The earth and all its resources are God's, but He graciously allows us to use them. For what He has given us, we have a financial obligation to Him, and through the system of tithes and offerings, that responsibility is satisfied. The Old Testament introduces it as an established and ongoing practice. Later, it was codified as part of God's law given to Israel in the wilderness, and administered by the Levites until the destruction of the Temple. In strongly addressing the Levites about their responsibilities, Jesus confirmed its practice. Through the apostle Paul, the New Testament church confirmed that the ministry and the work of the church is to be financially supported by the individual members of the body. God did not change the tithing system He instituted before Abraham, only its administration by the New Testament church ministry. Giving tithes and offerings is an act of worship of God. Tithing is giving a percentage of one's income as set by God, and offerings are given as determined by the individual's evaluation of what he is able. The church does not enforce or police tithing, but teaches the obligation the individual has to honor God with his substance and the firstfruits of all his increase.
Scripture References:
Genesis 1:26-27; Psalm 24:1; 104:24; Deuteronomy 8:18; I Corinthians 10:25-28; Matthew 6:19-21; Genesis 14:18-20; Leviticus 27:30; Numbers 18:24; Deuteronomy 14:22-28; 16:16-17; Matthew 23:23; Luke 16:10-13; 21:1-4; II Corinthians 9:6-7; Hebrews 7:1-10; II Corinthians 3:3-7; Acts 5:1-5; 4:34-35; I Corinthians 9:1-14; Malachi 3:8-12; Proverbs 3:9-10
From the Library: Tithing
Tithing: God's Financial System
Article by John O. ReidGod's church emphasizes the importance of tithing as a form of worship and obedience to Him. In ancient Israel, the sons of Levi were commanded to take tithes from the people for their work in the tabernacle. Over 400 years before the Levitical priesthood, Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek, priest of the Most High God. With …
Tithing
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe biblical system of tithing remains a significant aspect of spiritual practice, endorsed by God from Genesis to Revelation as the only financial system He supports. Tithing involves returning one-tenth of one's income or increase to God for His use, a principle demonstrated by Jacob who promised to give a tenth of his …
Tithing (1995)
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThe biblical system of tithing stands as the only financial system God endorses from Genesis to Revelation. Through tithing, God provides for the preaching of the gospel and the feeding of the flock, expressing love toward Him and love toward neighbor. Tithing, in its simplest form, is returning one-tenth of one's income to God …
Tithing: First Tithe
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe tithing principle in God's Word goes beyond simply giving a tenth of one's increase. God commands us to tithe, but doing so merely out of necessity falls short of the giving He expects. It is a matter of conversion and attitude, reflecting our willingness and eagerness to obey all that our heavenly Father commands. Tithing …
Common Tithing Questions
'Ready Answer' by StaffFor years, members of God's church have had questions about the tithing system. The early Worldwide Church of God taught that members should give three tithes, amounting to thirty percent of their increase. The first tithe, given to the church annually, financed the work of preaching the gospel and feeding the flock. The second …
Tithing: Second Tithe
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsGod, in His wisdom and mercy, provides for the financial needs of His people during the annual holy days by instructing them to set aside a second tenth of their increase. This second tithe, saved by the individual each year, is an additional tithe of their income, designated for personal use during God's festivals to ensure …
Tithing
Sermon by John O. ReidThis comprehensive overview of tithing explores the attitudes we should have toward tithing, the purposes of the tithe, and the benefits of tithing.
Tithing: 'Try Me Now!' (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsTithing requires faith and trust in God, who provides our ability to acquire wealth. Each member must make his own decision. Tithing is based on increase.
For more resources, please see the library topic for Tithing
From the Library: Offerings
The Meaning of the Offering
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The New Covenant sacrifices are far more demanding than the Old Covenant sacrifices. But there are poignant lessons to be learned from animal sacrifices.
Quality Holy Day Offerings
Article by StaffWe tend to forget how different holy days offerings were under the Old Covenant. However, the important part of giving offerings remains the same.
What Is an Offering?
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe first recorded offering teaches that offerings arise from the fruits of our labor and that God values the giver's heart more than the gift itself.
Offerings and Sacrificing
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughAn offering is a gift given to God. The Bible clearly shows that the requirement for the offering was in force at the time of Adam and Eve.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part One): Introduction
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe offerings of Leviticus, though not necessary under the New Covenant, are invaluable for teaching about Christ in His roles as sacrifice, offerer, and priest.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Nine): Conclusion (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThere must be something to prove we are one with Christ and in union with the Father and the Son. That something is the manner in which we conduct our life.
Offerings (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe sacrifices teach us about the mind, heart, and character of Jesus. The burnt offering symbolizes complete devotion to God in every aspect of life.
Offerings (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe burnt offering shows Christ giving Himself completely to God as God's portion. It represents a life fully devoted to God, which is what truly satisfies Him.
For more resources, please see the library topic for Offerings