What is tithing in the Bible?

Tithing in the Bible refers to giving a tenth of one's income or possessions to God. Tithing has deep roots and holds significant importance in the scriptures. It is first mentioned in the book of Genesis when Abraham, the father of many nations, gave a tenth of his possessions to Melchizedek, a king and a priest. This act represented honor, gratitude, and acknowledging God's provision.

Tithing also extends to setting aside a portion of the first crop from the land as an offering to God. This was done to express thankfulness for a fruitful harvest and to recognize that all blessings came from Him. The tenth was dedicated to God as a demonstration of faith and trust in His provision.

What does the Bible say about paying tithes?

• Tithing is an act of obedience and faithfulness to God.
• Bring the full tithe and test God's promises of blessing.
• Do not neglect justice, mercy, and faith while tithing.
• Honor God with your wealth and acknowledge His provision.
• Tithing supports the work of God's kingdom and demonstrates gratitude.

What is the difference between tithes and offering?

Tithes and offerings are both important in the context of giving in the Christian faith, but they have distinct differences. Tithes, specifically, refer to a fixed amount of money or goods given as a religious obligation. Usually, tithes are measured as 10% of a person's income.

Tithing has biblical roots and is often seen as a way to support the church and clergy. It is considered a fundamental act of faith and obedience to God. The tithe is usually given first, reflecting the principle of putting God first in one's finances.

On the other hand, offerings are voluntary contributions beyond the tithe. They can take various forms, including money, time, skills, or other resources. Offerings are given out of generosity and gratitude to God and are seen as an opportunity to worship and express devotion.

In summary:

• Tithes are a specific amount (usually 10% of income) given as a religious obligation.
• Offerings are voluntary contributions from generosity and gratitude, going beyond the tithe.
• Tithes support the church and are seen as an act of faith and obedience.
• Offerings are additional gifts, supporting various ministries and charitable endeavors.

Bible Verses on Tithing and Offering

Poor Widow's Copper Coins (Luke 21:1-4)

The story of the Poor Widow's Copper Coins, found in Luke 21:1-4, is a powerful illustration of sacrificial giving and Jesus' acknowledgment of it. In this story, Jesus observes people putting their offerings into the temple treasury. Many wealthy individuals contribute large amounts, but a poor widow approaches and puts in two small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.

Despite the insignificance of her gift in monetary terms, Jesus singles out the widow and praises her for her sacrificial giving. He explains that while the wealthy gave from their abundance, she gave all she had, her entire livelihood. Jesus values the widow's offering not based on the amount but because of the heart behind it.

This story serves as a reminder that tithing and giving are not solely about the amount we contribute, but also about our attitude and willingness to give sacrificially. It teaches us that God values our motives more than the material possessions we offer. The widow's example challenges us to prioritize generosity, even when it seems impractical or insignificant.

Key lessons from the story of the Poor Widow's Copper Coins:

1. Sacrificial giving is more important than the amount given.
2. God values our motives and attitudes when it comes to giving.
3. Tithing and giving should be done willingly, without seeking recognition or reward.

Including the keywords: poor widow, copper coins, sacrificial giving, Jesus' acknowledgement, and tithing and giving.

Freewill Offerings (Deuteronomy 16:16-17)

As mentioned in the Bible, freewill offerings refer to voluntary contributions made by individuals to express their gratitude and devotion to God. These offerings differ from tithes and other offerings in that they are not obligatory or set at a specific percentage of income. Instead, freewill offerings are motivated by a generous and willing heart.

In Deuteronomy 16:16-17, the concept of freewill offerings is highlighted. It says, "Three times a year all your men must appear before the Lord your God at the place he will choose: at the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the Festival of Weeks, and the Festival of Tabernacles. No one should appear before the Lord empty-handed. Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you."

This passage emphasizes that individuals should bring offerings by the blessings they have received from God. It recognizes that everyone's blessings and resources may differ, and the magnitude of their offerings should reflect that. Freewill offerings serve as a means for individuals to express their gratitude and acknowledge God's provision.

Key takeaways:

• Freewill offerings are voluntary contributions made out of gratitude and devotion.
• They are not obligatory or set at a specific percentage of income.
• Deuteronomy 16:16-17 highlights the practice of freewill offerings during specific festivals.
• Individuals give freewill offerings in proportion to the blessings they have received from God.

