When Did the Church Start Tithing Money Instead of Objects?
When Did The Church Start Tithing Money Instead Of Objects
Tithing is a more nuanced doctrine than one may realize.
It is important to keep in mind three things when seeking to understand the biblical concept of tithing:
1) “God loves a cheerful giver” –2 Corinthians 9:7
2) Believers are not commanded to pay tithes because God needs our money
3) Biblical stewardship is more about putting God first than giving God one-tenth of our income.
This article will profile the history of tithing and God's expectations regarding giving tithes and offerings in support of today's Christian Church.
History of Tithing
The history of tithing predates Moses, the Law, and the Patriarchs.
In Genesis 4, we see that Cain and Abel were accustomed to giving God the first fruits (the first and best portion) of what they had. At this point in history, there were no clear stipulations regarding a tithing system, but freewill offerings were common.
First fruits stemmed from vocation: Cain was a hunter, so he brought meat as an offering. Abel was a farmer, so he brought in fruits/vegetables as an offering. In Genesis 4, God commended Abel because his offering represented his best—Cain’s offering was not ,and therefore was rejected by the Lord. The practice of giving to God is presented as being a foundational part of Cain and Abel’s life—a tradition likely passed down to them from Adam and Eve.
Honoring God by giving back to God is simply common sense. The idea was/is to recognize that God created all—God owns all—and that all we have has come to us as a gift from God. We are simply stewards of the resources He aids us to earn or acquire.
By Genesis 12 and the Abraham story, we evidently see the word tithe and a tithe system were well known in the ancient world. In Genesis 14–the first instance of a tithe in Scripture–Abraham is visited by a mysterious figure named Melchizedek, a priest and king of Salem (forerunner to Jerusalem). Abraham honors Melchizedek by giving him a tithe “of everything” he had. Here we see the first example of the give-one-tenth principle.
Roughly 600 years later, the Mosaic Law codified the practice of paying tithes. The Jewish Law specified that one-tenth of one’s income was to support the Levitical priesthood, and one-tenth was to support the Tabernacle (later, the Jewish temple) and state. If you’re keeping score at home, Jews were expected to give more than 20% of their annual income to the Lord, not just 10%!
The New Testament Church and New Covenant moved away from strict observance of the Law but maintained the spirit of the law and the principle of giving. Many in the early church (see Acts 2 and Acts 4) gave all they had so that church leaders could meet needs and fund missionary efforts. Gentile Christians were encouraged to sacrificially give to Jews in need. In the early church, sacrificial giving became synonymous with the Christian community and spiritual maturity.
The Roman government attempted, without great success, to draw on the Christian call to give to manipulate members of the Christian Church to give offerings to their pagan, Roman gods. Pergamum, Sardis, and Rome (all mentioned in the book of Revelation) were cities where Christians were at first encouraged to honor, then forced to honor Roman gods via the giving of offerings. Those who refused were ostracized, imprisoned, or martyred for their faith.
Many churches today receive financial gifts and material resources from church members. Gifting of cars, homes, food, clothing, and various care items are common, and often given to those in need or to church leaders so they can advance the ministry of the church and community.
When Did the Church Start Tithing Money Instead of Objects?
The Old Covenant and customs was superseded by the New Covenant.
The foundational teaching of the New Testament Church is that Jesus Christ is the only means for salvation. The books of Galatians and Romans emphasize that Jesus’ death on the cross represents the final sacrifice and the end of the Old Covenant sacrificial system. Therefore, though God’s Church embraces the teachings of the Old Testament and spirit of the Mosaic Law, traditions surrounding animal and temple sacrifices and offerings are replaced with encouragements to provide a financial tithe to support the work of the Church.
The financial tithe, commanded in Malachi 3, was viewed by early New Testament leaders as a commandment of God, a mark of spiritual maturity, and God’s expectation for all church members. However, new covenant believers do not view giving a financial tithe as a means for salvation or a requisite in securing forgiveness. Faith before works.
