What Does God Say? The Truth About Tithing. Is It Always About Money?

Most of us are aware of the passage from Acts 20:35 where Paul is quoting Jesus as saying ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ We know from experience that we feel satisfaction and joy when we give, and most of us would like to give more than we have been able to. But are we under scriptural obligation to give a certain amount, and is it always about money? Really, what is the truth about tithing, and what does God say about giving in general?

Some church authorities teach that tithing is required by God and to be given only to the church. Some say that additional monies can be given to other worthy causes but is not part of your tithe. Other churches say whatever you can give is good enough for God. Some say you should only give to churches or Christian organizations. Some say they do not have to give of their money, but of their time and that’s enough. Others say you do not honor God unless what you give is a sacrifice. But what does God really say? How do we give to God and are Christians obliged to tithe today?

By tradition, a tithe is considered 10% of a person’s income. Most people point to the origin of the tithe as beginning with the Israelites in the Old Testament with the priestly sons of Aaron and the Levities who helped them. They were divinely gifted a tithe of all the Israelite’s agricultural offerings to God. This was so they would be able to keep living and yet fulfill their responsibilities for taking care of God-appointed tasks (Numbers 18:1-32). The Israelites were a pastoral people and the twelve tribes were to inherit land from God, but the Lord said to Aaron, “You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any share among them; I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites.” (vs.20) God also stated the Levites would have no inheritance in the land, but would receive the tithe in return for the work they did. (vs. 21,31) Of that tithe the Levites received they were also required to give 10% - a tithe of a tithe. (vs.26)

These were Divine obligations of law that the entire nation, the “descendants of Jacob,” were to obey. There were direct cause-and-effect upon the Israelite people for meeting the requirements of tithing. If they did not provide for the Levities in charge of the Tent of Meeting and the high priests, “the word of the Lord to Israel through Malachi” said that not giving tithes and offerings were the same as robbing God. However, if they did meet the requirements, all the land would see good benefits. “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 you will not have room enough for it.” (Malachi 1-4) All these things were directed specifically to the Israelites, the descendants of Jacob under the Law of Moses.

However, we are not under the Mosaic Law any longer. We are under a new covenant of grace, through the priesthood of Christ. Hebrews 7:11-8:2 says in part “Now the law (italics mine) requires the descendants of Levi who become priests to collect a tenth from the people – that is, their brothers – even though their brothers are descended from Abraham.” (vs.5) “If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the law was given to the people), why was there still need for another priest to come – one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron?” (vs. 11) “For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.” (vs.14) “For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever. The point of what we are saying is this: “We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by man.” (vs.8:1,2) Christ fulfilled the laws of the old covenant, “For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance – now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.” (Hebrews 9:15)

But are there any examples of tithing that predate the old law? Yes, earlier in the Old Testament, before the Mosaic Law came into being, we also see a tithe being offered, this time by Abraham to Melchizedek. “Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed be God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.” (Genesis 14:18-20) So are we required to follow that? Melchizedek was not only a priest, but also a king, and a tenth was considered a king’s share. It was not uncommon in early non-Israelite cities for kingly and priestly duties to be performed by the same person. Later, Samuel solemnly warned Israel when they asked him to “appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have,” that among other things, the king “…will take a tenth of your grain and of your vintage and give it to his officials and attendants.” (1 Samuel 8:11-22)

Abraham had many kings come out to visit him, but we do not see him offering ten percent to any other one, so we see that he did not consider it a mandatory response for a royal visit. Nor did he see the gift as a requirement of living on Melchizedek’s land or under his authority in some way. However, he gave nonetheless. Abraham’s response to Melchizedek showed he identified with him as being a priest that served the Lord he himself knew, and his gifting was a joyful act directed to God, not made out of compulsion or a written law. Melchizedek is later spoken of as prefiguring the heavenly king Jesus Christ whose priesthood was not in the order of Aaron but “in the order of Melchizedek.” (Psalms 110:4)

While Jesus was on earth we see him accusing the teachers of the Mosaic Law and Pharisees of hypocrisy in their tithing because they were not practicing what they preached. Outwardly they were only minutely obeying what was required: “You give a tenth of your spices…but you have neglected the more important matter of the law – justice, mercy and faithfulness.” (Matthew 23:23). In fact, knowing that he would soon be fulfilling the old law, Jesus summed up the deeper meaning of what God had been teaching through the Law by pointing towards the bigger picture of love. “One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:28-31) Paul repeated this in Romans as well: “The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Roman 13:9-10)