Luke 11:42 (Tithe of Mint)

In Luke 11:42, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their misplaced priorities regarding tithing. He criticizes them for meticulously giving a tithe of mint, rue, and other garden herbs while neglecting justice and the love of God.

This verse carries a profound message about the true essence of tithing. Jesus emphasizes that, beyond giving, it is vital to embody justice and love in our lives. Tithing alone is not sufficient; it is equally crucial to prioritize compassion, fairness, and devotion to God.

By highlighting the Pharisees' error, Jesus challenges us to examine our motives and actions. He encourages us to remember that tithing should not overshadow the weightier matters of justice and love for God and others.

Key message of Luke 11:42:

• Tithing should be accompanied by justice and the love of God.
• Meticulously giving a tithe without practicing justice and love is misplaced prioritization.
• Tithing alone is insufficient; compassion and devotion to God are equally important.

Tax Collector (Matthew 23:23)

In Matthew 23:23, Jesus addresses the religious leaders, specifically the scribes and Pharisees, and rebukes their hypocritical behavior. He criticizes them for meticulously observing minor details of the law, such as tithing herbs like mint, dill, and cumin, while neglecting the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

The significance of the tax collector in this context is that Jesus uses them as an example of those who devoutly follow the law of tithing, as tax collectors were known for their scrupulousness in collecting taxes. However, Jesus points out that their legalistic approach to tithing lacks the essential elements of justice and mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of a holistic approach to giving. It goes beyond compliance with the obligation to tithe or offer material possessions. Jesus emphasizes that believers should also prioritize justice, mercy, and faithfulness in their interactions with others and their relationship with God.

The implications for Christians are clear: while tithing and offering are essential acts of obedience and worship, they should be accompanied by a genuine concern for justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Christians are called to give generously and sacrificially and prioritize love and compassion daily.

Matthew 23:23 reminds Christians of the importance of embodying justice, mercy, and faithfulness in their giving, rather than focusing solely on the mechanical aspect of tithing or offering.

Key Takeaways:

• Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for focusing on tithing minor things while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
• The tax collector is presented as an example of strict adherence to the law of tithing.
• Christians are called to give generously while prioritizing justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
• Additional scriptures include Luke 18:9-14 and Luke 19:1-10, which further highlight the role of tax collectors in biblical teachings on giving.

Windows of Heaven/ Floodgates of Heaven (Malachi 3:10)

Windows of Heaven or Floodgates of Heaven refer to the promise mentioned in Malachi 3:10 where God invites believers to bring their tithes to His house. By practicing this act of obedience, believers activate blessings in their lives. It is a powerful reminder that by faithfully tithing, God promises to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings that cannot be contained.

The “Windows of Heaven” concept conveys the magnitude and abundance of blessings God intends to bestow upon those who honor Him with their tithes. Just as windows allow light and fresh air to enter a room, tithing opens the floodgates of heaven, allowing the overflow of God's blessings to pour into the lives of His faithful followers.

It is important to note that the promise of blessings is not a transactional arrangement but a reflection of God's love and faithfulness towards His people. While tithing is an act of obedience and worship, it is also an opportunity for believers to participate in the divine economy of God's kingdom.

In summary:

• Windows of Heaven/Floodgates of Heaven refer to the promise in Malachi 3:10.
• Tithing is an act of obedience that activates blessings from God.
• God promises to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings that cannot be contained.
• Tithing is a way for believers to participate in God's divine economy and experience His abundant provision.

King of Righteousness (Hebrews 7:2)

In the book of Hebrews, the concept of the King of Righteousness is mentioned in chapter 7, verse 2. This passage refers to Melchizedek, the King of Salem, associated with the title of the King of Righteousness.

Melchizedek was a unique figure mentioned in the Old Testament, and his encounter with Abraham is highlighted in the book of Genesis. He was a king and a priest of God Most High. "King of Salem" means "King of Peace," emphasizing his role as a bringer of peace and righteousness.

The significance of Abraham giving a tenth part of all to Melchizedek is that it showcases Abraham's recognition and honor of Melchizedek's priestly authority and righteousness. This act of tithing represents Abraham's submission to the spiritual authority and the acknowledgment of God's work through Melchizedek.

