The Principle of Tithing: Understanding Malachi 3:10-12 in Today’s Church

The Principle of Tithing: Understanding Malachi 3:10-12 in Today’s Church

Tithing, the practice of giving one-tenth of one’s income to the church, is a topic that can evoke a spectrum of sentiments among modern believers. The biblical roots of tithing can be traced back to ancient times as a means to support the Levitical priesthood, maintain the temple, and assist the needy. Yet, its application in contemporary Christian worship often stirs lively discussion. The foundational text for the tithe in the Old Testament is found in Malachi 3:10-12, which states:

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,’ says the LORD Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,’ says the LORD Almighty. ‘Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,’ says the LORD Almighty.”

What Is Tithing?

To tithe is to give a portion, traditionally one-tenth, of one’s earnings back to God as an act of worship and obedience. The roots of tithing are deeply embedded in Judeo-Christian history as a tangible acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty over all things, including our finances.

Malachi’s Message: A Covenant Call

The Prophet Malachi was addressing an Israel that had grown negligent in its covenant responsibilities, including tithes and offerings. His call was a clarion call to return to the ways of the LORD—to honor God not only in word but in action. The invitation to “test” God in this is unique in Scripture, serving as a robust promise of provision and protection.

Tithing in the New Testament

In the New Testament, Jesus mentions tithing in Matthew 23:23, acknowledging it as a practice but underscoring the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness as weightier matters of the law. Thus, while tithing remains a valued discipline, it is enveloped within the greater call to live out God’s love and righteousness.

The Tithe Today: A Matter of the Heart

In today’s context, is tithing still relevant? While New Testament teachings on giving focus more on the attitude of the heart and generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6-7), the principle of tithing continues to be a benchmark that many Christians find instructive and transformative. It teaches discipline in personal finance and instills a pattern of regular, sacrificial giving as a spiritual act.

Stewardship and Trust

Engaging in the practice of tithing cultivates a life of stewardship and trust in God. It is more than a financial transaction; it’s a spiritual discipline that serves to remind us that everything we have is a blessing from God and is meant to be used with wisdom and a purpose that extends beyond our personal needs.

Tithing as Investment in Ministry

By contributing a tithe to the local church, believers participate in its ministry and mission. The church often stands at the front lines of community outreach, pastoral care, evangelism, and acts as a beacon of hope. Tithes enable these vital services to continue and flourish.

The Blessings of Tithing

While contemporary Christians may not experience blessings in an agricultural sense as described in Malachi, the “windows of heaven” are still open to those who give with pure hearts. Blessings come in diverse ways—spiritual growth, a sense of peace, belonging to a community, and seeing the tangible effects of God’s work through the church.

Tithing as a Spiritual Barometer

In bringing our tithes to God, we are invited into a deeper level of trust and dependence on Him. It becomes a spiritual barometer, reflecting the condition of our hearts in relation to our material possessions. Though the methods of giving have evolved with technology and the variety of needs have expanded, the heart of tithing remains the same—to honor God with the “firstfruits” of our labor.

As we reflect on the words of Malachi and examine the practice of tithing, let us consider not just the duty, but the joy and privilege to contribute to God’s work. Tithing is not to be seen as a religious tax but as a way to tangibly express our gratitude to God, to support the body of Christ, and to participate in the kingdom work that has eternal value.