Christ also showed that giving to God is not always about giving money. Remember that even in the beginning, the original form of tithing was the sharing of one’s goods, such as agriculture and farm animals. Jesus underscored that with the Pharisees when they asked: “Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” Jesus then asked to be shown the coin used for paying the tax, and he asked them, “Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away.”(Matthew 22:15-22) One of the lessons Jesus was teaching was that mere coin was not what pleased God, but that there were other ways Father could be gifted. Something even as small as giving a cup of water to one in need, gives to God. (Matthew 10:42) And when a costly jar of perfume was poured on Jesus’ head instead of it being sold to the poor, he said it was “a beautiful thing to me.” (Matthew 26: 6-13)

Giving was not always about money, but in gifting what the person had that could benefit others, including sharing Divine supernatural gifts given by the Holy Spirit. ^“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11) Eagerly sharing was exemplified by Christ’s apostles who were a role model for all who received Divine gifts, such as healing a begging man who was crippled from birth. “Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” (Acts 3:1-10)

What are we to give to those in the ministry work? In the New Testament we see the first Christians making freewill offerings without a specific amount required, and giving freely without written law and without compulsion, to aid distressed Christians in Jerusalem. Paul talked about this in 1 Corinthians 16:1: “Now about the collection for God’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.” Besides material gifting, we also see the awareness of giving time to those who wanted to teach more about Christ so the word of God may spread. “In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” This proposal pleased the whole group…So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” (Acts 6:1-7, NIV) “Give double honor to spiritual leaders who handle their duties well. This is especially true if they work hard at teaching the word of God. After all, Scripture says, "Never muzzle an ox when it is threshing grain,” and “The worker deserves his pay.” (1Timothy 5:17, 18 GWT)

Indeed, Father Billy and I would not be able to write these articles or survive in the healing and deliverance ministries if it were not for the tenderness and compassion that continues to motivate hearts to gift us with food, money and places to live. And we personally see this blessing as an obligation to lead simple lives with simple needs, so not to put undue pressure upon anyone. “For God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.” (Romans 11:29) Even so, this is personally what both of us were called to do, and it is not required by all people of faith, we each have different purposes in the Divine love of God.

For those called to lead a simple life, God has often relied upon the response of people to his Spirit moving upon them to provide for the needs of his ministers. “When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He told them: “Take nothing for the journey – no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town, as a testimony against them.” So they set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere.” (Luke 9:1-6) “Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered.” (Luke 22:35) “Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.” (Luke 12:22-31)

Is giving only honorable to God if it is a sacrifice to do it, if it is almost more than affordable? Some point to this scripture as proof of that. “Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything – all she had to live on.” (Mark 12:41-44) Jesus was teaching many lessons with this – including that God does not look not at the amount given, but the faith shown. This falls in accord with the lessons given in many other scriptures. For example, Paul was encouraged by the rich generosity of the Macedonian churches who helped the Christians in Jerusalem, and shared with the Corinthian church what they had done: “And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.” (2 Corinthians 8:1-4) Yet Paul did not ask for the same amount of donation that the Macedonian churches gave, but encouraged the same spirit of earnestness and love in what the Corinthians offered. For they had previously started to gather a donation for those in Jerusalem, but had not brought it to completion. “Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have (italics mine). Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality.” (2 Corinthians 8:7-13)

We are not asked to be in debt so that others may be out of debt, or to starve so that others may eat. God does not require this for our gifts to be honorable to him, but to be aware of treating others how we wish to be treated. “…in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” (Matthew 7:12, Luke 6:31) We are always to choose love over fear, and not worry about storing up amounts of items for ourselves (Mark 12:13-21), and conversely, not to sow in a way that puts us in a place of lack and need. It is about awareness of equality, and giving to others as they have the need, and receiving from others as we ourselves have the need, and to do neither without guilt, but with a cheerful heart. “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) Even with the daily gathering of the manna in the desert during the Israelites forty years of wandering, “He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little.” (Exodus 16:17,18; 2 Corinthians 8:15) There was an equal distribution made so that the young and strong who might have collected more could share with the aged and weak. The extra of some was a ministry of blessing for the deficiency of others, yet both were expected to work to the full ability they were able, which is each one’s “full measure.” This is the true meaning of: “For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38) We are to do our utmost in what we put our hand to do, and this only has to do with only our own personal ability, not in regard to competition with what others may do or give.

