Tithing is one of the most-talked-about and most-debated Christian practices. The biblical principles are clearer than the cultural noise. This guide walks through what tithing is, what the Bible says, and how to start.
Genesis 14:20 — Abraham gave Melchizedek 'tithes of all.' Leviticus 27:30 — 'all the tithe of the land... is the LORD's.' Malachi 3:10 — 'Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse... and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven.' Jesus commended tithing but emphasized weightier matters (Matthew 23:23). New Testament emphasizes generous, proportional, cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Tithe literally means 'tenth.' Old Testament Israel gave 10% of income/produce to the LORD.
Christians differ. Some tithe from gross income (before taxes); some from net (after). Either is acceptable; commit to one.
Proverbs 3:9 — 'firstfruits.' Set up automatic giving if helpful. Give first; live on the rest.
Primary destination of biblical giving. Support the church where you are spiritually fed and where you serve.
2 Corinthians 9:7 — 'not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.'
See 2 Corinthians 9:7 →Tithing is a starting point, not a ceiling. Many Christians give more — to the church, to missions, to specific needs.
Tithing is giving 10% of income or produce to God. The word 'tithe' literally means 'tenth.' It is rooted in the Old Testament (Leviticus 27:30) and practiced by Abraham (Genesis 14) before the law. It is a baseline for generous Christian giving.
Christians differ. Some hold tithing as a binding biblical principle. Others hold the NT teaches proportional, cheerful, sacrificial giving (2 Corinthians 8-9) — sometimes far exceeding 10%. All agree: generous giving is part of the Christian life. Tithing is a wise baseline.
Primarily to the local church (Malachi 3:10 — 'the storehouse'). The church then funds ministry, missions, and care for the poor. Beyond the tithe, Christians give to specific needs, missions, and people in need. Don't replace the church with other causes; add to it.