Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one's income or produce to the church, is a deeply rooted tradition in Christianity, tracing its origins back to the Old Testament. The question of the consequences of not tithing is a significant one, as it touches upon both spiritual and practical aspects of faith. To understand these consequences, we must delve into the scriptural basis for tithing, its historical context, and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles on this matter.
The concept of tithing is first introduced in the Bible in Genesis 14:18-20, where Abram (later Abraham) gives a tenth of everything he has to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. This act of giving a tithe is seen as an acknowledgment of God's provision and blessing. Later, in Leviticus 27:30-32, the Israelites are commanded to give a tithe of their produce and livestock to the Lord. This tithe was meant to support the Levites, who were the priests and caretakers of the tabernacle and later the temple, as they had no inheritance of their own (Numbers 18:21-24).
One of the most direct references to the consequences of not tithing is found in the book of Malachi. In Malachi 3:8-10, God speaks through the prophet Malachi, saying:
"Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, 'How are we robbing you?' In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. 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 there will not be room enough to store it."
In this passage, God accuses the Israelites of robbing Him by withholding their tithes and offerings. The consequence of this action is a curse upon the nation. However, God also provides a promise: if the people bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, He will bless them abundantly. This passage highlights the spiritual principle that withholding tithes is seen as an act of disobedience and lack of trust in God's provision, which leads to negative consequences.
The New Testament does not explicitly command tithing in the same way the Old Testament does, but it does emphasize the principles of generosity and stewardship. Jesus speaks about the importance of giving in several passages. In Matthew 23:23, He criticizes the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing while neglecting more important matters of the law:
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former."
Here, Jesus affirms the practice of tithing but emphasizes that it should not be done at the expense of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. This suggests that while tithing is important, it is not the only measure of one's faithfulness to God.
The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of giving in his letters. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, he writes:
"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."
Paul's teaching emphasizes the attitude of the giver rather than the specific amount given. The principle here is one of generosity and cheerfulness in giving, with the promise that God will bless those who give generously.
The consequences of not tithing, therefore, can be understood in several ways:
-
Spiritual Consequences: Tithing is an act of obedience and trust in God's provision. By not tithing, one may be demonstrating a lack of faith and trust in God's ability to provide. This can lead to a strained relationship with God, as it is an act of withholding what is rightfully His. The curse mentioned in Malachi can be seen as a spiritual consequence of this disobedience.
-
Practical Consequences: Tithing supports the work of the church and its ministries. By not tithing, one may be hindering the church's ability to carry out its mission and support its leaders. This can have practical implications for the church community and its outreach efforts.
-
Personal Consequences: The principle of sowing and reaping mentioned by Paul suggests that those who are generous in their giving will be blessed in return. Conversely, those who withhold their tithes may miss out on the blessings that come from generous giving. This is not to suggest a prosperity gospel, but rather the biblical principle that God blesses those who are faithful and generous.
In addition to these consequences, it is important to consider the heart behind tithing. God desires a willing and cheerful giver, not one who gives out of obligation or fear of punishment. The act of tithing should be a joyful response to God's provision and an acknowledgment of His lordship over all aspects of life.
Christian literature also offers insights into the practice of tithing. For example, in his book "The Treasure Principle," Randy Alcorn emphasizes the eternal perspective on giving. He writes, "You can't take it with you—but you can send it on ahead." Alcorn encourages believers to see their resources as tools for advancing God's kingdom and storing up treasures in heaven.
In conclusion, the consequences of not tithing, as mentioned in the Bible, encompass spiritual, practical, and personal aspects. Tithing is an act of obedience, trust, and generosity that supports the work of the church and demonstrates faith in God's provision. While the New Testament does not mandate tithing in the same way as the Old Testament, the principles of generous and cheerful giving remain central to Christian living. By understanding and embracing these principles, believers can experience the blessings that come from faithful stewardship and a heart aligned with God's purposes.