This passage in Hebrews explains the superiority of Melchizedek's priesthood over the Levitical priesthood, establishing Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest in the order of Melchizedek. It demonstrates the fulfillment of God's plan to bring righteousness and peace through Jesus, who is both the King of Righteousness and the King of Peace.

Key takeaways:

• Melchizedek is referred to as the King of Righteousness in Hebrews 7:2.
• He was also known as the King of Salem and Peace.
• Abraham's offering of a tenth to Melchizedek signifies the acknowledgement of his righteousness and authority.
• Melchizedek's priesthood is seen as superior to the Levitical priesthood and foreshadows Jesus Christ's role as the ultimate High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.

King of Peace (Hebrews 7:2)

In Hebrews 7:2, Melchizedek is called the "King of Peace." This title holds significant meaning about his role as a priest and king.

The name "Salem" itself means "peace," emphasizing the association between Melchizedek and peace. As the King of Salem, Melchizedek embodies the qualities of peace, harmony, and righteousness.

The concept of peace in the Bible goes beyond the absence of conflict. It represents the wholeness and well-being that comes from being in right relationship with God. Melchizedek's title highlights his role as a mediator, offering peace and reconciliation between God and humanity.

Furthermore, peace is closely connected to righteousness. In the biblical context, righteousness refers to living aligned with God's moral standards. Melchizedek's title as the "King of Righteousness" strengthens the link between righteousness and peace.

As Abraham’s offering in Genesis 14 exemplifies, Tithing is an act of worship and acknowledgment of God's provision. Melchizedek's titles further underscore the significance of tithing, as it recognizes God's authority and role in bringing peace and righteousness.

Key Takeaways:

• Melchizedek is known as the "King of Peace" in Hebrews 7:2.
• "Salem" means peace, emphasizing Melchizedek's association with peace.
• Peace in the Bible goes beyond the absence of conflict and represents wholeness and well-being.
• The titles "King of Peace" and "King of Righteousness" are interconnected, highlighting the relationship between peace and righteousness.
• Tithing is an act of worship that acknowledges God's provision and his role in bringing peace and righteousness.

Melchizedek King (Genesis 14; Hebrews 7)

Melchizedek, the King of Salem, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly about tithing and offerings. In Genesis 14, after Abraham's successful battle, he gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything he had captured. This act of giving was not just a material transaction, but a powerful act of worship and acknowledgment of God's provision and blessings.

Melchizedek's role as the King of Salem and receipt of Abraham's offering holds great significance. In Hebrews 7, this connection is further highlighted, as Melchizedek is portrayed as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the ultimate High Priest. Through this connection, we can understand the act of tithing and offerings as part of a greater spiritual truth, pointing to Jesus and his ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

By giving a tenth of his possessions, Abraham demonstrated his trust and obedience to God, recognizing that all he had ultimately belonged to God. This giving is a powerful reminder today that our material offerings are not just financial transactions, but acts of worship and gratitude towards God.

Key Takeaways:

• Melchizedek, the King of Salem, received a tenth of everything Abraham had captured as an act of worship.
• This act of giving emphasizes recognizing God's provision and blessings.
• Melchizedek's role as a precursor to Jesus Christ connects tithing and offerings to the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.
• Giving is not just a material transaction but a powerful act of worship and acknowledgement of God's ownership over all we have.

Luke 6:38 - The Measure You Give Will Be Measured Back to You

Luke 6:38 is a powerful verse highlighting the principle of sowing and reaping about giving. The verse states, "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 back to you."

This verse teaches us that when we give, we should do so generously and with an open heart. The measure of blessings we receive is directly tied to the measure of our giving. If we give sparingly, we can expect to receive sparingly in return. However, if we give generously and with a cheerful heart, blessings will overflow into our lives.

The imagery used in this verse illustrates the abundance of blessings that come from giving. When we give, it's like pouring grain into a measuring cup. In his faithfulness, God presses it down, shakes it together, and allows blessings to overflow into our lives. In this way, our generosity is not only rewarded but multiplied.

