If God made the whole world and owns everything, why does the Bible tell us to give 10% of what we have? Is it only an Old Testament rule, or should Christians still follow it today? These are questions many believers have.
Tithing in the Bible explained is not only about giving money. It is about showing trust in God, worshipping Him, and putting Him first in our lives. In the Old Testament, people gave a tenth of their crops and animals. God even gave a promise in Malachi 3:10: “Bring the whole tithe… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you.”
From Abraham giving a tithe to Melchizedek, to Jesus teaching about generosity, the Bible shows that giving is part of a believer’s heart. In this study, we will see what tithing really means, the three types of tithes in the Bible, the principles behind it, and how it applies to us today. By the end, you will understand that tithing is more than numbers it is a way to honor God with what He has already given us.
What is Tithing in the Bible?
Tithing means giving one-tenth of what we have back to God. The word for tithe in Hebrew is ma’aser, which simply means “tenth.” In Bible times, this was not just money it included crops, fruits, and animals. People gave the first and best part of what they had to God as a sign of thankfulness and obedience.
The Old Testament sets the foundation for tithing. In Leviticus 27:30, God says, “A tithe of everything from the land… belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.” Even before the Law was given, we see tithing in action. Genesis 14:20 tells us that Abraham gave a tenth of everything he had to the priest Melchizedek.
Tithing in the Bible explained is not about God needing our resources He already owns everything. It is about us showing Him that He comes first in our hearts.
Biblical Meaning of Tithing
Old Testament Meaning
In the Old Testament, tithing was part of everyday life. Israel was an agricultural society, so tithes often came from grain, wine, oil, and livestock. People brought these tithes to the temple to support the Levites (the priests who served God), to fund worship festivals, and to help the poor, widows, and orphans.
It was a clear reminder that every blessing came from God. By giving the first 10%, people were saying, “Lord, You are my provider, and I trust You with the rest.”
New Testament Perspective
In the New Testament, the focus shifts from a fixed percentage to the heart behind giving. Paul writes in
2 Corinthians 9:7,
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Jesus also taught that giving is about love, generosity, and helping others not just following a rule. Tithing in the Bible explained through the New Testament shows us that God values our heart more than the amount we give. When we give freely and joyfully, we reflect His generous nature.
3 Types of Tithes in the Bible
When we hear the word “tithe,” we often think of just one kind of giving. But in the Old Testament, there were actually three main types of tithes. Each one had a special purpose and showed a different side of God’s heart for His people.
1. Levitical Tithe – Numbers 18:21–24
This tithe was given to support the Levites, the tribe God chose to serve in the temple. The Levites did not receive land like the other tribes; instead, they were fully dedicated to God’s work.
Numbers 18:21 says,
“I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving.”
By giving this tithe, the people made sure God’s house was cared for, and His servants could focus on ministry without worrying about their daily needs.
2. Festival Tithe – Deuteronomy 14:22–27
This tithe was set aside to be enjoyed during special worship festivals in Jerusalem. Families would bring their tithe and celebrate God’s goodness together through feasting, worship, and rejoicing. Deuteronomy 14:26 even says they could buy food and drink for the celebration.
It reminds us that giving is not always about loss it can also be about joy, fellowship, and remembering God’s blessings with gratitude.
3. Charity Tithe (Third-Year Tithe) – Deuteronomy 14:28–29
Every third year, the people gave a special tithe to help those in need the poor, the widows, the orphans, and the foreigners living among them.
Deuteronomy 14:29 says,
“So that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.”
This tithe showed God’s deep care for justice and compassion. He wanted His people to be generous, especially toward those who could not provide for themselves.
7 Biblical Principles of Tithing
Tithing in the Bible explained is not just about a rule it’s about living by God’s principles. The Bible gives us timeless truths about why and how we give. Here are seven key principles every believer should know.
1. God Owns Everything – Psalm 24:1
“The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it.” Everything we have comes from God. When we tithe, we’re simply returning a small portion of what already belongs to Him.
2. Firstfruits Belong to God – Proverbs 3:9
“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” God deserves the first and best, not what’s left over. Giving first shows that He is our priority.
3. Proportional Giving
In the Bible, the tithe was a set percentage 10% so that everyone could give in proportion to what they had. God looks at faithfulness, not the size of the amount.
4. Faith & Trust in God’s Provision – Malachi 3:10
God challenges His people: “Test me in this… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you.” Tithing is a step of faith, trusting that God will take care of all our needs.
5. Worship Through Giving – Deuteronomy 26:10
“And now I bring the firstfruits of the soil that you, LORD, have given me.” Giving is an act of worship, a way to say “Thank You” to the One who blesses us.
