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Dutch What does the Bible teach about tithing?
The Bible speaks of tithing primarily in the Old Testament as part of the Mosaic law given to ancient Israel. The practice involved giving one-tenth of one’s agricultural produce or income to support the Levites, who served as priests, and to care for the poor and needy. We see this outlined in passages such as Leviticus 27:30-32 and Deuteronomy 14:22-29 (Blegur et al., 2022; Crossley, 2010).
The prophet Malachi famously exhorted the people to bring “the whole tithe into the storehouse” (Malachi 3:10), promising God’s blessings in return. This passage is often cited in discussions of tithing today. But we must be careful not to take such teachings out of their historical and covenantal context.
In the New Testament, Jesus mentions tithing only a few times, and not as a command for his followers. Rather, he critiques those who tithe meticulously but neglect weightier matters of justice and mercy (Matthew 23:23). The early church, as we see in Acts and the epistles, does not appear to practice tithing as a formal requirement (Blegur et al., 2022).
This does not mean, But that the principle of giving generously is absent from the New Testament. On the contrary, we see a radical generosity emerging among the first Christians, who shared their possessions freely to meet one another’s needs (Acts 2:44-45, 4:32-35). The apostle Paul encourages believers to give cheerfully and according to their means (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
So while the specific practice of tithing is not mandated for Christians in the New Testament, the underlying principles of generosity, stewardship, and care for others remain central to the Christian life. We are called to be generous with all that God has entrusted to us, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from Him.
Are Christians required to give 10% of their income to the church?
My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, this question touches on an issue that has been much debated among Christians. While the practice of tithing 10% was prescribed in the Old Testament law, we must carefully consider whether this specific requirement carries over into the New Covenant established by Jesus Christ (Blegur et al., 2022; Crossley, 2010).
It is true that some Christian traditions have maintained the tithe as a standard for giving. They see it as a biblical principle that provides helpful guidance for believers. But we must be cautious about imposing legalistic requirements that are not explicitly commanded in the New Testament.
The apostle Paul, in his teachings on giving, does not mention a specific percentage. Instead, he encourages believers to give generously and cheerfully, “each one as he has decided in his heart” (2 Corinthians 9:7). This suggests a more flexible approach, based on individual circumstances and led by the Holy Spirit (Blegur et al., 2022).
At the same time, we should not use this freedom as an excuse for stinginess. The early Christians often gave far more than 10%, selling possessions to meet the needs of others (Acts 4:32-35). Jesus himself praised the poor widow who gave all she had (Mark 12:41-44). These examples challenge us to consider whether 10% should be seen as a maximum rather than a minimum.
Perhaps, we might view the tithe not as a rigid rule, but as a helpful starting point for prayerful consideration. For some, giving 10% may be a major step of faith. For others, especially those blessed with abundance, the Lord may call them to give much more.
What matters most is not the exact percentage, but the heart attitude behind our giving. Are we trusting God as our provider? Are we growing in generosity? Are we using our resources to bless others and advance God’s kingdom?
Let us also remember that financial contributions are not the only way to give. We are called to offer our whole selves to God – our time, talents, and treasures. Some may be able to give more financially, while others may serve in other capacious ways.
What principles does the New Testament provide for financial giving?
While the New Testament does not prescribe a specific percentage for giving, it does offer us rich guidance on the spirit and practice of Christian generosity. Let us reflect on some of these principles that can shape our approach to financial stewardship.
We see that giving should flow from a heart transformed by God’s grace. The apostle Paul, in praising the Macedonian churches, notes that they first gave themselves to the Lord (2 Corinthians 8:5). This reminds us that our giving is an extension of our devotion to Christ (Carr, 2014).
Secondly, the New Testament emphasizes cheerful and voluntary giving. Paul writes, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Our offerings should not be motivated by guilt or external pressure, but by joy and gratitude for God’s blessings (Blegur et al., 2022; Carr, 2014).
Another important principle is proportional giving. Paul encourages believers to set aside a sum “in keeping with your income” (1 Corinthians 16:2). This suggests that those who have more should give more, while recognizing that even small gifts from those with little are precious in God’s sight, as Jesus affirmed with the widow’s mite (Luke 21:1-4) (Carr, 2014).
The New Testament also highlights the importance of giving sacrificially. We see this exemplified in the early church, where believers sold possessions to meet others’ needs (Acts 4:32-35). While not everyone is called to such extreme measures, we are all challenged to give in ways that stretch our faith and demonstrate our trust in God’s provision.
