The Truth Of The Tithe (Part 1: In The Old Testament)9 min read

The Truth of the Tithe with a 10% Value and a Question Mark

     Let us first start with what this two-part series of articles is not about. This series is not about giving license to Christians to not give at all. It is also not about convincing Christians to give less or to be cheap with God. And lastly, this series is not about excusing the hard heart reluctant to give abundantly and sacrificially. In this first article, we will first present what a biblical model of giving should look like for New Testament Christians today. Then we will define and explain what the O.T. tithes and offerings were, while presenting the case for why teaching that Christians are required to tithe from their income misses the mark in terms of rightfully dividing the Word of Truth, and is not beneficial to the Church.

     So, to begin, we want to ask a few pressing questions: Is tithing a requirement for New Testament Christians, or was it only for the Old Testament times? If you don't tithe, are you sinning before God? How do you know if you're giving enough? Can you "tithe" other things, such as your time? What exactly is the tithe, and does it differ from offerings? Should pastors and lay-leaders know how much you give? These questions—all related to stewardship—and many more will be answered below.

     It is our hope that our lengthy and extensive treatment of this subject will be beneficial and edifying to you, and that it gives you a better understanding of the matter. There is much to say about tithing, but in this series we present what we believe is a good foundation for those wanting to continue to learn about stewardship and giving in the Christian context, and under the New Covenant. Some of the information presented herein is taken from Dr. David Croteau's book "Tithing After The Cross." We start below with a general guideline of what our giving should look like for Christians today:

 

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One thought on “The Truth Of The Tithe (Part 1: In The Old Testament)

  1. 1 Corinthians 913-14
    Don’t you know that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and that those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? 14 In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.

    While some of your points are valid the premise of your discussion is to deter others from feeling obligated to tithe. While you may feel deeply about this issue, do you believe you are helping the Church or creating a doorway to encourage others to sin. When we do not tithe , we fall into the belief that led even Cain astray, and that is that our blessings are because of us. You aren’t the first person to feel uncomfortable with the tithe and you won’t be the last , the reason is the love of money will always compete with the love of God. In retrospect what is 10 percent ? Is it a lot ? Was it a lot for the widow to tithe all she had? The tithe will always be more of an act of faith than anything else… but it is interesting though that the scripture states it is impossible to please God without faith, and it was Ables offering to God that was received and Cain that was rejected – while you stipulate on the percentage , dont stipulate on being faithful with the little that you have- also while your at it encourage others to be faithful to the little (10 percent ) they have as well. Have nothing but love for you – just think though how this discussion is helping people trust the Church or encouraging others to tithe . If people stopped tithing tomorrow both you and
    I would have a hard time supporting our families. .

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