and Christian faiths.
By emphasizing the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness over tithing, Jesus highlights the heart of God’s desires for His people. These qualities reflect God’s character and the essence of His kingdom, emphasizing relationships, love, and compassion. While tithing was a prescribed practice in the Old Testament for supporting the work of the temple and caring for the Levites, Jesus stresses that the weightier matters of the law involve how one treats others and lives out the principles of love and righteousness.
This distinction serves to remind believers that external practices, such as tithing, should flow from a heart transformed by love and obedience to God. While tithing can be a valuable way to support the work of the church and demonstrate stewardship of God’s resources, it should not overshadow the greater importance of acting justly, showing mercy, and walking faithfully with God and others.
In this sense, Jesus’s teachings in Matthew 23:23 invite believers to prioritize the foundational principles of the Kingdom of God, recognizing that while tithing is significant, it should not take precedence over the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness in the Christian life.
Undoubtedly, a direct justification for tithing includes acknowledging that Jesus is the ultimate recipient of the tithe, and He did not abolish the practice. There is a bit of essential recap here:
In Matthew 23:23, Jesus affirms the importance of tithing while emphasizing the weightier matters of the law such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness. This shows that tithing is recognized by Jesus as a valid practice within the law.
Hebrews 7:8 further supports the concept of tithing by stating, “In the one case, the tenth is collected by people who die; but in the other case, by Him who is declared to be living.” This verse refers to Jesus as the one who collects the tithe, indicating His status as the ultimate recipient of the tithe.
Additionally, Malachi 3:10 in the Old Testament instructs believers to bring their tithes into the storehouse, with the promise of blessings for those who are faithful in their tithing. This shows the continuity of the practice of tithing as a means of honoring God and supporting His work.
Therefore, from these scriptures, we can see that tithing is not abolished but rather endorsed by Jesus and supported throughout the Bible, with Jesus being identified as the ultimate recipient of the tithe.
In conclusion, the examination of scriptures from the Gospels, Hebrews, and the Old Testament reveals a consistent message regarding tithing. Jesus, as the ultimate recipient of the tithe, did not abolish the practice but rather affirmed its importance within the framework of the law. The act of tithing is not only a means of supporting the work of God but also a way to demonstrate faithfulness and obedience. As believers, we are called to honour God with our resources and trust in His promises of blessings for those who are faithful in their giving. May we continue to uphold the practice of tithing with sincerity and reverence, knowing that it is a tangible expression of our love and devotion to the One who provides all things.
•Prof Ademola, a pastor, writes from the United States
