Tithing has long been a topic of discussion and debate within Christian circles. The central question often revolves around whether tithing is solely an Old Testament command or if it carries over as a New Testament principle. Let’s delve into this issue by examining the biblical basis for tithing and its application for believers today.
The Old Testament Foundation
The concept of tithing originates in the Old Testament. Genesis 14:20 records Abram giving Melchizedek, king of Salem, "tithes of all." This act of giving a tenth predates the Mosaic Law and shows an early recognition of giving to God. Some scholars suggest that tithing was a common practice in the ancient Near East as a way to honor deities or rulers. Abraham’s act of tithing to Melchizedek, a priest of the Most High God, reflects his acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and blessing over his victory in battle. This spontaneous act of giving a tenth signifies Abraham’s gratitude and recognition of divine provision.
Later, after Abraham, we see tithing codified in the Mosaic Law. Leviticus 27:30 states, "And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s: it is holy unto the Lord." The Israelites were commanded to bring a tenth of their produce and livestock to support the Levitical priesthood and the community's religious activities (Numbers 18:21-24, Deuteronomy 14:22-29).
In addition to tithes, the Old Testament also differentiates between tithes and offerings. Tithes, under the Mosaic Law, were the mandated tenth of one's produce or livestock dedicated to God, as seen in Leviticus 27:30. Offerings, on the other hand, were both mandatory and/or voluntary, depending upon the type. Offerings included sacrifices, freewill offerings, and contributions for specific purposes such as building the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:1-7). The distinction between offerings lies in the purpose and context: some offerings were mandatory to maintain covenantal obligations and atonement, while others were expressions of personal devotion or gratitude.
The Transition to the New Testament
The New Testament does not explicitly command Christians to tithe, but the implications are that they should. The New Testament focuses on the principle of generosity in giving and supporting ministry. This shift reflects a movement from the tithe as a legal Mosaic requirement to a more voluntary and heartfelt approach to giving. Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing in Matthew 23:23, but He emphasizes that the tithe, although not to be overlooked, should not overshadow greater moral responsibilities.
In this context, some interpret the act of "paying" tithes as fulfilling a legal obligation (which some preachers will use as a motivation to "force" the tithe - and others will use as an argument against the tithe), whereas "giving" an offering is seen as a voluntary, heartfelt act of worship. This distinction is, in reality, unnecessary, but it does underscore the New Testament’s emphasis on the spirit of generosity rather than legal adherence to a mandated percentage.
The Apostle Paul provides further insight into giving in the New Testament context. In 1 Corinthians 9:13-14, Paul references the support of those who minister in holy things, stating, "Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel." Paul’s use of "even so" connects the support of gospel ministers to the principle of the tithe, suggesting continuity in the practice of supporting ministry.
Why Wasn't the Old Testament Tithe Money?
The Old Testament tithe was primarily agricultural because the economy of ancient Israel was agrarian. Wealth was measured in crops, livestock, and produce, which formed the basis of trade and sustenance. Leviticus 27:30 speaks of tithing "the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree," emphasizing agricultural products.
Monetary tithes were not the norm, but there were provisions for converting tithes to money under certain circumstances. Deuteronomy 14:24-26 allows those who lived far from the place of worship to convert their tithes into money, which could then be used to purchase goods for worship and celebration.
When Did Tithing Become Associated with Money?
As societies evolved from agrarian economies to more diversified ones, currency became a common medium of exchange. This shift made monetary tithing more practical. By the New Testament era and beyond, as economies became more complex, tithing in monetary form became prevalent, allowing believers to support the church and its ministries in a more flexible and universally applicable manner.
Historical Examples of Tithing in the Early Church
In the early church period, tithing continued as a practice among Christians. For instance, the Didache, a first-century Christian document, instructs believers to give their firstfruits to the prophets and teachers, stating, "You shall give, as the commandment says, the firstfruits of your dough, winepress, threshing floor, oxen, and sheep, to the prophets, for they are your high priests," which reflects an ongoing tradition of supporting religious leaders.
By the post-apostolic period, church fathers like Irenaeus and Tertullian mentioned the importance of supporting the church through giving. Irenaeus, in his writings, emphasized that Christians should offer to the church willingly. He wrote, "The oblation of the Church, which the Lord gave instructions to be offered throughout all the world, is accounted with God a pure sacrifice, and is acceptable to Him," not out of compulsion, but as a reflection of gratitude to God. Tertullian noted that early Christians contributed to a common fund, explaining, "Though we have our treasure-chest, it is not made up of purchase money, as of a religion that has its price. On the monthly day, if he likes, each puts in a small donation; but only if it be his pleasure, and only if he be able: for there is no compulsion; all is voluntary," to support the needy, widows, and orphans, as well as to provide for the expenses of the church.
By the fourth century, the Council of Tours (A Catholic Council) in 567 AD formally recognized tithing as a requirement for Christians, suggesting there was some debate or inconsistency in its practice. The council's statement aimed to standardize the practice and address any existing controversies, ensuring that tithing was upheld as a regular part of Christian life.
The Principle of Generosity
While the New Testament does not explicitly mandate tithing (hence the confusion on this matter), it implicitly implies it and encourages a spirit of giving and generosity in support of the ministry and the Lord's work. The early church exemplified this generous giving heart through their communal sharing and support for one another (Acts 2:44-45, Acts 4:32-35) at a very difficult time. The principle of generosity focuses on the believer's heart and willingness to support God's work. I can still remember, in my first church, an elderly lady who had very little money. She would always try to bless her pastor when she could. At times, she would bring a tomato, an onion, or some other vegetable/food and give it to me. She had such a generous and simple heart.
Application for Today
For modern Christians, the question of tithing often comes down to personal conviction and understanding of Scripture. Some believers view tithing as a continued practice reflecting obedience and gratitude to God, while others see it as an Old Testament command fulfilled in Christ and replaced by the New Testament call to generous giving.
However, it is essential to recognize that the tithe's practice, mentioned and affirmed before, during, and after the Mosaic Law, serves as a timeless principle for many. As Jesus stated in Matthew 23:23, while addressing the Pharisees, "These ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone." This implies a continuity of the principle of tithing even in the New Testament era. Remember, Paul's endorsement of supporting ministers in 1 Corinthians 9 further encourages this notion.
Ultimately, believers must recognize that giving is not optional. Whether one tithes or gives in another way, the key is the attitude of the heart in our giving. One must never give grudgingly or with pride! Giving should be an act of worship and a demonstration of trust in God’s provision. As Paul advises in 1 Timothy 6:17-19, believers are encouraged to be rich in good works, willing to share, and laying up treasures in heaven.
The tithe, mentioned and practiced before, during, and after the Mosaic Law, served a specific purpose for Israel, but it also serves as guidance for us today. Each believer must prayerfully consider how God is leading them to give. Whether through tithing or other forms of generous support, the goal remains the same: honoring God and supporting/furthering the ministry of His kingdom.
The Tithe: An Old Testament Command or a New Testament Principle? How about both?
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