The only mention of tithing in the New Testament is found in the book of Hebrews and that is a reflection back onto the book of Genesis when Abraham tithed to Melchisedec. The single exception is when Jesus criticized the Pharisees for their motives in tithing. Some say that Christians are not obligated to give 10% of their income because it is not in the New Testament. Even so, let us examine the reasons why Christians should tithe.
It is a means to support the ministry of the church so that expenses are covered. If those who attend simply gave a portion of what they chose, the church likely would be in a dire financial situation. Tithing is the fairest way to receive funds from the members because whatever the income of a person is, the outcome is evenly distributed.
It is a reflection of appreciation to God for all that he has given us from our material needs to our salvation. It is a routine way that we honor him. It is a way nonverbally to display that anything we have comes from him. To not do so is a type of greediness.
It is the method the entire congregation can silently worship the Lord. When each of us put funds in the collection, it is more than a thank you. In the Old Testament, tithing was directly connected to what those believers did in worship. We are saying to God that we recognize he actually owns everything and what we have comes from his mercy and grace.
It is a celebration in unity of the entire congregation. They are saying, “we are together believing that God has provided for us in so many special ways.” For the members to present their money to the church they are believing that the ministry being performed by this local congregation is of value, it is important.
It is a recognition of those staff members and the pastor who have dedicated themselves and consecrated themselves to God instead of secular work. If a pastor would’ve worked in a secular job, it is highly likely that he would have earned much more money than serving the church. He has a calling and conviction that God called him to make the sacrifice so that the spiritual needs and support of others would be met.
It is an opportunity to celebrate the victories, the results of how God has used the church to reach other people, to teach children through adults the gospel, to keep Scripture clarified so that no one goes astray into phony doctrine.
A word of caution! Do not! Do not! Ever, ever send your tithe to a televangelist. Those people are charlatans who manipulate the vulnerable so they might live in mansions and fly in private jets. Examine closely whether a televangelist is preaching the gospel or is fleecing those watching on television.
Christian Writer 