1 Corinthians 9:3-18; 1 Thesseloninas 5:12
“Do I say these things as a mere man? Or does not the law say the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain.” Is it oxen God is concerned about? Or does He say it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written, that he who plows should plow in hope, and he who threshes in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things? If others are partakers of this right over you, are we not even more”?
Recently, there’s been a lot of buzz about tithing. Different folks present varied perspectives on this subject – some schools of thought uphold the notion that tithing is an old testament practice, and not necessarily required in this day and age. Some other schools of thought maintain the argument that tithing should not be paid in the church; but rather given to the poor and needy.
Some people nurse the impression that 10 percent is on the high side, so people should give whatever they can, based on their income. Others propose the view that tithing should be paid as a matter of convenience – not obligation. These (and many more) conflicting perspectives drive the buzz of disagreement among Christians as it relates to the issue of tithing.
The impression I seem to get from all the ongoing arguments is that our perspectives are muddled up. The cases presented at different times amount to a mish mash of false doctrines and unbelief, wrapped around a depraved understanding of Biblical principles and truth.
Before sharing further on this subject, it is paramount that I declare my stand on the subject of tithing – I believe in tithing as outlined in the Bible (Leviticus 27 30-34; Numbers 18:21, 26; Deuteronomy 12:5-6; 14: 22-29; Malachi 3:8-10). My belief and perspective on this matter is firmly rooted in the interpretation of God’s word as led by the Holy Spirit.
Running a church has some financial implications; bills have to be paid, equipment purchased/maintained, people in need have to be catered for, etc. – how does a church fulfill its financial obligations without tithes and offerings? As long as we derive some benefits from an organization, we should make financial contributions as a natural response to support its financial obligations – Paul touched on this salient point in 1 Corinthians 9: 3-14.
As observed, the biggest issue against the concept of tithing stems from the concern of disbursement and administration. Some folks have argued that the church leaders get ‘fat’ from the tithe donations – living a very flashy life style at the expense of their congregation. I choose to not contribute to this debate; so cannot denounce or defend this argument. However, my focus is on obedience to God’s command; and leaving the question of misuse to HIM who judges in righteousness.
Those who labor over us are worthy of honor; and deserve to be catered for – paying our tithes will ensure this. However, it is not appropriate for church leaders to guilt or coerce people into giving; God loves a cheerful giver. Tithing is a matter of the heart, and being coerced into doing this removes the blessings of a natural response to God’s love and all that HE is!