We are encouraged to give regularly and systematically. Paul advises the Corinthians to set aside money “on the first day of every week” (1 Corinthians 16:2). This helps us to be intentional and consistent in our giving, rather than leaving it to impulse or convenience.
Lastly, the New Testament emphasizes that our giving should be motivated by love and concern for others. Whether supporting those in need, contributing to the work of the church, or participating in the spread of the Gospel, our financial gifts are a tangible expression of Christ’s love flowing through us.
How does Jesus address giving in his teachings?
Our Lord Jesus Christ, in His infinite wisdom and compassion, spoke often about the use of material possessions and the attitude of the heart towards giving. His teachings on this subject are powerful and challenging, calling us to a radical reorientation of our priorities and values.
We must recognize that Jesus places giving within the broader context of our relationship with God and our eternal destiny. He warns us against storing up treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and instead encourages us to store up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). This teaching reminds us that our giving has eternal significance and should be motivated by our love for God rather than earthly gain (Carr, 2014).
Jesus also emphasizes the importance of our inner disposition when giving. In the Sermon on the Mount, He cautions against giving to be seen by others, instructing us instead to give in secret, knowing that our heavenly Father sees and rewards such sincere generosity (Matthew 6:1-4). This teaches us that the value of our gifts lies not in their public recognition, but in the purity of our intentions before God.
Our Lord’s teachings often highlight the connection between our use of money and the condition of our hearts. He tells us that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). This powerful insight invites us to examine our giving as a reflection of our deepest values and commitments.
Jesus also challenges us to give sacrificially and to trust in God’s provision. We see this beautifully illustrated in His commendation of the poor widow who gave all she had to live on (Mark 12:41-44). This story reminds us that God looks not at the amount we give, but at the cost to ourselves and the faith demonstrated in our giving.
Christ’s teachings often link giving with care for the poor and marginalized. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and His description of the final judgment (Matthew 25:31-46), Jesus makes it clear that our treatment of those in need is intimately connected to our love for Him.
Importantly, Jesus teaches that true generosity involves more than just our money. When He calls the rich young ruler to sell all he has and give to the poor (Mark 10:17-27), He is inviting the man to a complete reorientation of his life, placing trust in God above material security.
What examples of giving do we see in the early church in Acts?
The book of Acts provides us with a vivid and inspiring picture of the early Christian community, one in which generosity and mutual care were hallmarks of their shared life in Christ. As we examine these examples, let us consider how they might challenge and encourage us in our own practice of giving today.
Perhaps the most striking example we encounter is the radical sharing described in Acts 2:44-45 and 4:32-35. We read that believers were of “one heart and soul” and that “no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common.” Some even sold property and possessions, bringing the proceeds to the apostles for distribution to those in need (Blegur et al., 2022; Carr, 2014).
This extraordinary level of generosity flowed from their deep faith and unity in Christ. It was not imposed as a rule, but arose spontaneously from hearts transformed by the Gospel and filled with the Holy Spirit. While this specific practice may not be directly applicable in all contexts today, it challenges us to consider how we might more fully embody the spirit of sacrificial love and shared responsibility within our faith communities.
We also see examples of giving to support the work of ministry and mission. In Acts 4:36-37, we learn of Barnabas, who sold a field and brought the money to the apostles. This act of generosity likely helped to support the growing community and its evangelistic efforts. It reminds us of the importance of contributing to the work of the church and the spread of the Gospel.
The early church also demonstrated a concern for believers in need beyond their immediate community. In Acts 11:27-30, we read of the church in Antioch sending relief to the believers in Judea during a time of famine. This example encourages us to look beyond our local context and consider how we might support our brothers and sisters in Christ facing hardship in other parts of the world.
This culture of generosity was not without its challenges. The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of integrity and honesty in our giving. Their deception was not about the amount they gave, but about their pretense of giving more than they actually did. This teaches us that God is concerned not just with our outward actions, but with the truthfulness of our hearts.
We also see the early church organizing its giving to ensure equitable distribution. The appointment of the seven in Acts 6:1-7 to oversee the daily distribution to widows shows a concern for fairness and good stewardship of resources. This can guide us in developing transparent and accountable systems for managing and distributing funds within our churches today.