Key Takeaways:

• Luke 6:38 emphasizes the principle of sowing and reaping about giving.
• The measure of blessings we receive is directly linked to the measure of our giving.
• Blessings overflow in abundance when we give generously and with an open heart.
• Giving is not just about meeting the needs of others but also about experiencing God's abundant provision.

Matthew 6:21 - Where Your Treasure Is, There Your Heart Will Be Also

Matthew 6:21 reveals a profound truth about the relationship between our treasure and heart regarding tithing and offering. This verse reminds us that where we invest our resources and give our financial support indicates what holds our deepest affections and priorities.

When we give generously to God’s work and others’ needs, we demonstrate that our hearts are aligned with His kingdom. Our treasure represents more than just money; it represents our time, talents, and resources. By willingly offering these to God, we show that our hearts are devoted to Him and His purposes.

This verse prompts us to examine our motives and intentions behind our giving by emphasizing the connection between treasure and heart. It challenges us to evaluate whether our hearts are entangled in the temporary treasures of this world or if they are fixed on eternal realities. When we prioritize spiritual growth, compassion, and love over worldly possessions, our giving becomes an act of worship and an expression of our love for God.

In essence, Matthew 6:21 calls us to be intentional with our resources and to give cheerfully and generously. It teaches us that our hearts will follow suit when our treasure is invested in God’s kingdom. As we prioritize spiritual growth, compassion, and love through our giving, we align ourselves with God's purposes and experience the transformative power of His grace.

Key Takeaways:

• Matthew 6:21 underscores the connection between where our treasure is and where our heart is in giving.
• Our giving reflects the condition of our hearts and reveals our deepest priorities and affections.
• Prioritizing spiritual growth, compassion, and love over worldly possessions in our giving aligns us with God's kingdom and fosters a deeper relationship with Him.
• Giving cheerfully and generously is an act of worship and an expression of our love for God.
• By investing our treasure in God's kingdom, our hearts are directed towards eternal realities and the transformative power of God's grace.

2 Corinthians 9 - Abundant Grace and Blessing

2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NIV) speaks to the connection between generosity and gratitude. It teaches us that as believers, we will be enriched in every way to be generous on every occasion. The scripture emphasizes that our generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

This passage reminds us that when we give freely and willingly, we open ourselves up to experiencing abundant grace and blessing from God. It assures us that as we sow generously, we will reap generously.

The scripture encourages us to give with a cheerful heart, without expecting anything in return. It reminds us that God loves a cheerful giver. Giving generously in obedience to God’s word not only blesses others but also brings glory and honor to Him.

Key Takeaways:

• 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 emphasizes the relationship between generosity and gratitude.
• Believers are encouraged to be generous on every occasion, knowing they will be enriched in every way.
• Our generosity not only blesses others but also brings thanksgiving to God.
• Giving with a cheerful heart, without expecting anything in return, demonstrates our faith and trust in God's provision.
• Through our acts of generosity, we participate in God's work and reflect His love to the world.

