The biblical system of tithing reveals its presence long before the time of Moses. Jacob, aware of God's command to tithe, promised to return one-tenth of his increase to God, as seen in Genesis 28:22. This knowledge likely came from his grandfather, Abraham, and his father, Isaac. Genesis 14:18-20 further illustrates that Abraham gave tithes to God's representative, the priest, acknowledging God's rulership and providence. This demonstrates that the law of tithing was in effect well before it was commanded through Moses, establishing it as a principle of returning one-tenth of one's income to God for His use.

The biblical system of tithing reveals its presence long before the time of Moses. Jacob, aware of God's command to tithe, promised to return a tenth of his blessings or increase to God. This knowledge likely came from his grandfather, Abraham, and his father, Isaac. The account of Abraham demonstrates key principles of tithing: the tithe is given to God through His representative, the priest; it is consistently one-tenth; this practice was in effect well before God commanded it through Moses; and Abraham, blessed for his faithfulness, gave tithes in recognition of God's rulership and providence. Since the tithing law predates the Levitical priesthood, it remains in force, underscoring its enduring significance in expressing love toward God and neighbor through faithful giving.

Over 400 years before the Levitical priesthood was established, Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek, priest of the Most High God. Paul shows that Abraham's descendants paid tithes through Abraham to Melchizedek. Even Levi, who receives tithes, paid tithes through Abraham, so to speak. Jesus Christ is now our High Priest, and because a change in the priesthood requires a change in the law, we are to pay tithes to Him, as Abraham did when He appeared as Melchizedek. God commands His people to give a tenth of their income to God, reflecting His great love for us as individuals and as a church.

Tithing was in effect long before the time of Moses, as evidenced by the actions of Abraham and Jacob. Abraham, in Genesis 14:18-20, tithed ten percent of the spoils of war, which included gold, silver, apparel, and other valuable items, not agricultural produce, demonstrating that tithing applied to non-agricultural endeavors. Similarly, Jacob, in Genesis 28:20-22, promised to give God a tenth of what he received during his travels, including protection, food, and raiment, again showing tithing was not limited to farming. This indicates that both patriarchs understood the principle of tithing, likely passed down through generations from Abraham to Isaac and then to Jacob, as a fundamental practice of giving to God from the increase of their efforts, regardless of the source.

From the creation of man, God has continually given to humanity, providing life itself and the potential for eternal life in His Kingdom. As part of this relationship, God expects His children to learn the principle of giving. Tithing, as a form of giving, involves returning to God a portion of what He has first given us, reflecting a generous spirit and gratitude. The biblical record demonstrates that tithing was in effect long before the time of Moses. It is first mentioned when Abraham, the father of the faithful, gave one tenth of all his goods to Melchizedek, whose priesthood predates even the patriarchs. Jacob also acknowledged God by promising to give Him a tenth of all. By the time of the Exodus, when the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob had grown into a great multitude, the principles of giving remained unchanged, though the population's size necessitated a written code of law during Moses' era. However, tithing had already been an ongoing financial practice for hundreds, if not thousands, of years before it was formally instituted in Israel's civil code. This principle of tithing, predating the Levitical priesthood and the Old Covenant, remains in force. It did not originate with the Old Covenant and thus did not cease with it. The law of tithing continues as a demonstration of faith and obedience, showing trust in God and worship through the act of giving.

In the study of tithing, it is evident that this practice was in effect long before the time of Moses. Abraham, known as the father of the faithful, demonstrated this principle in Genesis 14 by giving a tenth of the choicest spoils of war to Melchizedek, recognizing that his victory came from God. This act reflected an attitude of gratitude and acknowledgment that all he had was from God, setting an example of giving the very best to Him. Similarly, in Genesis 28, Jacob also tithed, understanding that his substance, success, and defense were provided by God. Both patriarchs relied on God's provision and guidance, showing that tithing was a practice rooted in their relationship with Him. The question arises whether God's laws, including tithing, were in effect prior to the exodus. It is clear that God instructed those with whom He worked, such as Abraham and Jacob, long before the Ten Commandments were given at Sinai. How else would they have known to give specifically ten percent unless they had received such instruction from God through Melchizedek? This indicates that God's laws and commandments were already imparted to mankind, guiding their actions and offerings. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob kept these laws, demonstrating that tithing was not a new concept introduced later but a principle established from early times.