Where in the Bible Does it Say to Tithe? A Faithful, Bible‑Based Guide for Christians

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Where in the Bible Does it Say to Tithe?

If you’ve ever asked, “Where in the Bible does it say to tithe?” you’re not alone. Many believers want to understand what Scripture actually teaches about giving 10%, how tithing originated, and what it means for Christians today. This devotional and trustworthy guide will walk you through the biblical foundation of tithing, verse by verse, with clarity, faith, and heart fulfilling the real search intent behind the question.

What the Bible Teaches About Tithing

Tithing is often described as giving 10% of your income or increase to the Lord but why does that matter? Is it a command for believers today? Or is it part of an ancient system that pointed to something deeper? This article answers these questions from scripture itself, not tradition or opinion.

1. What Does “Tithe” Mean in the Bible?

The word tithe literally means “a tenth” one‑tenth of what God blesses you with. This concept appears first in the Bible long before any formal law was given.

A tithe is more than a financial principle it’s a spiritual acknowledgement that everything we have comes from the Lord.

2. First Mentions of Tithing: Before the Law

Genesis 14: Abraham’s Tithe

The first person in Scripture to give a tithe was Abraham, long before the Mosaic Law was ever given:

1. Genesis 14:20 — “And Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”

Here, Abraham gives a tithe to Melchizedek, the king‑priest of God Most High, in humble worship and thanksgiving.

2. Genesis 28: Jacob’s Vow

Later, Jacob vows to give a tenth to God if God would bless and protect him:

He promises, “…of all that You give me I will surely give a tenth to You.”
Though this was a personal vow, it shows that tithing was recognized as an act of devotion even before it became law.

3. Tithing Under the Mosaic Law (Old Testament)

When the Israelites became a nation, God instituted tithing as part of the Law of Moses. This law was not just religion it was community stewardship and care for God’s servants.

1. Leviticus 27:30

“A tithe of everything from the land… belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.”
This made it clear: The tithe was God’s portion — set apart as holy.

2. Numbers 18:21

God commanded that the Levites who had no land inheritance be supported by the tithe.

3. Deuteronomy 14:22‑29

Here God instructs Israel to not only bring a yearly tithe but also to share it with strangers, orphans, widows, and the needy. This teaches that God’s provision is to care for others too.

4. Malachi 3:10

This is one of the most powerful OT verses on tithing:

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out blessing.”
This passage shows that God commands tithes and He promises blessing when His people obey.

4. Where Does the Bible Say to Tithe in the New Testament?

Some Christians wonder: Does the New Testament command tithing? Let’s look at what Scripture says.

1. Matthew 23:23 and Luke 11:42

Jesus rebukes the religious leaders:

“You tithe… but you neglect justice, mercy and faithfulness.”
Jesus never condemns tithing itself but He refocuses our hearts toward love and righteousness above ritual.

2. Hebrews 7:1‑10

The writer of Hebrews explains Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek showing that tithing was a recognized act of worship even before the Law.

2. 2 Corinthians 9:7

Paul teaches about giving in the New Testament church:

“Each one should give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This emphasizes the heart‑attitude of giving not a strict legal requirement.

5. Old Covenant vs. New Covenant: What’s the Difference?

Under the Old Covenant, tithing was part of God’s law for Israel structured and specific.
Under the New Covenant, the church is called to generous, joyful giving that reflects Jesus’ love and sacrifice.

Jesus fulfilled the law, inviting believers into a new standard of grace giving not because we have to, but because we want to honor God with all He’s entrusted to us.

This doesn’t dismiss the principles of tithing it fulfills them with heart‑based generosity.

6. Why Many Christians Still Practice Tithing Today

Many churches encourage tithing as a biblical guideline a starting point for stewardship and generosity that supports ministry, pastors, missions, and care for those in need. Tithing becomes a tangible way to say:
“Lord, You are first in my life.”

But believers should never give out of obligation or fear instead, out of love, gratitude, and trust in God.

7. Conclusion: What the Bible Really Says

Tithing is first mentioned in Genesis with Abraham and Jacob.
It becomes law under Moses as part of Israel’s covenant with God.
Jesus acknowledges it but points our focus to justice, mercy, and sincere devotion.
The New Testament invites us to generous, cheerful giving, not legalism.

Your Next Step in Faith

Whether you choose to tithe 10%, give more, or give generously in other ways let your giving be a response of gratitude to the God who gives all good things freely to you.

Give with a joyful heart. Give with obedience. Give with love.
And remember the Bible’s focus is always on the condition of the heart.