Many churches today strongly imply a “prosperity-theology” that if sacrificial gifting is made, or tithing given whether a person is able to or not, that this ensures that God will make sure to not only give back the amount that was given, but to greatly increase it. These churches may even promote letters or testimonies of members who received a raise at work, an unexpected check in the mail, or other financial wind-fall. Some of these churches go so far as to teach that God blesses those who tithe and curses those who don’t. But what about those who don’t receive the boon they were expecting? This can lead to many problems that can damage faith, including thinking they are not good enough to be heard by God, or promoting suspicion between mates about undisclosed sinful practices. Outsiders are often quick to blame a lack of faith or a variety of moral failures. But is this correct? While we all know it feels good to give, whether through money, materials or time, we also know deep in our hearts that it is not about how good we are, but about how good God is. If we believe a prosperity-theology, we set ourselves up for attack by the unHoly fallen Angels. We become a prime target for expecting only good to happen to us in an evil world. We are not Christians because it makes our life easier – we are Christians because we love God and desire him. This was one of the original issues that Satan brought up about Job and all of mankind, that we only come to God out of what we can get from him. (Job 1:1-12) However, when we love God we do not treat him like a celestial Santa Claus that we expect gifts from for being good throughout the year. The serenity and peace that comes from doing God’s will and helping one another is a spiritual reward in itself, and one that God blesses how he sees fit, which may not be the same way we think it ought to be. It is not always about material things. We must not think that we can bribe God by giving. Our personal relationship with our heavenly Father is based on so much more than this.

Are we to give only to Christian organizations? No. Reflecting the love of Christ is about caring and sharing with all others, and this includes gifting the environment as well. Be led by prayer and compassion and you will gift as Spirit leads. “God has given us life and breath, to all who recognize him, and equally to those who don’t. As Jesus said, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:45) “But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?” (Matthew 5:44-47) “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27) “Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked. The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.” (Acts 10:4 – note that it does not say “Christian poor”) “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ (excerpts from Matthew 25:34-40)

What about use of a person’s time instead of a given monetary value? Simply put, it is always about offering our best to God. Father blesses all acts of charity, whether it is time or money or other gifts, he knows what the heart of the person is and what their ability is measured out to be. “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19 italics mine) Note that even the rich were encouraged to do more than be generous, but to “do good,” and “be rich in good deeds.” For most of us, giving our full measure means that we are capable of doing more than writing a check, we can also physically give of our time. In any community there are a variety of wonderful ways to volunteer, and each time we do so we put Christ’s love into action in our own corner of the world, and the light and love of God expands.

Even with giving of our time, there is need for prayer and discernment, and letting God’s Spirit lead us to where and what is the most needed at the time. This means that if we are healthy and have some currency, we may be led to give of both in a week, or one or the other – let it be up to God to decide. Gone are the days when people could take care of their needs by what they traded or made. There are electric bills, water bills, transportation costs, and many other needs that can only be taken care of by monetary contributions. So while we may be tempted to think that donating a few hours at a soup kitchen is all we need to do, remember again that God knows the heart of the person and what each of us is capable of. And never are we to compare ourselves to what someone else is doing, or be tempted to give only for an end result of attention or honor by men. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.” (Matthew 6:2) It is always about being honest with God and offering the best reflection of Christ’s love that we can, whether it is in word, or deed, or currency.

We are given a good example of the need for honesty in our giving by an example of the early Christians in Acts. “All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.” (Acts 2:44,45) “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.” (Acts 4:32-35) Yet a man named Ananias together with his wife Sapphira sold a piece of property and donated only a part of the selling price to the church although they claimed to have given the whole amount. It was not about the amount of money - they could have held back whatever they chose. But they were dishonest with God with what they gave. Led by the Spirit of God, Peter confronted them about their dishonesty, and immediately they “fell down and died.” (Acts 5:1-11) God is not one to be mocked, he sees our hearts and knows the good we are capable of, and expects Christ-like behavior from us and for us to respect and love one another.

True generosity is one of the marks of being a follower of Christ, and when led by prayer, is a very real way our hands become God’s hands to bless the world through Divine love. All we have received and have is because of God’s generosity and love in the first place – he is only asking us to share with one another what we were already given. Know that whatever way you are led to give, God smiles upon your generosity and you will receive his blessing, whether you are readily aware of it or not. And this expression of love is by giving of our time, goods or currency by a cheerful heart, and not out of compulsion or even monitored by a specific percentage of your income – it must be motivated by love. “If I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing….And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:1-13) So why are we asked to give this offering of love? “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

What Does God Say? The Truth About Tithing. Is It Always About Money?