Jewish Christians during this time transitioned from giving animal and grain offerings to providing a financial offering to help meet the many needs in the rapidly expanding New Testament Church
The early Christian Church incorporated giving during their times of worship and petitioned believers to help raise money for those in need. Receiving special offerings to support missionary work and to assist those facing persecution or suffering from famine is duly noted in the book of Acts.
A study of Church history reveals that early creeds and doctrinal statements arising from important gatherings of Christian leaders (such as the Council of Tours in 567 A.D., and the Third Council of Mâcon in 585 A.D.) encouraged ministry leaders to teach tithing to their congregants. The Christian faith holds that those who give generously to support God’s work will be blessed by God, in the here-and-now, and in the age to come (1 Corinthians 3:11-15).
Modern Christians believe that providing financial support to a church or ministry is important and biblical. However, all this to say, is that studies show the percentage of Christians who consistently pay tithes is low. An informal study done by this author by asking various senior pastors estimates tithing congregants to just be around 20-30% of the entire church.
What Does the Roman Catholic Church Say About Tithing?
The Roman Catholic Church encourages generous and cheerful giving, and has a long history of providing financial support for various missionary and humanitarian endeavors. Being the largest non-profit aid in the world–Mother Teresa’s outstanding work in India is a case in point–necessitates great giving to fund such.
In short, the Catholic Church (and Eastern Orthodox Church too) encourage generous giving but do not mandate what some call a Testament tithe.
The Catholic encyclopedia notes that through the ages, giving to the Roman Catholic Church has funded centers of learning—seminaries, monasteries, and universities–around the world. They believe God is honored by sacrificial giving of time and money.
Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches also encourage giving in support of special offerings. Through the ages, this has included a widow’s fund, a piety’s deposit fund, scholarship funds, a bury poor people fund, a poor tithe, and a general benevolence fund. These funds are typically overseen by parish church leaders charged to oversee meeting special needs in their community.
What Does Jesus Christ Say About Tithing?
In general, most Protestant churches hold that Scriptural principles are timeless and it is mandatory that leaders of the church teach tithing. Protestants believe the spirit of the Mosaic law was fulfilled in Christ, and though the sacrifice of animals is no longer required, the payment of tithes is—as it reminds the giver to thank, honor, and rely on God—particularly in the area of finances.
Most churches encourage but do not mandate a tithe, and encourage giving to special or freewill offerings throughout the year.
When Jesus spoke of honoring God and giving, He spoke of honoring God with “all our heart, all our mind, and all our strength.” –Luke 10:27. During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke of giving more than what is asked, and without the thought of repayment. The Lord's sacrifice on the cross is emblematic of the call to give all. This sentiment was echoed by the church fathers. Irenaeus, for example, in the 2nd century A.D., wrote: “Christians who have liberty assign all their possessions to the Lord bestowing freely not the lesser portions of their property since they have the hope of greater things.”
Who Was the First Tithe Payer in the Bible?
Melchizedek, a priest, king, and type or foreshadow of Christ, was the first in the Bible to receive a tithe offering. Genesis 14 notes that Abraham gave Melchizedek a tithe of “all he had,” not because it was God’s command, but because it was a proper way to honor one of supreme importance who had extended a blessing to him.
As Melchizedek points to Christ, paying tithes to Christ, through His Church today, is good and honoring to God.
Who Invented Tithing?
Tithing, in a nutshell, is a facet of expressing gratitude to God for all He has given to humanity. The originator of love and giving is God. To give back to God is a reflection and acknowledgment of the goodness of God.
The term tithe, and the formal tithing system that developed in the days of Moses, were designed as guidelines to help humanity remember the importance of trusting in, relying on, and thanking God, for everything.
Jesus Christ modeled giving (see Matthew 17:24-27), and to be a Christian is to be Christ-like in both how we live, and how we give.
Where Did the Idea of Tithing Come From?
Refresher: the Bible was written in Hebrew and Greek, not English.
