The Bible discusses the concept of tithing in several places, but it is necessary to differentiate between Old Testament laws and their relevance to New Testament Christian practices. Here’s an overview of biblical references about tithing and its interpretation:
### Old Testament Teaching on Tithing
1. **Abraham’s Tithe to Melchizedek**
– *Genesis 14:19-20*: Abraham gave a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, a priest of God Most High. This act is often seen as a precedent for tithing but was a voluntary act, not a command.
2. **The Mosaic Law on Tithing**
– *Leviticus 27:30*: “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.”
– *Numbers 18:21-24*: The tithe was designated for the Levites, who served as priests and had no inheritance of land among the Israelites.
– *Deuteronomy 14:22-29*: Israel was instructed to set aside a tithe for feasts, for the Levites, and, every three years, for the poor, widows, and orphans.
3. **Malachi’s Call to Faithfulness in Tithing**
– *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.”
### New Testament Perspective on Giving
Tithing as a legal mandate is not emphasized in the New Testament. Instead, the focus shifts to generosity, willing giving, and caring for others.
1. **Voluntary, Cheerful Giving**
– *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 verse highlights the importance of giving out of love and willingness rather than obligation.
2. **Support for Ministers of the Gospel**
– *1 Corinthians 9:13-14*: Paul teaches that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. While not explicitly mentioning a tithe, it implies supporting church leaders.
3. **Generosity and Care for the Poor**
– *Acts 4:32-35*: The early church shared their resources, ensuring that no one in the community was in need. This communal living reflects a spirit of generosity rather than strict tithing percentages.
4. **Jesus’ Mention of the Tithe**
– *Matthew 23:23*: Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for meticulously tithing herbs while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He says, “You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.” While He acknowledges tithing here, His emphasis is on the weightier matters of ethical living and justice.
### Conclusion
The Bible presents tithing in the Old Testament as an act of obedience and worship under the Mosaic Law. In the New Testament, the principle of generosity, sacrificial giving, and supporting the work of the church replaces the legal requirement of tithing. Christians are encouraged to give according to their ability and with a cheerful heart, prioritizing justice, mercy, and love.