As we reflect on these examples from the early church, let us be inspired by their generosity, their care for one another, and their commitment to the mission of Christ. May we, too, seek to cultivate communities marked by sacrificial love, mutual support, and a willingness to share all that God has entrusted to us for the building up of His kingdom.
How does Paul instruct believers to give in his letters?
The Apostle Paul provides rich guidance on giving throughout his letters, always rooting his instructions in the grace and love of Christ. At the heart of Paul’s teaching is the call to give generously, joyfully, and sacrificially as an expression of faith and love for God and neighbor.
In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul devotes major attention to the practice of giving. He encourages believers to give willingly according to their means, reminding them that “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7)(Houghton, 2019). Paul emphasizes that our giving should flow from gratitude for God’s abundant blessings, not from compulsion or guilt. He assures the Corinthians that God will provide for their needs as they give generously to others.
Paul also instructs believers to give regularly and systematically. In 1 Corinthians 16:2, he advises setting aside a portion of income on the first day of each week(Gonzalo Haya-Prats, Empowered Believers: The Holy Spirit in the Book of Acts, Ed., Paul Elbert, Trans. Scott A. Ellington (Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, 2011). Xxv + 289 Pp., $35.00, Paper., n.d.). This practice of regular, intentional giving helps cultivate a habit of generosity and ensures resources are available to meet needs as they arise.
Importantly, Paul teaches that giving is not just about money, but about offering ourselves fully to God and to one another in love. He commends the Macedonian churches who “gave themselves first of all to the Lord” (2 Corinthians 8:5) before giving financially beyond their means. This reminds us that true generosity flows from a heart surrendered to Christ.
Paul also emphasizes the importance of integrity and accountability in handling gifts. He takes great care to avoid any suspicion in the administration of the collection for Jerusalem, arranging for trusted representatives to accompany the gift (2 Corinthians 8:16-24). This teaches us the importance of wise stewardship and transparency in our giving practices.
Above all, Paul grounds his teaching on giving in the supreme example of Christ, “who though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). As we contemplate Christ’s self-giving love, may we be inspired to give of ourselves generously for the good of others and the glory of God.
What does the Bible say about the attitude and motivation for giving?
The Scriptures speak to us with great wisdom about the heart attitudes that should motivate our giving. At the very center is love – love for God and love for our neighbor. All true giving flows from this wellspring of divine and human love.
The Bible teaches us that our giving should be marked by joy and gratitude. As we reflect on God’s boundless generosity toward us, how can our hearts not overflow with thankfulness? The Apostle Paul reminds us that “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7)(Houghton, 2019). Our giving is to be a glad response to God’s grace, not a burdensome obligation. When we give with joy, we participate in the very nature of our generous God.
The Scriptures also emphasize that our giving should be voluntary and from the heart. In Exodus 25:2, the Lord instructs Moses to receive contributions for the tabernacle from “everyone whose heart prompts them to give”(Proskurina, 2024). God desires not just our resources, but the freely given devotion of our hearts. Forced or reluctant giving does not honor the Lord or bless the giver.
Humility is another crucial attitude in biblical giving. Jesus commends the poor widow who gives her small coins, noting that she has given more than the wealthy who gave large sums from their abundance (Mark 12:41-44). This teaches us that God looks not at the amount we give, but at the sacrifice and devotion behind the gift. We give humbly, recognizing that all we have comes from God’s hand.
The Bible also speaks of giving as an act of worship and trust in God. When we give, we declare that God, not money, is our true source of security and joy. We trust in His promise to provide for our needs as we seek first His kingdom (Matthew 6:33). Our giving becomes a tangible expression of faith.
Finally, Scripture teaches that love for others should motivate our giving. John the Baptist exhorts those with two tunics to share with those who have none (Luke 3:11). The early church shared their possessions so that no one among them was in need (Acts 4:32-35). This radical generosity flowed from hearts transformed by Christ’s love.
As we reflect on these biblical teachings, may the Holy Spirit shape our attitudes toward giving. Let us give joyfully, humbly, and sacrificially, trusting in God’s provision and motivated by love for Him and for our brothers and sisters in need.
Are there promises or blessings associated with giving in Scripture?
The Scriptures speak of blessings associated with generous giving. But we must approach this topic with spiritual wisdom, recognizing that God’s blessings often come in unexpected forms and that our primary motivation for giving should always be love for God and neighbor, not personal gain.