Other Scriptures about Tithes and Offerings

Old Testament scriptures on tithing in the bible

• Genesis 28:20–22: (Jacob offers a tithe) Jacob made a vow (to God), "If God will be with me and will watch over me…all that You give me I will give You a tenth.”
• Exodus 35:21: Everyone who was willing and whose heart moved him came and brought an offering to the LORD for the work.
• Exodus 35:22: All willing, men and women alike, came and brought gold jewelry of all kinds: brooches, earrings, rings and ornaments. They all presented their gold as a wave offering to the LORD.
• Leviticus 27:30: (The tithe is introduced into law) 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.
• Leviticus 27:32: The entire tithe of the herd and flock-- every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd's rod-- will be holy to the LORD.
• Numbers 18:21: I give to the Levites (ministers) all the tithes…in return for their work while serving (the Lord).
• Numbers 18:26: (The Levites tithe) Moreover, you shall speak and say to the Levites, “When you take from the people of Israel the tithe that I have given you from them for your inheritance, then you shall present a contribution from it to the Lord, a tithe of the tithe.”
• Deuteronomy 14:22–23: You shall tithe all the yield of your seed from the field year by year. And before the Lord your God, in the place that he will choose, to make his name dwell there, you shall eat the tithe of your grain, of your wine, and of your oil, and the firstborn of your herd and flock, that you may learn to fear the Lord your God always.
• Deuteronomy 14:27–29: At the end of every three years you shall bring out all the tithe of your produce in the same year and lay it up within your towns. And the Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance with you, and the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your towns, shall come and eat and be filled, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands that you do.
• Amos 4:4–5: (God requires more than the tithe) “Come to Bethel, and transgress; to Gilgal, and multiply transgression; bring your sacrifices every morning, your tithes every three days; offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving of that which is leavened, and proclaim freewill offerings, publish them; for so you love to do, O people of Israel!” declares the Lord God.
• 2 Chronicles 31:4–5: And he commanded the people who lived in Jerusalem to give the portion due to the priests and the Levites, that they might give themselves to the Law of the Lord. As soon as the command was spread abroad, the people of Israel gave in abundance the first fruits of grain, wine, oil, honey, and all the field produce. And they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything.
• 2 Chronicles 31:12: God’s people faithfully brought in the contributions, tithes and dedicated gifts.
• Nehemiah 12:43–44: (God’s people) offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing…could be heard far away. Men were appointed to charge the storerooms for the contributions, first fruits and tithes.
• Nehemiah 12:47: All (of God’s people) contributed the daily portions for the singers, gatekeepers…Levites (ministers).
• Nehemiah 13:11–12: I rebuked the officials and asked them, "Why is the house of God neglected?" Then I called them together and stationed them at their posts. All (God’s people) brought the tithes…into the storerooms.
• Malachi 3:7–9: Return to me, and I will return to you," says the LORD Almighty. "But you ask, 'How are we to return?' "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse-- the whole nation of you-- because you are robbing me.
• Malachi 3:11–12: (God says to those who bring him tithes and offerings) “I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit," says the LORD Almighty. "Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land.”
• 1 Kings 17:13, 8–16: Elijah said to (the starving widow), "Don't be afraid…first make a small cake of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the LORD says: 'The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry’…She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was daily food for Elijah and the woman and her family.
• Exodus 36:3–6: The people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning. So all the skilled craftsmen doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work and said to Moses, "The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD commanded to be done." Then Moses gave an order…"No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary." And so the people were restrained from bringing more.
• Malachi 1:6–7: "A son honors his father, a servant honors his master. I am your Father and Master, yet you don't honor me…you despise my name." "Who? Us?" you say. "When did we ever despise your name?" "When you offer polluted sacrifices on my altar." "Polluted sacrifices? When have we ever done a thing like that?" "Every time you say, 'Don't bother bringing anything very valuable to offer to God!'”
• Malachi 1:8–10: (God’s ministers tell people) 'Lame animals are all right to offer on the altar of the Lord-- yes, even the sick and the blind ones.' And you claim this isn't evil? Try it on your governor sometime-- give him gifts like that-- and see how pleased he is!… I have no pleasure in you," says the Lord Almighty, "and I will not accept your offerings.”
• Malachi 1:11: “My name will be honored…from morning till night. All around the world people will offer…pure offerings in honor of my name. For my name shall be great among the nations," says the Lord Almighty.
• Malachi 1:12–13: (Ministers dishonor God by telling people) God’s altar is not important and encourages people to bring cheap, sick animals to offer God. "You say, 'Oh, it's too difficult to serve the Lord and do what he asks.' And you turn up your noses at the rules he has given you to obey. Think of it! Stolen animals, lame and sick-- as offerings to God! Should I accept such offerings as these?" asks the Lord.
• Malachi 1:14: “Cursed is that man who promises a fine ram from his flock and substitutes a sick one to sacrifice to God. For I am a Great King," says the Lord Almighty, "and my name is to be mightily revered among the people of the world."
• Haggai 1:4: "Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while (God’s) house remains a ruin?"
• Haggai 1:5–8: The LORD Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it." The LORD Almighty says this: "Give careful thought to your ways…build (My) house…so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored.”
• Haggai 1:9–11: "You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?" declares the LORD Almighty. "Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house. Therefore, because of you the heavens have withheld their dew and the earth’s crops. I called for a drought on the fields and the mountains, the grain, the new wine, the oil and whatever the ground produces, on men and cattle, and the labor of your hands."
• Proverbs 3:9–10: Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will overflow, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
• Proverbs 18:9: One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.
• Proverbs 28:22: A stingy man is eager to get rich and is unaware that poverty awaits him.
• Proverbs 28:27: He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.
• 1 Chronicles 29:2–3: (King David said to God’s people) “With all my resources I have provided for the temple of my God—gold…silver…bronze…iron…wood…onyx…turquoise…all kinds of fine stone and marble-- all of these in large quantities. In my devotion to the temple of my God I now give my treasures of gold and silver for the temple of my God, over and above everything I have provided.
• 1 Chronicles 29:5–8: (King David said to the leaders) “Who is willing to consecrate himself today to the LORD?" Then the leaders of families…officers…commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds…and the officials…gave willingly. They gave toward the work on the temple of God gold…silver…bronze…iron. Any who had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the temple of the LORD.
• 1 Chronicles 29:9: The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly.
• 1 Chronicles 29:11–12: Everything in heaven and earth is Yours, O LORD. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of everything. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.
• 1 Chronicles 29:13–14: (David prayed to God) “God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.”
• 1 Chronicles 29:16: LORD our God, as for all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name, it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you.
• I Chronicles 29:17: (David prayed to God) “I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these (offerings) I have given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people here have given to you.”
• Ezra 2:68–69: Families gave freewill offerings toward rebuilding the house of God. According to their ability they gave to the treasury for this work.
• Deuteronomy 28:12: The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and bless all your hands’ work. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none.
• Psalm 50:10: Every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills…the creatures of the field are mine… the world is mine, and all that is in it.
• Deuteronomy 8:18: Remember the LORD your God, for he gives you the ability to produce wealth.
• Deuteronomy 16:10: Celebrate the Feast of Weeks to the LORD your God by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the LORD your God has given you.
• Isaiah 32:8: The noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands.

