What is a tithe?
The word tithe means a tenth. Tithing is the giving of one-tenth of your income to the Lord through the local church
(Gen. 14:18-20, 28:20-22).
Why should I tithe?
God actually commands us to tithe. Tithing also demonstrates a partnership with God. It is an act of worship, obedience, and
commitment to the Lord (Lev. 27:30-33; Deut. 14:22-27).
What are some of the major benefits to tithing?
Tithing unlocks the door to God’s treasure chest. It positions us for God’s blessings. By consistently tithing we develop the discipline of obedience which leads to other areas of spiritual maturity. Tithing helps us to budget and practice good financial management
(Mal. 3:6-12).
How often should I tithe?
You tithe as often as you receive income. If you get paid weekly, your tithe is weekly. If your income is commission-based, your tithe occurs when you receive your commission (1 Cor. 16:1-2).
Do I tithe off the gross or the net?
We teach tithing off the gross. Abraham paid tithes from the first part of the spoils of war and not after allocating portions to his men (Gen. 14:17-24; Prov. 3:9-10). In other words, the first of all our increase goes to God and then the rest is divided, including the government and retirement.
Where do I pay my tithe?
The tithe goes to the Lord through your home church. If you’re between churches, tithe where you are being fed spiritually. The tithe always goes to the local church—God’s house (Mal. 3:10; 1 Cor. 16:1-2).
Are we to tithe since we are under grace (the New Testament era) and no
longer under the law of the Old Testament?
Yes, we’re under grace. Tithing occurred before the Law (Gen. 14:18-20, 28:20-22), was an Old Testament practice (Lev. 27:30-33) but is also enjoyed under grace, as taught in the New Testament (Matt. 23:23; Heb. 7:8). Proportionate giving is tithing (1 Cor. 16:1-2).
What did Jesus do about tithing?
Jesus taught that tithing starts in the heart and not with your money. Obedience to all Christian virtues like justice, mercy and faithfulness begins in the heart (Matt. 23:23).
What should I do if my spouse is against tithing?
Strive to keep peace in your home. If you do not work and the entire household income comes from your spouse, don’t insist on tithing from that source. However, if you receive a portion as your allowance, tithe from that amount. You may also invite your spouse to take the 90-Day Tithe Challenge as a means of developing their faith in God’s ability to provide (Psalm 133:1).
Is it okay to pause from tithing during tough financial times?
No place in Scripture is that suggested or mentioned. Tithing is a way of maintaining the principle: God is first in my life. Many who’ve taken a break from tithing because of debt have commented how their finances only grew worse by not tithing.
Tithing was created for your benefit (Mal. 3:6-12).
Are tithes the same as offerings?
This is a great question. The tithe is a command representing 10 percent of our income. Offerings are any gift we determine and can be given towards a the poor, missions, a special church project or any other expression of thanks in your devotion to God (2 Cor. 9:6-8).
What happens if I want to give beyond a tithe?
That’s great! Learning to live well beneath your means is a wonderful way of safeguarding your heart against greed. It is also a great way of providing additional support to the spreading of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Matt. 6:21).
What are some reasons people give for not tithing?
"I can’t afford to tithe." "God doesn’t need my money." "My church seems to be doing fine." "I don’t see the benefit of tithing." Until people learn that generosity is the heartbeat of God and the DNA of His children, they will always find a reason not to give. Giving is a huge step of faith that starts in the heart. We launched this 90-Day Tithe Challenge so that our Freedom Church family can experience God’s willingness to bless them at His invitation to “Test Me”, as found in Malachi 3:10.
What happens if I don't tithe?
We hope you understand through all of this that it is your decision whether or not to tithe. Our heart is not to make you feel guilty. This is not something we want from you. It really is something we want for you. We believe that God's word is clear and we don't want you to miss out on God’s miraculous means of providing for you and your family (Deut. 28:1-14).