Most of us are aware of the passage from Acts 20:35 where Paul is quoting Jesus as saying ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ We know from experience that we feel satisfaction and joy when we give, and most of us would like to give more than we have been able to. But are we under scriptural obligation to give a certain amount, and is it always about money? Really, what is the truth about tithing, and what does God say about giving in general?

Some church authorities teach that tithing is required by God and to be given only to the church. Some say that additional monies can be given to other worthy causes but is not part of your tithe. Other churches say whatever you can give is good enough for God. Some say you should only give to churches or Christian organizations. Some say they do not have to give of their money, but of their time and that’s enough. Others say you do not honor God unless what you give is a sacrifice. But what does God really say? How do we give to God and are Christians obliged to tithe today?

By tradition, a tithe is considered 10% of a person’s income. Most people point to the origin of the tithe as beginning with the Israelites in the Old Testament with the priestly sons of Aaron and the Levities who helped them. They were divinely gifted a tithe of all the Israelite’s agricultural offerings to God. This was so they would be able to keep living and yet fulfill their responsibilities for taking care of God-appointed tasks (Numbers 18:1-32). The Israelites were a pastoral people and the twelve tribes were to inherit land from God, but the Lord said to Aaron, “You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any share among them; I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites.” (vs.20) God also stated the Levites would have no inheritance in the land, but would receive the tithe in return for the work they did. (vs. 21,31) Of that tithe the Levites received they were also required to give 10% - a tithe of a tithe. (vs.26)

These were Divine obligations of law that the entire nation, the “descendants of Jacob,” were to obey. There were direct cause-and-effect upon the Israelite people for meeting the requirements of tithing. If they did not provide for the Levities in charge of the Tent of Meeting and the high priests, “the word of the Lord to Israel through Malachi” said that not giving tithes and offerings were the same as robbing God. However, if they did meet the requirements, all the land would see good benefits. “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 you will not have room enough for it.” (Malachi 1-4) All these things were directed specifically to the Israelites, the descendants of Jacob under the Law of Moses.

However, we are not under the Mosaic Law any longer. We are under a new covenant of grace, through the priesthood of Christ. Hebrews 7:11-8:2 says in part “Now the law (italics mine) requires the descendants of Levi who become priests to collect a tenth from the people – that is, their brothers – even though their brothers are descended from Abraham.” (vs.5) “If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the law was given to the people), why was there still need for another priest to come – one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron?” (vs. 11) “For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.” (vs.14) “For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever. The point of what we are saying is this: “We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by man.” (vs.8:1,2) Christ fulfilled the laws of the old covenant, “For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance – now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.” (Hebrews 9:15)

But are there any examples of tithing that predate the old law? Yes, earlier in the Old Testament, before the Mosaic Law came into being, we also see a tithe being offered, this time by Abraham to Melchizedek. “Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed be God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.” (Genesis 14:18-20) So are we required to follow that? Melchizedek was not only a priest, but also a king, and a tenth was considered a king’s share. It was not uncommon in early non-Israelite cities for kingly and priestly duties to be performed by the same person. Later, Samuel solemnly warned Israel when they asked him to “appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have,” that among other things, the king “…will take a tenth of your grain and of your vintage and give it to his officials and attendants.” (1 Samuel 8:11-22)

Abraham had many kings come out to visit him, but we do not see him offering ten percent to any other one, so we see that he did not consider it a mandatory response for a royal visit. Nor did he see the gift as a requirement of living on Melchizedek’s land or under his authority in some way. However, he gave nonetheless. Abraham’s response to Melchizedek showed he identified with him as being a priest that served the Lord he himself knew, and his gifting was a joyful act directed to God, not made out of compulsion or a written law. Melchizedek is later spoken of as prefiguring the heavenly king Jesus Christ whose priesthood was not in the order of Aaron but “in the order of Melchizedek.” (Psalms 110:4)

While Jesus was on earth we see him accusing the teachers of the Mosaic Law and Pharisees of hypocrisy in their tithing because they were not practicing what they preached. Outwardly they were only minutely obeying what was required: “You give a tenth of your spices…but you have neglected the more important matter of the law – justice, mercy and faithfulness.” (Matthew 23:23). In fact, knowing that he would soon be fulfilling the old law, Jesus summed up the deeper meaning of what God had been teaching through the Law by pointing towards the bigger picture of love. “One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:28-31) Paul repeated this in Romans as well: “The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Roman 13:9-10)