Tithing in the New Testament

Many people know the old testament references tithing, but what does the bible say about paying tithes in the New Testament? Is tithing in the New Testament, or was it a concept only found in the Old Testament? Let’s take a look at the following New Testament scriptures.

• Luke 18:9–14: He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. Standing by himself, the Pharisee prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
• Matthew 6:1–4: Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and the streets, that others may praise them. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so your giving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
• 2 Corinthians 8:2–2: Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as possible, even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.
• 2 Corinthians 8:5: They gave themselves to the Lord and us in keeping with God's will.
• 2 Corinthians 8:7: Just as you excel in everything-- in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and your love for us-- see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
• 2 Corinthians 8:10–11: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion, according to your means.
• 2 Corinthians 8:12: If the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not what he does not have.
• 2 Corinthians 8:20–21: We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.
• 2 Corinthians 9:5: I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you in advance and finish the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given.
• 2 Corinthians 9:10: He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your seed store and enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.
• 2 Corinthians 9:11: You will be made rich 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 9:12: This service you perform not only supplies the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.
• 2 Corinthians 9:13: Men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.
• Matthew 6:26: Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow, reap, or store away in barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
• Matthew 6:27–31: Who of you can add a single hour to his life by worrying? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
• Matthew 6:33–34: Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things (food, clothing, drink) will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
• Mark 12:41–44: Jesus sat down opposite where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything-- all she had to live on."
• 1 Corinthians 16:2: On every Lord's Day each of you should put aside something from what you have earned during the week, and use it for this offering. The amount depends on how much the Lord has helped you earn.
• 1 Timothy 6:6–8: Godliness with contentment is great gain. We brought nothing into the world and can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
• 1 Timothy 6:9: People who want to get rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.
• 1 Timothy 6:17–19: Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
• Matthew 6:19–21: (Jesus said) "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
• Hebrews 6:10: God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
• Acts 2:44–45: All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.
• Romans 12:13: Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
• Hebrews 13:16: Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
• I John 3:17: If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?
• Luke 18:22–25: When Jesus heard this, he told the rich young ruler, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor; you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was a man of great wealth. Jesus looked at him and said, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
• Luke 11:42: But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.
• Galatians 6:6:Those who are taught the Word of God should help their teachers by paying them.
• Galatians 6:6: Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.
• Matthew 25:35–40: I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?’…"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
• Acts 20:35: (Remember Jesus’ words when he said) “It is more blessed to give than to receive.