Tithing Is Not Outdated

Scripture Reflection:
Matthew 23:23b; “But you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things.” NLT

3 Inspirational Quotes on the Law of Tithing

• Adrian Rogers “God doesn’t need us to give Him our money. He owns everything. Tithing is God’s way to grow Christians.”
• John D. Rockefeller “I never would have been able to tithe the first million dollars I ever made if I had not tithed my first salary, which was $1.50 per week.”
• Ken Blanchard “I absolutely believe in the power of tithing and giving back… the more I give away, the more that comes back.”

There has been a lack of understanding about the subject of tithing, which has caused many believers to miss out on the blessings that God intends for them. Sadly, because of the selfish actions or wrong motives of a few preachers, some people now view tithing as a man-made system to enrich pastors. However, tithing is not a church-made rule; it is a divine and biblical principle. It is not outdated, because it is rooted in God’s eternal Word and continues to reflect His nature of faithfulness, generosity, and order.

Old Testament Foundation

1. Biblical Command:
In the Old Testament, God directly instructed His people to bring a tenth of their income as a tithe (Leviticus 27:30–32; Deuteronomy 14:22–29). The tithe supported the Levites who served in the temple, as well as the poor and needy. This was not optional, it was a spiritual duty tied to their covenant relationship with God.

2. Principle of Honor:
Tithing was also a way to honour God with the first and best portion of what He provided. Proverbs 3:9–10 says, “Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty.” Giving the first tenth showed gratitude, dependence, and trust that God would continue to provide.

New Testament Continuation

1. Jesus’ Endorsement:
In the New Testament, Jesus confirmed the importance of tithing when He spoke to the Pharisees. “He said they should not neglect tithing,” but also reminded them to practice justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). This shows that tithing was never meant to replace love or compassion; rather, it was to be part of a life fully devoted to God. When you love and serve God, you should show it through your actions—like being kind, merciful, and compassionate to others. But giving your tithe (a portion of your income) is also a way to worship God. It shows that your heart truly desires to honour Him, not just with words or feelings, but with your resources too.

In short: Tithing is part of your worship, just like showing love and mercy. It reflects your devotion and trust in God.

2. Principle of Generosity:
Paul reminds believers that giving should come from the heart. In 2 Corinthians 9:6–7, he writes that those who sow generously will reap generously and that God loves a cheerful giver. Tithing, therefore, becomes an expression of joyful obedience and a reflection of God’s generous character.

3. Support for Ministry:
Just as the Levites were supported by the tithes of the people, those who serve in ministry today are sustained by the generosity of believers. Paul explained this in 1 Corinthians 9:13–14, saying that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. Tithing ensures that God’s work continues and that the church remains a place of refuge, teaching, and outreach.

4. Expression of Faith and Trust:
Tithing is a statement of faith that says, “God, I trust You with my resources.” Philippians 4:19 assures believers that God will supply all their needs according to His riches in glory. When we tithe, we declare that our source is not our salary, business proceeds or investments, but our Savior.

5. Kingdom Investment:
Jesus taught in Matthew 6:19–21 that we should lay up treasures in heaven, not on earth. When we tithe, we invest in what truly matters, God’s kingdom. Every soul reached, every life transformed, and every act of kindness supported through our giving becomes eternal fruit credited to our account.

The Heart Behind Tithing

The New Covenant places great emphasis on the heart behind our giving. The story of the widow who gave two small coins (Mark 12:41–44) shows that God values the sacrifice more than the size of the gift. Tithing is an act of worship, not a transaction. Hebrews 13:15–16 reminds us that doing good and sharing with others pleases God.

Tithing under the New Covenant is not about legalism or pressure, it is about love, faith, and gratitude. It is a privilege, not a burden. It opens the windows of heaven over our lives, as promised in Malachi 3:10, and positions us to experience God’s abundant provision and favour.

When we give faithfully, we acknowledge that everything we have belongs to God. Tithing reminds us that God is our provider, and as we honour Him, He multiplies what remains in our hands. Truly, tithing is not outdated, it is a timeless principle that keeps our hearts aligned with God’s will and our lives open to His divine blessings.

Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I turn from my old ways and ask You to forgive me. Come into my heart, be my Lord and Saviour. Fill me with Your Spirit and help me live for You. Thank You for saving me, in Jesus Name. Amen“

Prayer: Father, give me the grace to engage Your law of tithing so that my life will operate under Your open heavens continually, in Jesus Name

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