Christ also showed that giving to God is not always about giving money. Remember that even in the beginning, the original form of tithing was the sharing of one’s goods, such as agriculture and farm animals. Jesus underscored that with the Pharisees when they asked: “Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” Jesus then asked to be shown the coin used for paying the tax, and he asked them, “Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away.”(Matthew 22:15-22) One of the lessons Jesus was teaching was that mere coin was not what pleased God, but that there were other ways Father could be gifted. Something even as small as giving a cup of water to one in need, gives to God. (Matthew 10:42) And when a costly jar of perfume was poured on Jesus’ head instead of it being sold to the poor, he said it was “a beautiful thing to me.” (Matthew 26: 6-13)

Giving was not always about money, but in gifting what the person had that could benefit others, including sharing Divine supernatural gifts given by the Holy Spirit. ^“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11) Eagerly sharing was exemplified by Christ’s apostles who were a role model for all who received Divine gifts, such as healing a begging man who was crippled from birth. “Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” (Acts 3:1-10)

What are we to give to those in the ministry work? In the New Testament we see the first Christians making freewill offerings without a specific amount required, and giving freely without written law and without compulsion, to aid distressed Christians in Jerusalem. Paul talked about this in 1 Corinthians 16:1: “Now about the collection for God’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.” Besides material gifting, we also see the awareness of giving time to those who wanted to teach more about Christ so the word of God may spread. “In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” This proposal pleased the whole group…So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” (Acts 6:1-7, NIV) “Give double honor to spiritual leaders who handle their duties well. This is especially true if they work hard at teaching the word of God. After all, Scripture says, "Never muzzle an ox when it is threshing grain,” and “The worker deserves his pay.” (1Timothy 5:17, 18 GWT)

Indeed, Father Billy and I would not be able to write these articles or survive in the healing and deliverance ministries if it were not for the tenderness and compassion that continues to motivate hearts to gift us with food, money and places to live. And we personally see this blessing as an obligation to lead simple lives with simple needs, so not to put undue pressure upon anyone. “For God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.” (Romans 11:29) Even so, this is personally what both of us were called to do, and it is not required by all people of faith, we each have different purposes in the Divine love of God.

For those called to lead a simple life, God has often relied upon the response of people to his Spirit moving upon them to provide for the needs of his ministers. “When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He told them: “Take nothing for the journey – no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town, as a testimony against them.” So they set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere.” (Luke 9:1-6) “Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered.” (Luke 22:35) “Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.” (Luke 12:22-31)

Is giving only honorable to God if it is a sacrifice to do it, if it is almost more than affordable? Some point to this scripture as proof of that. “Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything – all she had to live on.” (Mark 12:41-44) Jesus was teaching many lessons with this – including that God does not look not at the amount given, but the faith shown. This falls in accord with the lessons given in many other scriptures. For example, Paul was encouraged by the rich generosity of the Macedonian churches who helped the Christians in Jerusalem, and shared with the Corinthian church what they had done: “And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.” (2 Corinthians 8:1-4) Yet Paul did not ask for the same amount of donation that the Macedonian churches gave, but encouraged the same spirit of earnestness and love in what the Corinthians offered. For they had previously started to gather a donation for those in Jerusalem, but had not brought it to completion. “Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have (italics mine). Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality.” (2 Corinthians 8:7-13)

We are not asked to be in debt so that others may be out of debt, or to starve so that others may eat. God does not require this for our gifts to be honorable to him, but to be aware of treating others how we wish to be treated. “…in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” (Matthew 7:12, Luke 6:31) We are always to choose love over fear, and not worry about storing up amounts of items for ourselves (Mark 12:13-21), and conversely, not to sow in a way that puts us in a place of lack and need. It is about awareness of equality, and giving to others as they have the need, and receiving from others as we ourselves have the need, and to do neither without guilt, but with a cheerful heart. “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) Even with the daily gathering of the manna in the desert during the Israelites forty years of wandering, “He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little.” (Exodus 16:17,18; 2 Corinthians 8:15) There was an equal distribution made so that the young and strong who might have collected more could share with the aged and weak. The extra of some was a ministry of blessing for the deficiency of others, yet both were expected to work to the full ability they were able, which is each one’s “full measure.” This is the true meaning of: “For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38) We are to do our utmost in what we put our hand to do, and this only has to do with only our own personal ability, not in regard to competition with what others may do or give.

