A tithe simply means a tenth.

Tithing was commanded as part of the old covenant and was given to the Levites in place of the land inheritance given to the other tribes of Israel (Numbers 18:21-24).

Although there is no scriptural support for tithing under the new covenant, many churches, as well as some denominations require tithing for members. Others strongly encourage it. This requirement is often primarily based on Malachi 3:8-10.

“Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you say, ‘How have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. “You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing Me, the whole nation of you! “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,” says the LORD of hosts, “if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows.”  NASB

These same organizations recognize and teach that the old covenant has been superseded by the new, but somehow this particular part of the law remains in effect – a position which is theologically dishonest.

There are various arguments both for and against the practice of tithing, but we do not need to address most of them because God has stated His position for this age which is “Tithing is good. It is not required.” (Membership in the Church of the Reformation, God’s word published 1/22/2010) This pretty much takes the wind out of the sails on both sides of the argument.

Let’s be perfectly clear. God desires giving. He loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7), advises us to give as we purpose in our hearts (2 Corinthians 9:7), and commends the widow’s mite (Luke 21:2-4). He does not demand a tithe, only that we give as we are able (Deuteronomy 16:17).

What God does command is that we love the Lord our God with all of our being (Matthew 22:37) and our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). The former does not mention money, the later often does require money, yet how many churches build great edifices and pay their staff very well but spend a pittance on helping their neighbors, let alone their own members? It is a shame upon the church and an insult to God. Repent, and put your money where your heart is, and if you need to move your heart – then do so.

God has also said that “giving in support of your neighbor is just as valid as giving to the church.” (a word from God published 1/22/2010). Does this mean you should not support the church? Of course not. Paul is very clear that ministers of the gospel are entitled to support even though he did not demand it for himself (1 Corinthians 9:4-14). But nowhere is there a commandment to build buildings or great hierarchies or pay a specified amount to support them. Even Solomon’s temple was not built at the command of God, but because of David’s desire to honor God.

Let’s get our position straight – the church should be doing good works; preaching the gospel, feeding the poor, healing the sick, and freeing the captives. Much of this work requires money. But far too much is spent by many in building temples to themselves and supporting inappropriate lifestyles for their ‘priests’. Televangelists and mega churches are especially vulnerable to this excess and to endlessly emphasizing and requesting money, often coupled with a tithe plus giving for ‘blessing’ message. This prosperity gospel was never taught by Jesus or the apostles. Do not fall for it now.

Good works, whether your own or communally by the church, require knowing God’s will with a humble and obedient attitude – and yes, money too. Many good works can be done without money, but some good works require it. If God moves you to tithe in support of the church and/or good works – wonderful! That is a good thing. If you give less, or more, you are judged not by the amount but by your heart.

God loves a cheerful giver. The amount is not to be determined by a rule (tithing), but by all the instructions He has given us and also by your own purposes and ability.

Tithing is good – it is not required.