“Scriptures about tithing provide guidance on the biblical principles of giving, emphasizing generosity and faithfulness in stewardship.”

Tithing, or giving a portion of our income to God, is a key principle in biblical stewardship. The Bible outlines the importance of tithing and provides various scriptures to guide us in this practice.

This article explores key scriptures about tithing, offering insights into how we can faithfully honor God with our finances.

The Command to Tithe

Tithing is established as a command in the Bible, reflecting God’s expectations for our generosity.

Scripture: Malachi 3:10 – “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “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 verse underscores the importance of bringing the full tithe and the promise of God’s abundant blessings.

The Principle of First Fruits

Tithing involves offering the first portion of our income to God, reflecting our trust in His provision.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:9-10 – “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops. Then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”

This passage highlights the principle of giving the first and best to God, leading to His blessings.

Tithing as an Act of Worship

Tithing is not just a financial transaction but an act of worship and reverence towards God.

Scripture: Deuteronomy 14:23 – “Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.”

This verse emphasizes that tithing is meant to be an act of worship and reverence before God.

Tithing in the New Testament

While the New Testament doesn’t command tithing explicitly, it upholds the principles of generous and cheerful giving.

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

This passage encourages giving with a willing and joyful heart, reflecting the spirit of tithing.

The Role of Tithing in Supporting the Church

Tithing supports the ministry and operations of the church, enabling it to fulfill its mission.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 – “Don’t you know that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.”

This verse supports the practice of providing for those who serve in ministry through financial support.

Tithing as a Response to God’s Blessings

Our tithing is a response to the blessings and provision we have received from God.

Scripture: Deuteronomy 8:18 – “But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.”

This passage reminds us that our ability to earn wealth comes from God, and tithing is a response to His blessings.

The Blessings of Faithful Tithing

Faithful tithing leads to spiritual and material blessings, demonstrating God’s provision and faithfulness.

Scripture: Luke 6:38 – “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

This verse promises that generous giving will result in abundant blessings in return.

Scriptures About Provision: Trusting God for Your Needs

The Attitude of the Heart in Giving

Our attitude in giving is crucial; it should be motivated by love and devotion rather than obligation.

Scripture: Matthew 6:1-4 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. ‘So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others.

Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.’”

This passage teaches that giving should be done humbly and privately, focusing on God rather than seeking human praise.

The Call to Generosity Beyond Tithing

Generosity extends beyond tithing; it involves giving freely and abundantly in all aspects of our lives.

Scripture: Acts 20:35 – “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

This verse highlights the broader principle of generosity and the blessing of giving.

The Impact of Tithing on Personal Faith

Tithing can strengthen our faith and trust in God, teaching us reliance on His provision.

Scripture: Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

This passage reassures us that God will provide for our needs as we trust in Him through our giving.

The Biblical Basis for Tithing

Understanding the biblical basis for tithing helps us appreciate its significance and align our practices with God’s Word.

Scripture: Genesis 14:19-20 – “And he blessed Abram, saying, ‘Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.’ Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”

This early example of tithing by Abram (Abraham) establishes the practice as a response to God’s blessings.

The Relationship Between Tithing and Prosperity

Tithing is often associated with prosperity, reflecting the belief that God blesses those who are faithful in their giving.

Scripture: Proverbs 11:24-25 – “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 verse connects generosity with prosperity and blessings.

The Example of the Widow’s Mite

Jesus commended the widow who gave all she had, illustrating the principle of sacrificial giving.

Scripture: Mark 12:43-44 – “Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.’”

This passage shows that the value of a gift is not in its amount but in the sacrifice and heart behind it.

The Call to Support God’s Work

Tithing supports the work of the church and the advancement of God’s kingdom on earth.

Scripture: Galatians 6:6 – “Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.”

This verse encourages supporting those who teach and guide us in the faith.

Answers to Key Questions

1. What is the purpose of tithing?
Tithing is a way to honor God with our finances, support the church, and reflect our trust in His provision.

2. How much should I tithe?
The biblical standard is a tenth (10%) of your income, though the New Testament encourages generous giving beyond this.

3. Is tithing still required in the New Testament?
While not explicitly required, the principles of generous and cheerful giving are upheld in the New Testament.

4. What are the blessings of tithing?
Tithing is associated with spiritual and material blessings, as God promises to provide and bless those who give faithfully.

5. Can I tithe to causes outside the church?
Yes, tithing to various causes is acceptable, but it is important to support the local church as part of your giving.

6. How does tithing impact my faith?
Tithing can strengthen your faith and trust in God’s provision, teaching reliance on Him for all your needs.

Conclusion

Scriptures about tithing provide valuable insights into the principles of giving and stewardship. From the command to bring the full tithe to the New Testament teachings on generosity, these verses guide us in honoring God with our finances.

As we embrace these biblical principles, may we experience the blessings of faithful giving and deepen our trust in God’s provision.