What does the Bible say about tithing?

Mar 3 / Evan Lee



Tithing, or giving a tenth of one’s income, is a concept mentioned in several places throughout the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament, but also in the New Testament in a broader context of generosity.

In the Old Testament, the idea of tithing was introduced as a command in the Mosaic Law. For example:

  • Leviticus 27:30 says: “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.” This establishes the practice of giving a tenth of one's produce or income to God.


  • Malachi 3:10 famously 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.” This passage emphasizes the faith and trust that tithing demonstrates, and it is often cited as a promise of God’s blessings for faithful giving.

Tithes and Offering Bible Verses

Here are some key Bible verses that address both tithes and offerings:

Tithes:

  • Deuteronomy 14:22-23 – "Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always."


  • Proverbs 3:9-10 – "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine."

Offerings:

  • 2 Corinthians 9:7 – "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

  • Luke 21:1-4 – "As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 'Truly I tell you,' he said, 'this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.'"

  • Exodus 25:2 – “Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering. You are to receive the offering for me from everyone whose heart prompts them to give."


  • Philippians 4:18 – "I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God."

The Bible teaches that tithing is a principle of honoring God with one's wealth, but the New Testament emphasizes generosity, willing hearts, and faithfulness in giving, rather than adhering strictly to a percentage.

As we reflect on the biblical call to tithe and give generously, we’re reminded of how God blesses faithfulness. At Advance the Faith, we are committed to fostering cultures of discipleship, and service, spreading the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it. But we can’t do it alone.

Just as God calls us to give with cheerful hearts, we invite you to partner with us today. Your donation fuels transformative programs, equips mentors, and touches countless lives with the hope of the gospel. Will you prayerfully consider giving to support this mission?

Thank you for your faithfulness!
Meet the blogger

Jennifer Hand

Jennifer is the co-founder of Advance the Faith and the Advance the Faith Academy. She has over 15 years mentoring and coaching women of all ages. She is especially passionate about serving youth as they age out of foster care and discipling young adults. Jenn is currently pursuing her Masters of Counseling Psychology at Moody Theological Seminary. In her free time she loves cooking, reading and being outdoors. 
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