Many churches today strongly imply a “prosperity-theology” that if sacrificial gifting is made, or tithing given whether a person is able to or not, that this ensures that God will make sure to not only give back the amount that was given, but to greatly increase it. These churches may even promote letters or testimonies of members who received a raise at work, an unexpected check in the mail, or other financial wind-fall. Some of these churches go so far as to teach that God blesses those who tithe and curses those who don’t. But what about those who don’t receive the boon they were expecting? This can lead to many problems that can damage faith, including thinking they are not good enough to be heard by God, or promoting suspicion between mates about undisclosed sinful practices. Outsiders are often quick to blame a lack of faith or a variety of moral failures. But is this correct? While we all know it feels good to give, whether through money, materials or time, we also know deep in our hearts that it is not about how good we are, but about how good God is. If we believe a prosperity-theology, we set ourselves up for attack by the unHoly fallen Angels. We become a prime target for expecting only good to happen to us in an evil world. We are not Christians because it makes our life easier – we are Christians because we love God and desire him. This was one of the original issues that Satan brought up about Job and all of mankind, that we only come to God out of what we can get from him. (Job 1:1-12) However, when we love God we do not treat him like a celestial Santa Claus that we expect gifts from for being good throughout the year. The serenity and peace that comes from doing God’s will and helping one another is a spiritual reward in itself, and one that God blesses how he sees fit, which may not be the same way we think it ought to be. It is not always about material things. We must not think that we can bribe God by giving. Our personal relationship with our heavenly Father is based on so much more than this.

Are we to give only to Christian organizations? No. Reflecting the love of Christ is about caring and sharing with all others, and this includes gifting the environment as well. Be led by prayer and compassion and you will gift as Spirit leads. “God has given us life and breath, to all who recognize him, and equally to those who don’t. As Jesus said, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:45) “But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?” (Matthew 5:44-47) “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27) “Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked. The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.” (Acts 10:4 – note that it does not say “Christian poor”) “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ (excerpts from Matthew 25:34-40)

What about use of a person’s time instead of a given monetary value? Simply put, it is always about offering our best to God. Father blesses all acts of charity, whether it is time or money or other gifts, he knows what the heart of the person is and what their ability is measured out to be. “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19 italics mine) Note that even the rich were encouraged to do more than be generous, but to “do good,” and “be rich in good deeds.” For most of us, giving our full measure means that we are capable of doing more than writing a check, we can also physically give of our time. In any community there are a variety of wonderful ways to volunteer, and each time we do so we put Christ’s love into action in our own corner of the world, and the light and love of God expands.

Even with giving of our time, there is need for prayer and discernment, and letting God’s Spirit lead us to where and what is the most needed at the time. This means that if we are healthy and have some currency, we may be led to give of both in a week, or one or the other – let it be up to God to decide. Gone are the days when people could take care of their needs by what they traded or made. There are electric bills, water bills, transportation costs, and many other needs that can only be taken care of by monetary contributions. So while we may be tempted to think that donating a few hours at a soup kitchen is all we need to do, remember again that God knows the heart of the person and what each of us is capable of. And never are we to compare ourselves to what someone else is doing, or be tempted to give only for an end result of attention or honor by men. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.” (Matthew 6:2) It is always about being honest with God and offering the best reflection of Christ’s love that we can, whether it is in word, or deed, or currency.

We are given a good example of the need for honesty in our giving by an example of the early Christians in Acts. “All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.” (Acts 2:44,45) “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.” (Acts 4:32-35) Yet a man named Ananias together with his wife Sapphira sold a piece of property and donated only a part of the selling price to the church although they claimed to have given the whole amount. It was not about the amount of money - they could have held back whatever they chose. But they were dishonest with God with what they gave. Led by the Spirit of God, Peter confronted them about their dishonesty, and immediately they “fell down and died.” (Acts 5:1-11) God is not one to be mocked, he sees our hearts and knows the good we are capable of, and expects Christ-like behavior from us and for us to respect and love one another.

True generosity is one of the marks of being a follower of Christ, and when led by prayer, is a very real way our hands become God’s hands to bless the world through Divine love. All we have received and have is because of God’s generosity and love in the first place – he is only asking us to share with one another what we were already given. Know that whatever way you are led to give, God smiles upon your generosity and you will receive his blessing, whether you are readily aware of it or not. And this expression of love is by giving of our time, goods or currency by a cheerful heart, and not out of compulsion or even monitored by a specific percentage of your income – it must be motivated by love. “If I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing….And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:1-13) So why are we asked to give this offering of love? “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)