Tithing

Memory Verse: “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house…” Malachi 3:10a.

Scripture: Malachi 3:6-12

Introduction
Payment of tithe is one of the most misunderstood and controversial doctrines, spanning the old and the new testaments, of the Bible. It can be divisive, corrosive and disruptive. It all depends on the understanding, humility and wisdom of the pulpit and the pew. The Bible cannot be simpler or more direct in its teaching on tithe. It predates the Old Testament and continues in the new, down to the present era. It will continue till the very end of time.

The Law
Abraham, one the early patriarchs, paid all his tithes – Gen.14:18-20. As Abraham’s seed, we should follow his footsteps – Gal.3:26-29, Rom.4:12. Jacob, his grandson paid his tithes – Gen.28:16-22. Israel was commanded by God to pay its tithes – Lev.27:3-33, Num.18:21-24. When God-fearing kings ruled and deferred to God, it was always easy to obey God – 2 Chr.31:5-12; Neh.10:37, 13:44; Mal.3:12. The prophets were sent to rebuke, correct and instruct, in absolute terms, the serious consequence of remaining in a rebellious state of disobedience.

Under Grace
The Lord Jesus Christ condemned the Pharisees for their hypocrisy – Mt.6:2, 5:16, Mt.23:13-15. Praying, fasting, giving of alms, witnessing, righteous living and even paying tithes are normal Christian obligations, which are quite elementary and admit of no exemptions. The Lord Jesus Christ classified tithing with mercy, faith and love of God – Mt.23:23. He concluded that neither is optional.

The Blessing
When Christians obey, there will be food in God’s house – Mal.3:10. All devourers will stand rebuked for our sake – Mal.3:11 – and the nations around shall call us blessed – Mal.3:12. The “storehouse” is where you receive spiritual food and nourishment for yourself and others. It is where you get spiritual seed to plant in other hearts. Tithing is one of the lifelines of the Body of Christ and ensures the continuation of the gospel, until it reaches the very end of the world and prepares the ground for the new dispensation.

Conclusion
The tithe does not actually belong to the payer. It is little wonder that non-payers are not merely described as robbers, but robbers of God. It is a grave matter that should be treated with utmost diligence and faithfulness. It is not a coincidence that the calculation is very easy. It is one tenth. Anyone can divide by 10. Receive the grace to be faithful in all things at all time in the mighty name of Jesus.