Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; In Genesis 14, and blessed Abraham. In response, Abraham gave him a tithe.
This is a beautiful parallel, and it truly helps new believers and those with misconceptions about the law of tithing understand the heart of tithing from a biblical perspective.
Let’s explore it step by step from Genesis 14 and connect it to our worship today.
The Genesis 14 Narrative
Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, brought out bread and wine and blessed Abraham (Genesis 14:18–19).
In response, Abraham gave him a tithe of all (Genesis 14:20).
Here we see two actions:
- God blesses first – through Melchizedek’s blessing and provision.
- Abraham responds – by giving a tithe as an act of honour and worship.
What can we learn from this narrative?
- God blesses us first.
Every good thing we have; life, health, joy, family, job, career, business, ministry, provision, opportunities, favour, influence, comes from God.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 NKJV).
- Our response as believers of Christ Jesus is worship through giving.
Just as Abraham gave a tithe after receiving blessing, we give back to God from what He has already given us.
Tithing is not about paying God, but honouring Him as the source of all blessings.
“Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase.” (Proverbs 3:9 NKJV).
- Bread and wine also point to Christ.
Melchizedek brought bread and wine, symbols later fulfilled in Jesus Christ at the Last Supper.
This shows that our giving is always in response to the greatest gift in the universe that God gave us; Jesus Christ Himself.
- Tithing models gratitude and trust.
Abraham attacked and obtained victory against four powerful eastern kings led by Chedorlaomer. Therefore, Abraham’s tithe was a declaration: “God Most High is the One who gave me victory.”
Our tithe declares: “God is my provider, and I honour Him with the first part of my increase.”
Practical Application in Your Life
- When God blesses you with income, provision, or opportunities, your tithe is a way of saying thank You.
- It shifts your heart from ownership to stewardship, you recognise that everything belongs to God.
- It becomes an act of worship, not obligation.
Final Remark
Dear friend, the story of Abraham and Melchizedek shows that tithing flows out of blessing. God blesses first, and we respond with honour, gratitude, and worship.
Just as Abraham gave a tithe after receiving blessing, we give our tithe today as a declaration that God is our source and we trust Him with all we have.
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-Declaration: Holy Spirit, please give me the grace to be faithful in paying my tithe. And as I give my tithe from an attitude of worship to God, let heaven always remain open over my life and family, in Jesus Name. Amen
Feast of Light Word Ministry
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