The word "tithe" comes from a Hebrew word, which means "a tenth." a tithe of one's income, or increase, therefore, is one-tenth, (ten percent). Tithing refers to the practice of systematically giving ten percent of one's income back to the Lord for His work.
Some facts to consider:
- Tithing was common practice of holy men of God in Old Testament days.
- Prior to the giving of the Law, God's people tithed voluntarily
- Abraham gave a tenth to Melchizedek, (Gen 14:18 -20)
- Jacob gave a tenth at Bethel, (Gen 28:22)
- When God gave the Law to Moses, tithing was a major part of His overall financial system, (Lev 27:30-33; Num 18:20 -32)
- Jesus confirmed tithing in His teaching and practice, (Mt 23:23; Lk 11:42; Lk 18:12).
- The local church, where an individual is fed, is the designated place for one's tithe, (Deut 12:5,6,13,14).
- God says the tithe is to go for the service, vision, and furtherance of His house, (Num 18:21 -24).
- Some say that God doesn't care what we give, only how we give. God says that He is concerned with both, (Mk 12:41-44; Mt 5:20).
- God says that withholding of tithes and offerings is actually robbing God! (Mal 3:6-10).
- God promises abundance and an outpouring of blessing for those who live in obedience to His Word and who do things His way!
He promises:
- To open the windows of heaven over us, (Mal 3:10).
- To rebuke the devourer for our sakes, (Mal 3:11).
- Nations will call us blessed, (Mal 3:12).
- We will have our needs met by His hand, (Phil 4:19; Ps 145:16).
- We will see miracles of His faithfulness, multiplication and provision with the nine-tenths of income that remain, (Mk 33:44; Prov 3:4-10; Lk 1:37).