In the Bible, tithes and offerings are two distinct forms of giving to God. Understanding the differences between the two is important for Christians seeking to honor God through generous and obedient stewardship.
What are Tithes?
The word “tithe” comes from the Old English word “teotha,” meaning “tenth.” Biblically, tithing refers to the practice of giving 10% of one’s income or increase to God. Tithing is an act of worship, expressing thankfulness and faith in God’s provision. As an act of obedience, tithing was instituted by God Himself and was practiced by His people throughout the Bible.
The first mention of tithing is in Genesis 14, when Abraham gave a tenth of all he had recovered in battle to Melchizedek the priest. Later, in Genesis 28, Jacob also vowed to give a tenth to God. Under the Law of Moses, the tithe was formally instituted as a legal requirement for God’s people. Leviticus 27:30 states, “Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s.”
There were actually three tithes outlined for the Israelites in the Old Testament:
- The Levitical tithe (Numbers 18:21, 24) – 10% of the people’s income/increase given to the Levites for their work in the tabernacle/temple.
- The festival tithe (Deuteronomy 14:22-27) – 10% set aside for celebration at the festivals.
- The welfare tithe (Deuteronomy 14:28-29) – 10% every 3 years set aside for the poor and needy.
Together these three tithes equated to about 23% of the Israelites’ annual income. The principle behind the tithe was that everything belongs to God, and His people were to honor Him by giving back a portion of what He had provided them. Observing the tithe showed reverence for God’s provision and care for His people.
What are Offerings?
In the Bible, an offering differs from a tithe in a few key ways:
- It is freewill giving – Offerings were voluntary acts of worship, not required by law like the tithe (Exodus 25:2).
- The amount is undesignated – Whereas the tithe was prescribed as 10%, there was no set requirement for offerings. People gave freely as they purposed in their hearts (2 Corinthians 9:7).
- The purpose is broader – Tithes specifically supported the Levites and temple system. Offerings could meet a wider variety of needs.
There are many examples of offerings in Scripture:
- Cain and Abel gave offerings to the Lord from their work (Genesis 4:3-5).
- The Israelites gave freewill offerings of valuable metals and jewels for the construction of the tabernacle (Exodus 25:1-9).
- David gave offerings to purchase materials to build the temple (1 Chronicles 29:6-9).
- Mary and Joseph gave an offering after Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:22-24).
- The Philippian church supported Paul’s missionary work through their “gift of fellowship” (Philippians 4:10-18).
In these instances, offerings provided resources for worship facilities, supported religious leaders, and met pressing needs. The main purpose was to honor God by generously supporting His work and people.
Tithes vs. Offerings – Key Differences
Looking at tithes and offerings throughout Scripture, we observe the following key differences:
Tithes | Offerings |
---|---|
– Required by God’s law (Malachi 3:10) | – Freewill giving (2 Corinthians 9:7) |
– 10% of income/increase (Leviticus 27:30) | – No set amount (Mark 12:41-44) |
– Given to Levites/priests (Numbers 18:21) | – Used for wider purposes (Exodus 25:1-9) |
– Form of worship through obedience | – Form of worship through generosity |
Are Tithes and Offerings Still Relevant Today?
The commands about tithing applied specifically to the Israelites under the Mosaic Law. Through Christ’s death, we are no longer bound by the requirements of the law (Romans 10:4). As New Testament believers, we are called to more radical generosity than simply 10%. Rather than tithe by obligation, we have the joy of giving freely and abundantly to the work of the gospel as the Spirit leads us (2 Corinthians 8-9). Offerings continue, while tithing as a mandate has passed away.
While the 10% tithe is not mandated, the principles behind it still apply. All we have comes from God, and He desires that we use it generously for His kingdom. As we give cheerfully, diligently, proportionately, and sacrificially, we reflect His generous nature. Through directing our resources toward worship, supporting ministers, and meeting needs, we store up eternal rewards in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).
The key distinction is that New Covenant giving springs from love and grace, not law and compulsion. We demonstrate Christlike character when we give freely and unconditionally to those in need (Acts 20:35). While giving a tithe could be legalistic, we fulfill the spirit of tithing through offerings given in joyful response to Christ’s love.
In summary, tithes and offerings both reflect worshipful stewardship and play an important role in God’s work. One was required giving, the other voluntary. Tithes narrower in scope, offerings broad. By giving generously in the New Covenant without specific percentage mandates, our motives come from internal devotion rather than external obligation. Freely we have received, freely we give (Matthew 10:8).
As God’s grace transforms our hearts, we become more like Christ in selfless generosity. Giving in His kingdom advances richly as we respond to His amazing gift of salvation with both tithes and offerings from grateful hearts.