As translations progressed in the 16th century, the term tithe comes from the Old English teogothian, meaning, “tenth.” The Mosaic law codified the principle of tithing and giving special offerings. These gifts were given to the priests, who allocated funds for spiritual work, the welfare of the people, and national needs.
In Old Testament times, a kind of ecclesiastical law required all members of the Jewish faith to tithe (and give above 10% to various special offerings and needs throughout the year). Inheriting the promised land, caring for the people, and providing for Temple and religious leaders required 100% support from 100% of the people. All were expected to tithe.
In sum, the rigidity of the tithe eased for the first three centuries of the church, tightened between the 4th and 16th centuries, and eased again after the Protestant Reformation. Giving in most churches today is not rigid or structured, but believers are called to remember the giving principle and that the local church is dependent on the faithful and generous giving of congregants.
When Was Tithing Integrated into the Church?
There is some dispute on this point, but many biblical scholars believe the idea of tithing was carried over from Old Testament practices in general and Malachi 3 in particular. In Acts 2 and 4, the idea of whole life stewardship is evident as individuals were moved to sell their possessions and give the proceeds to the disciples so their needs could be met and the ministry of the church expanded.
The idea of identifying and using one’s spiritual gift for the glory of God is noted in Scripture in 1 Corinthians 12-14, Ephesians 4, Romans 12, and 1 Peter 4. This service is a sacrifice of time and part of one’s offering to the Lord.
In Revelation 12, the prayers of believers rise up as an offering of incense to the Lord. Praying too, is an act of service and part of one’s offering to the Lord.
In the early church, giving was abundant, and formal statements on the matter were not needed. Between the 4th and 16th centuries, several Emperors of the Roman Empire, including Popes, Kings and Holy Roman Empire leaders (e.g., Constantine, Charlemagne, Pope Gregory VII, Pope Innocent III, King Pepin III) played roles–good or bad–in prompting Christians to give. From taxes to mandatory tithes, to “indulgences,” leaders seemed to at times, simultaneously maintain the godly principle of giving while corrupting the spirit of what God intended for the tithe.
Ecclesiastical law that mandated tithing was not formalized until the Council of Macon in 585 A.D. For centuries, those who did not tithe could be ex-communicated from the church. Following the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, Catholic and Protestant Churches adopted less stringent positions on giving.
Was Money Used as Tithe in the Bible?
Giving a tithe is about giving the first or best part of what you have to God. This is an expression of love and appreciation for how He has blessed humanity.
In Old Testament Times, people gave money, gold, silver, jewelry, animals, wine, and crops as offerings to the Lord. There were guidelines for what to give and when, but the main focus was giving one’s best to express their sincere gratitude to the Lord.
Leaders of the Greek and Roman Empire established uniform money systems and before the birth of Christ, the giving of gold, silver, and brass coins in support of God's work was common.
In modern times, money is the quintessential currency, thus giving money is the easiest way to give and support the work of God’s Church. But as mentioned previously, churches are blessed by the offering of services and items (food, automobiles, clothing, music and office equipment, labor, etc.) that support the church's ministry. Giving time and investments of service are also worthy ways to give unto the Lord.
Is Money the Only Way to Tithe?
Yes, money is the only way to tithe.
However, the New Testament communicates that one finds purpose in also giving time, care, love, service, prayer support, and material support, in addition to money. We are blessed by God so we can bless others. We are gifted by the Spirit so we can serve others and support the ministry of the Church. The principle of the tithe is a principle of giving. Tithing is intended to be a base benchmark, not the ultimate goal. We find purpose and joy in life when we find ways to give, share, help, and love for the glory of God.
Why Did God Say We Should Pay Tithes?
There are three primary reasons God instructed His followers to give
- It reminds the giver that all comes from God and the Lord can be trusted with (and is honored by) what we give back to Him. Giving is, in essence, an act of faith.
- It supports the Kingdom’s work. God does not need our help or provision—He graciously allows us to share in important Kingdom work that has eternal value. What we do and give in support of the Lord’s work on earth will be rewarded by the Lord when we join Him in heaven. For believers, giving is not a have to, it is a get to. Indeed, it is an honor to be counted worthy to join Him in His work.