That being said, the Bible does contain promises related to giving. In Malachi 3:10, the Lord challenges His people to bring the full tithe and declares, “Test me in this… and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” This powerful promise reminds us of God’s faithfulness to provide for those who honor Him with their resources.
In the New Testament, Jesus teaches, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap” (Luke 6:38). This speaks not just of material blessings, but of the abundant life that flows from a generous heart aligned with God’s purposes.
The Apostle Paul assures the Corinthians that God is able to bless them abundantly, “so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8)(Houghton, 2019). This promise emphasizes God’s provision for our needs and His empowerment for continued generosity and service.
Scripture also speaks of spiritual blessings associated with giving. Proverbs 11:25 declares, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This points to the deep joy and spiritual renewal that come from selfless giving. Similarly, Acts 20:35 records Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” highlighting the powerful spiritual fulfillment found in generosity.
We must remember, But that God’s blessings are not always material or immediate. The greatest blessing of giving is drawing closer to the heart of our generous God and participating in His work of love in the world. As we give, we grow in faith, compassion, and Christlikeness – surely the most precious blessings of all.
How does the Bible address giving beyond just money (time, talents, etc.)?
The Scriptures paint a beautiful and holistic picture of giving that extends far beyond financial contributions. While monetary giving is important, God calls us to offer our whole selves – our time, talents, skills, and very lives – in loving service to Him and to our neighbors.
The Apostle Paul speaks powerfully of this comprehensive view of giving in Romans 12:1, urging believers to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship.” This total self-giving is the foundation of Christian stewardship. We are called to place all that we are and all that we have at God’s disposal for His purposes.
Throughout the Bible, we see examples of people giving their time and talents in service to God and others. In Exodus, skilled artisans offer their abilities to construct the tabernacle (Exodus 35:30-35). In the New Testament, we read of believers using their homes for hospitality and gatherings (Acts 2:46, Romans 16:5). These examples remind us that our skills, abilities, and resources are gifts from God to be used for His glory and the good of others.
The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 teaches us about the importance of faithfully using and developing the gifts God has entrusted to us. Whether we have been given much or little, God calls us to invest our talents wisely for His kingdom. This applies not just to money, but to all our abilities and resources.
In 1 Peter 4:10-11, we are instructed: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” This reminds us that all our gifts – whether in speaking, serving, organizing, creating, or any other area – are to be used in loving service to others.
The early church in Acts provides a powerful model of holistic giving. We read that believers shared their possessions, opened their homes, cared for the needy, and devoted themselves to prayer and teaching (Acts 2:42-47, 4:32-35). This radical generosity with their time, resources, and lives flowed from hearts transformed by Christ’s love.
As we reflect on these teachings, let us ask the Holy Spirit to show us how we can offer our time, talents, and whole selves more fully in service to God and others. May we grow in generosity in every area of life, becoming living reflections of God’s abundant love for the world.
What does the Bible teach about stewardship and managing God’s resources?
The Bible offers powerful wisdom on stewardship, teaching us that all we have ultimately belongs to God and is entrusted to us for His purposes. This understanding transforms how we view and manage the resources in our care.
The foundational principle of biblical stewardship is found in Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” This reminds us that we are not owners, but managers of God’s resources. Our role is to faithfully administer what God has entrusted to us, using it in ways that honor Him and serve others.
Jesus teaches extensively on stewardship through parables. In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), we learn that God expects us to wisely invest and multiply the resources He gives us, whether they are many or few. The parable of the shrewd manager (Luke 16:1-13) encourages us to use worldly wealth wisely for eternal purposes. These teachings remind us that we will one day give an account for how we have managed God’s resources.
The Bible also emphasizes the importance of contentment and avoiding the love of money. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:6-10 that “godliness with contentment is great gain” and warns against the dangers of pursuing wealth as an end in itself. Instead, we are called to be rich in good deeds, generous and willing to share (1 Timothy 6:18).
Wise stewardship involves careful planning and budgeting. Proverbs 21:5 tells us, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” This encourages us to be thoughtful and intentional in managing our resources, rather than spending impulsively.
At the same time, biblical stewardship requires trust in God’s provision. Jesus teaches us not to worry about our material needs, but to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). This balanced approach combines responsible management with faith in God’s care.
The Bible also speaks to the importance of generosity in stewardship. Proverbs 11:24-25 paradoxically states, “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This reminds us that true prosperity comes not from hoarding, but from open-handed generosity.
