TITHES & OFFERINGS — WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY SAY? - Voice of Africa Broadcast & Media Production
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TITHES & OFFERINGS — WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY SAY?

Few topics spark as much debate in churches today as tithes and offerings. For some believers, giving ten percent of income is a sacred, non-negotiable command. For others, it is a misunderstood practice rooted more in tradition than in New Testament teaching. So what does the Bible really say?

The Origin of Tithing

The concept of tithing predates the Law of Moses. In Genesis 14:18–20, Abraham gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the priest of God Most High. Later, in Genesis 28:22, Jacob vowed to give God a tenth of all he received. These early examples, however, were voluntary acts, not commandments.

Under the Mosaic Law, tithing became formalized. Israelites were instructed to give a tenth of their produce and livestock to support the Levites, who had no inheritance of land (Numbers 18:21). Additional tithes were also required for religious festivals and care for the poor, meaning Israel’s total giving was often more than ten percent (Deuteronomy 14:22–29).

Tithing in the Old Testament

Perhaps the most quoted passage on tithing is Malachi 3:8–10, where God accuses Israel of “robbing” Him by withholding tithes and offerings, promising blessings for obedience. Importantly, this rebuke was directed at a nation under the Law, with a temple system and Levitical priesthood.

What About the New Testament?

In the New Testament, Jesus mentions tithing when speaking to the Pharisees, acknowledging their practice but criticizing them for neglecting justice, mercy, and faith (Matthew 23:23). Notably, Jesus spoke while the Law was still in effect, before His death and resurrection.

After the resurrection, the New Testament does not command believers to tithe. Instead, it emphasizes generous, willing, and cheerful giving. The Apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:6–7 that each person should give “what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving is presented as an act of grace, not obligation.

Offerings and the Heart of Giving

Offerings, both in the Old and New Testaments, reflect worship and gratitude. From the widow who gave two small coins (Mark 12:41–44) to the early church sharing resources so none lacked (Acts 4:32–35), the focus is consistently on the heart, not the amount.

So, What Does the Bible Really Say?

The Bible teaches that:

The Bottom Line

Tithes and offerings are not merely financial transactions; they are spiritual expressions. While the Bible does not impose a mandatory ten percent on New Testament believers, it does call for a life of generosity, stewardship, and trust in God. Ultimately, the question is not “How much must I give?” but “How is my heart responding to God’s grace?”

This ongoing conversation challenges believers to move beyond rules and into a deeper understanding of worship, faith, and responsibility.