- Those who give, receive (“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” –Acts 20:15). God invites and encourages His people to give because He knows that the more we give, the more He can reveal Himself to us, work through us, and bless us.
What Does God Say About Tithing When in Debt?
Giving to God and getting out of debt are actually connected, contrary to common sense! Giving to God is linked to faithfulness, and those who are faithful to God will be blessed by God. Scripture cautions against debt. Those in debt should realize there is seldom a quick fix—but can be encouraged that consistent and God-honoring steps can put you back on solid ground.
There are many spiritual principles that seem to run counter to the logic of the world. For example: If you want to be first, you must be willing to be last; if you want honor, you must humble yourself; if you want to receive, you must be willing to give. These spiritual principles have been true for millennia, though they are not embraced by many in the world today. Biblical counsel regarding dealing with debt may not seem like the best advice, but God's way is always the best way.
Regarding tithing and debt, if you find yourself in debt, Scripture counsels one to:
- Pray and ask others to pray for you
- Work hard and do what you can to pay off the debt (spend less, work more, and sell what you can)
- Seek wise (spiritual) financial counsel
- Communicate with creditors
- Make regular payments to creditors—small but consistent payments are better than larger but inconsistent payments
- Continue giving to God as this indicates your gratitude for His provision and trust that He will see you through
- Do everything Dave Ramsey tells you to do :)
Does the Bible Say Tithing is Money?
The Bible notes that believers should set aside their first and best part and give that to the Lord. This implies money, but though money is specifically noted in Scripture, the spiritual tithe is about much more.
Money has become the litmus test for spiritual maturity. If one can be faithful in giving the first portion of their money to the Lord, they are likely to be faithful in giving their time, love, counsel, help, etc., in support of the work of the Lord’s Church (its ministry and people).
How Much Should You Tithe Each Week?
Studies show that Christians spend more on lottery tickets or dog food and coffee (looking your way, Starbucks!) than they give to their local church. Though believers live under the covenant of grace and salvation is found in Christ—not the law—believers will find many blessings when giving to the Lord.
Ecclesiastical law does not require individuals to give ten percent of their net or gross income. Scripture notes that God loves a cheerful giver. Those who seek the smile and favor of God should be quick to embrace the spiritual principle of giving—give your money, give your time, give your heart, and give a tithe. Give generously and you will be blessed.
Why is Tithing Not Mentioned in the New Testament?
This is a big counterargument from those who believe tithing is not required of a New Covenant believer.
Jesus references tithing in three times in the gospels (Luke 11 and 18, and Matthew 23). While he mentions it, he’s actually condemning the Pharisees who exhibit right actions but have bad motives. Still, the Lord says one should still tithe.
However, later in the New Testament, Paul oddly instructs the Corinthians to not tithe, but instead to decide what to give according to their heart’s inclination (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Do these sound paradoxical?
Keep in mind, several key doctrines are not specifically mentioned in our English Bible translations—but they are accepted because Bible scholars believe the foundation for these doctrines are clearly delineated in Scripture.
For example, the word missions is not in the Bible; the word hell is not in the Bible; the word Trinity is not in the Bible; the word Rapture is not in the Bible. Yet Church leaders believe Scripture provides strong support in principle for these teachings.
In the same way, Eastern Orthodox churches, the Catholic Church, Evangelical and other Protestant churches believe the principle of giving to the Lord—and giving a tithe—has a firm foundation in Scripture, primarily in the Old Testament.
Should We Tithe?
Absolutely, yes, Christians should give.
Should their giving be a tithe?
More likely than not, yes, it should.
The mantra, live to give to God should be in the mind and heart of every believer.
When we give, God is honored, the work of the Church is supported, and the giver is blessed. The word tithe is a specific term indicating giving 10% to God. This article notes there are many ways to give, but that the tithe is presented as a financial baseline for how to live for God.
Those faithful in giving and tithing will find joy and purpose in life and be well-positioned to grow in the faith.