6. Blessing Follows Obedience
Throughout Scripture, we see that when God’s people obey Him in giving, He blesses them sometimes spiritually, sometimes materially, always abundantly.
7. Give Cheerfully – 2 Corinthians 9:7
“God loves a cheerful giver.” Our giving should come from joy, not pressure. God cares more about the heart behind the gift than the gift itself.
Is Tithing Mandatory for Christians Today?
This is one of the most common questions believers ask. The Old Testament clearly commands tithing, but what about the New Testament? Let’s see what the Bible says.
Old Testament vs. New Testament
In the Old Testament, tithing was a clear law given to Israel. It was part of their worship system, supporting the Levites, temple work, and the poor. Not tithing was considered disobedience to God’s commands.
In the New Testament, the focus shifts. Instead of setting a fixed percentage, the emphasis is on generosity, willingness, and the heart’s attitude. Believers are called to give freely and joyfully, not because of legal obligation, but out of love for God.
Jesus’ Teaching – Matthew 23:23
Jesus said to the religious leaders: “You give a tenth… but you have neglected the more important matters of the law justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.”
This shows that Jesus did not cancel the idea of tithing but reminded us that giving must come with a pure heart and right priorities.
Modern Church Giving Practices
Today, many churches encourage tithing as a biblical guideline, while also teaching that giving can go beyond 10%. Some believers give more, some less, but the key is generosity and faithfulness. Whether we follow the exact 10% or not, the New Testament principle remains: give regularly, cheerfully, and in a way that honors God.
Bible Verses About Tithing
Here are some powerful Bible verses about tithing that show God’s heart for giving, each with a short explanation:
Leviticus 27:30 –
“A tithe of everything from the land… belongs to the LORD.”
This verse shows that the tithe is holy it belongs to God, not us.
Genesis 14:20 –
“Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”
Abraham tithed before the Law, showing it’s a timeless principle.
Numbers 18:21 –
God gives tithes to the Levites for their service in the temple.
A reminder that tithes support God’s work and His servants.
Deuteronomy 14:22 –
Tithing was to be done every year from what God provided.
Giving should be regular and intentional.
Malachi 3:10 –
“Test me in this… and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven.”
God promises blessing when we give faithfully.
Proverbs 3:9–10 –
“Honor the LORD with your wealth… then your barns will be filled.”
Giving first leads to God’s abundant provision.
Matthew 23:23 –
Jesus affirms tithing but stresses justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
2 Corinthians 9:7 – “God loves a cheerful giver.”
New Testament giving is from the heart, not from pressure.
Practical Application Today
Tithing today may not look exactly like it did in Bible times, but the principles still apply. Here’s how you can live them out:
How to Tithe on Salary or Business Income
- Calculate 10% of your monthly income and set it aside first.
- If you’re self-employed, tithe on your net profit after expenses.
- Give to your local church as your primary place of spiritual feeding.
Heart Attitude Over Percentage
God cares more about the heart than the exact number. If you can give more, do it joyfully. If you are in a tight financial season, give what you can with faith and love.
Tithing Checklist
- Set aside your tithe first, before spending.
- Pray over your giving, thanking God for His provision.
- Give regularly (weekly or monthly).
- Support your local church first.
- Be open to extra giving for missions and those in need.
FAQs: About Tithing in the Bible Explained
What is the process of tithing?
Set aside 10% of your income first, then prayerfully give it to your local church or ministry as an act of worship.
What is the prayer before tithing?
Thank God for His blessings, dedicate your gift to Him, and ask Him to use it for His kingdom work.
What is the spiritual principle of tithing?
Tithing teaches trust, gratitude, and putting God first in every area of life.
Is the church a storehouse for tithing?
Yes, many Christians see their local church as the “storehouse” where tithes are brought to support God’s work.
What are the three tithes in the Bible?
The Levitical Tithe, the Festival Tithe, and the Charity (Third-Year) Tithe.
Why is tithing 10%?
The word “tithe” means “tenth” in Hebrew, showing God’s set portion for His people to give.
Conclusion: Tithing as Worship and Faith
Tithing in the Bible explained is not just about giving money. It is about showing God that we trust Him and that we are thankful for everything He gives us. From the Old Testament laws to the New Testament call for cheerful giving, the heart of tithing has always been worship and faith.
When we give our first and best to God, we are saying, “Lord, You are my provider.” Tithing teaches us to put God first, to care for His work, and to bless others in need. It is not just a duty it is a joyful way to grow closer to Him.
Take a moment to think about your own giving. Is it done with joy? Does it reflect trust in God? Remember, the amount matters less than the heart behind it.
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