Today we will talk about Tithing in the New Testament. Many Christians do not know what this means. Tithing is more than just giving money; it’s an act of worship, a way to acknowledge God’s provision in our lives. By giving 10% of our earnings, we reflect our gratitude and trust in God to take care of our needs. Not only does tithing help support the work of our churches and ministries, but it also creates a spirit of generosity in us. As we dive into the Scriptures, we will discover how tithing enhances our relationship with God and enriches our faith journey. Let’s keep our hearts open as we read through God’s Word!
Tithing in the New Testament
Faithfulness in Giving
Tithing in the New Testament calls us to be faithful in our giving. We often find ourselves needing to examine our hearts and habits when it comes to our financial contributions to God’s work. This can sometimes mean reevaluating how we approach our resources and ensuring we honor God with our first fruits. By practicing faithfulness in our giving, we recognize that everything we have comes from Him, and we demonstrate our commitment to support His kingdom. It serves as a powerful reminder that our trust in God grows when we take action by generously giving back what is rightfully His.
Matthew 6:21
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21
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.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
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.” – Luke 6:38
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
1 Corinthians 16:2
“On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.” – 1 Corinthians 16:2
The Blessings of Giving
When we think about tithing, it’s essential to remember the blessings that come with giving. God promises that as we give generously, we will experience His favor in ways that may surprise us. Tithing isn’t solely about the money we part with; it’s about the incredible blessings that flow into our lives. We can think of these blessings not just as financial prosperity but as peace, joy, and fulfillment in our spiritual journey. Giving enriches our lives, and it often results in a deepened relationship with God and others around us.
Luke 12:33-34
“Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide yourselves with money bags that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.” – Luke 12:33-34
2 Corinthians 9:8
“And God is able to bless you 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
Proverbs 11:25
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” – Proverbs 11:25
Acts 20:35
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Acts 20:35
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.” – Malachi 3:10
A Heart for the Church
Tithing plays an important role in our support for the church. When we give, we help sustain the ministry and outreach programs that make a difference in our community. Being involved in our church through tithing reflects our commitment to God and supports the spiritual nourishment of our fellow believers. As we engage in giving, we contribute directly to the work of the church and ensure that it can continue to be a light in the world. This creates an opportunity for us to serve in various ways that bring glory to God.
1 Timothy 5:17-18
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For Scripture says, ‘Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,’ and ‘The worker deserves his wages.'” – 1 Timothy 5:17-18
Acts 2:44-45
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” – Acts 2:44-45
Ephesians 4:28
“Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” – Ephesians 4:28
Romans 12:13
“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” – Romans 12:13
Matthew 10:8
“Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” – Matthew 10:8
Contentment in Our Giving
Practicing contentment while tithing is essential for spiritual growth. It’s easy to feel discontent when we look at what others have or when giving requires a sacrifice. However, we are reminded throughout the New Testament that contentment in our hearts enables us to give cheerfully. It’s about finding joy in our giving and realizing that what we have is a gift from God. This perspective shift allows us to focus on the blessings rather than the burdens of giving. Embracing a spirit of contentment helps us to approach tithing with a grateful heart, ready to bless others.
1 Timothy 6:6
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” – Hebrews 13:5
Philippians 4:11
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” – Philippians 4:11
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
Matthew 19:21
“Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'” – Matthew 19:21
The Impact of Generosity
The essence of tithing is found in the heart of generosity. Tithing is not just about the act of giving but the impact our generosity can have on the lives of those around us. When we share freely, we embody the love of Christ and reflect His character. We are called to be generous not only with our funds but also with our time and talents. Embracing a lifestyle of generosity creates a ripple effect, where our small acts of kindness can lead to significant changes in our community, demonstrating God’s love to a world in need.
2 Corinthians 9:11
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” – 2 Corinthians 9:11
Luke 14:13-14
“But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” – Luke 14:13-14
2 Corinthians 8:3
“For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,” – 2 Corinthians 8:3
Proverbs 22:9
“The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.” – Proverbs 22:9
John 15:12-13
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:12-13
Our Motive Behind Tithing
Our hearts matter as we practice the biblical principle of tithing. The New Testament encourages us to evaluate our motives behind giving. Are we giving out of obligation, or do we genuinely want to help others and glorify God? When we approach tithing with the right heart, we align our practices with God’s will. This means that our giving should spring from a desire to see His kingdom advance and serve those in need. Understanding that our tithing reflects our love for God allows us to view our financial contributions differently, becoming a source of joy rather than a burden.
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.” – Matthew 6:1-4
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” – Galatians 6:7
1 John 3:17
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” – 1 John 3:17
Luke 21:1-4
“As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘Truly I tell you,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put more than all the others.'” – Luke 21:1-4
James 2:15-16
“Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” – James 2:15-16
Tithing Is an Act of Worship
When we give our tithes, we are engaging in an act of worship. Tithing isn’t merely about financial transactions; it’s a heartfelt expression of gratitude for what God has done in our lives. We often see in Scripture that worship involves recognizing God’s holiness and His sovereignty over everything, including our resources. Thus, tithing connects our spiritual lives with our daily decisions, reinforcing the idea that our lives should reflect our devotion to God. When we make tithing part of our worship, it becomes more than a duty; it becomes a joyful celebration of God’s blessings.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—that is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Hebrews 13:15
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” – Hebrews 13:15
Psalms 96:8
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come into his courts.” – Psalms 96:8
Acts 4:32-34
“All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.” – Acts 4:32-34
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Trusting God with Our Finances
Tithing requires us to trust God with our finances. It can be challenging to part with a portion of our income, especially when we face financial struggles. Yet, the New Testament reassures us that God knows our needs, and He promises to provide for us. By trusting Him through tithing, we acknowledge His lordship over our finances. This act of faith encourages us to let go of worries about scarcity and instead embrace God’s abundance. With each tithe, we declare our faith in His provision and affirm our belief that He will meet our needs while we seek His kingdom first.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Luke 12:22-23
“Then Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.'” – Luke 12:22-23
Matthew 14:19-20
“And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.” – Matthew 14:19-20
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the beautiful principle of tithing in the New Testament, we realize how much it enriches our lives. Tithing is indeed a glorious act of worship that expresses our trust and faithfulness in God. When we give, we not only support our church and community but also align our hearts with His purposes. We are called to give cheerfully and generously, recognizing that every good gift comes from Him. Tithing is a step of faith that demonstrates our belief in His provision, while also allowing us to experience the blessings that come from being faithful stewards of His grace.
Let’s remember that tithing is more than just a financial obligation; it’s an opportunity to engage with God, growing in our faith and learning to trust Him more each day. As we incorporate tithing into our spiritual practice, we create a rhythm of generosity that impacts not only our lives but the lives of those around us. May we continue to seek God’s guidance and be joyful givers, reflecting Christ’s love and generosity in everything we do.
With every tithe we give, we not only honor God but also encourage a community of believers who serve Him together. Let’s embrace this gift of tithing and allow it to transform our hearts and our relationships. We have an incredible opportunity to not only give but to witness the miracles that God performs when we step out in faith. As we trust in Him and give generously, may we remember that it is a reflection of our love for Him, and a chance to be a blessing in the lives of others.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
