Not Everyone Can Tithe

John Piper

          I’ve heard this statement made many times over the years.  Let’s take some time to explore the practice of tithing and see if the statement is true.  First off, to make sure we are all on the same page, tithing is the practice of giving 10% of what we receive from God, back to God.  It is a practice that is directed by God to His people in Holy Scriptures.  The 10% or tithe is given off the top, up front as first fruits of the harvest.  Then, we plan on budgeting ourselves on the remaining 90%.  God promises us that if we follow His directive, He will shower us with abundant blessings and we will never be in need.  If we can’t believe God’s promises, then whose can we believe?

          So, I’ve heard some say that they are on a fixed income or make too little to be able to tithe.  I’ve heard others say that they make too much to be able to tithe.  Hmm…  Well, the last I checked it seemed to me that we are all on fairly fixed incomes.  Let’s suppose you only make $1.00 a week.  Would it really be harder to get by on 10 cents less?  Or if you make $200 a week, would it really be any harder basing your budget on $180?  And not to leave out the bountifully blessed, let’s say your income is $5000 a week.  It seems to me that $4500 would be a doable leftover. 

          Now in the ancient Church, established by God, tithing was a natural response to God and an accepted, universal practice.  In addition to the tithe, people gave their offerings: offerings out of the heart to help with observed needs. The tithe was expected.  The offerings were icing on the cake, both in response to God’s particular blessings and to carry on the ministry of His Church.

          But, don’t think that tithing is all about filling the coffers and paying the bills.  Although there are denominations in our community where, because of taking God’s Word seriously, beautiful sanctuaries are built without debt and God’s missions in the world are bountifully funded.  Yes, if everyone tithed, we would be debt free and able to plan wonderful, beneficial ministries with our sacrificial tithes and offerings.

No, the real benefit of tithing is the fact that it means the tither is trusting fully in God to provide for all needs.  Tithing establishes a closer relationship with God and subsequently with His people.  It becomes natural to pray, worship and rely on God’s presence and assistance in one’s life. And in those communities of faith, where tithing abounds, a true fellowship of love exists with packed worship services and the Holy Spirit’s flaming inspiration.

          Besides God’s directive, the historical practice of tithing, and examples from our neighbors in Christ, we also have Christ’s own example to guide us in our offering decisions.  Christ did not tithe.  No, He gave 100%!  And even though all we have and all we are comes from God, He is only asking for 10%.

          So, I think we have come up with a clearer understanding of the title of this article.    Not everyone can tithe.  Some can give much more.  Prayerfully consider making a monumental change in your response to God’s blessings and truly discover His peace.