Tithing as a Testament of Faith: Abraham’s Offering to Melchizedek
We begin with Abraham, the father of faith, who encountered Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of the Most High God, after a mighty victory. “And he gave him a tenth of everything” (Genesis 14:20). This instance marks the first recorded tithe, unfolding within the Bronze Age, a time of tribal conflicts and burgeoning civilizations. Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek was more than a tribute; it was a declaration of faith in God as his true King and Provider. In presenting our own tithes, we echo Abraham’s acknowledgment that all we possess is a blessing from the Almighty, and we demonstrate our reliance on Him above any earthly power.
The Joy of Generosity: The Early Church’s Example
The early Christian church illustrated the joy and unity that accompanies collective generosity. “There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet” (Acts 4:34-35). This act took place during the nascent years of the Roman Empire, where society’s hierarchy often dictated one’s ability to give. Yet, in stark contrast, the community of believers joyfully contributed to ensure no one was in want, transcending social divisions. Today, this model inspires us to foster a church environment where the joy of giving is celebrated and shared, fulfilling the practical needs within and beyond the church walls.
The Discipline of Giving: The Principle of Firstfruits
Tithing is also an exercise in discipline, a theme articulated through the principle of firstfruits. “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce” (Proverbs 3:9).
The wisdom literature of Solomon, written in a time of Israel’s wealth and wisdom, teaches the discipline of honoring God with the first and the best. This principle serves as a tangible lesson in prioritizing God in our finances, encouraging the modern church member to view tithing as a first response rather than an afterthought, thus shaping a life ordered around God’s precepts and promises.
The Multiplication of Resources: The Feeding of the Five Thousand
The miraculous feeding of the five thousand, with just five loaves and two fish, demonstrates God’s ability to multiply our resources (John 6:11). Within a first-century context of subsistence living, the boy’s offering signified a sacrifice potentially equal to a day’s meal. Yet, Jesus took this modest contribution and used it to provide abundantly for all. This miracle teaches us that our offerings, no matter how small they may seem, are divinely used to bring forth bounty. Our tithes, faithfully given, contribute to the expansion of ministry and the care for others, revealing the multiplying effect of obedience.
The Blessing of Provision: The Promise in Malachi
Malachi, delivering God’s message during the Persian Empire’s rule—a time when Israel was grappling with issues of identity and faithfulness—presented a challenge and a promise. “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need” (Malachi 3:10). This exhortation reassures us that in giving, we are not depleting ourselves but trusting in God’s unwavering provision. As we educate church members on this promise, we cultivate an atmosphere of expectancy, where giving becomes an opportunity to witness the faithfulness of God firsthand.
In understanding the biblical and historical significance of tithing, we also comprehend its modern-day implications. Tithing instills discipline, expresses faith, fosters communal unity, enables ministry work, and invokes God’s blessings. As believers living in the 21st century, let the act of tithing be more than a tradition; let it be a transformative experience that deepens our faith, promotes God’s work, and spreads His blessings, mirroring the practices of righteous men and women who came before us.
The practices of tithing and generosity, dating back to ancient times, hold enduring value for us. Each act of giving is a seed planted with the potential to grow into a lush tree under which others can find shelter and sustenance. As you educate your church on the joy and necessity of tithing, do so from a place of understanding and expectation, so that together, you can reap a harvest of generosity that glorifies God and enriches His people.
