Why Tithe?
The Bible is very clear that we are to honor God with our finances. Malachi 3:10 tells us that we are to bring a “tithe” from the first fruits of our labor into God’s house. A tithe is a word that literally means a “tenth part,” and “first fruits” means the first of a produce. This means that we are called to give God 10% from the first of what we make. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus Himself tells the Pharisees that they should not ignore tithing, but should also take additional steps toward loving others.When it comes down to it, tithing is between you and God alone. It is an aspect of your discipleship relationship with God wherein you show Him that you are not controlled by money and possessions. It is about your relationship with God and letting nothing sit in His place in your life. In addition to this, it is God’s plan to take care of His bride. The Bible tells us that the Church is the bride of Christ. While this certainly refers to the people of God and not a specific brick and mortar building. God chose to work through local churches and congregations throughout history to see His plans met. The tithe takes care of the work of the Church and each local church so that they can take care of the people of God and be a witness to the rest of the world.
What is the difference between
“tithing” and “offering”?
A tithe goes to God and is simply giving back to Him what He is due. We are not entitled to dictate where our tithe goes, as it is God’s in the first place. When we understand that God owns everything and we are merely stewards, this attitude comes into focus. However, the New Testament also mentions “offerings.” Offerings are giving above and beyond tithe that are earmarked for a specific use. You may send an offering above your tithe to Children’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, or Celebrate Recovery, for example, and those funds are placed only into those accounts for the purpose you have stated. Your offering should never replace your tithe, but can be a great way to support specific ministries in a more personal way.
