The Tithe Trap: Exposing the Church’s Coercive Charity

Introduction

Tithing, the practice of giving a fixed portion of one’s earnings, is an ancient tradition that originates from the Old Testament. It was a clear and specific command: give ten percent. However, the New Testament brings a fresh perspective, emphasizing the importance of the heart behind the giving rather than the amount.

The early church leaders taught that giving should be a personal decision made out of generosity and compassion, not because of a strict rule. They encouraged believers to give according to what they felt was right, considering their own financial situation and the needs of the church. This wasn’t just about money but about being part of a community and supporting one another. This approach to giving is more about the spirit of generosity. It’s about making a difference and doing it willingly. The New Testament message is clear: give because you care, and give what you can. It’s a simple but powerful way of living out one’s faith.

Despite Biblical Truth, it is not uncommon to encounter modern-day preachers who cite Old Testament verses to endorse a tithing “mandate” to compel their followers to donate ten percent of their income, often to support extravagant pastoral lifestyles. This practice starkly contrasts the scriptural intent of giving: to support the needy and foster community welfare rather than to feed personal excess. The essence of Christian giving is to provide for those in need, reflecting the love and compassion at the heart of the Gospel, rather than to fulfill a legalistic requirement or sustain opulent living.

1. Practice of Tithing In The Old Testament

Many Christians may not be fully aware of the significance and regulations surrounding tithing. However, understanding the purpose and rules of tithing provides valuable insights into the Israelites’ relationship with God and their stewardship of resources.

1. The Purpose of Tithing:
   • Tithing was a central practice in ancient Israel. The word “tithe” comes from the Hebrew word “ma’aser” which means “a tenth.”
2. Rules Governing Tithing:
   • Types of Tithes:
     • First Tithe: The Israelites were required to give a tenth of their crops, livestock, and other produce. This tithe supported the Levites (the priestly tribe), who had no land inheritance but served at the Tabernacle or temple. No land inheritance meant they could not grow crops or sustain livestock; therefore, they needed community support to devote their time to priestly duties. This was an annual and not weekly event, as opposed to what churches teach today. It was also only food and never money – not silver or gold. The produce was set aside and kept in a storehouse (Malachi 3:10-12). The tithe was also of the “increase” and not of the total produce (Deut. 14:22). If in year 1 you produce one bushel of produce and the next year you produced 3, then you would give a tenth of the 2 bushels and not of the 3. Why? Because the difference (increase) is seen as a blessing from the Lord.
     • Second Tithe: Every third year, an additional tithe was set aside. This “festival tithe” was used for communal feasting and celebration. It allowed the people to gather and enjoy the blessings together. This second tithe reveals the importance of sharing with one’s community the blessing the Lord has given over the course of three years.
     • Third Tithe (Poor Tithe): Another tithe was collected in the third and sixth years of a seven-year cycle. This tithe supported the community’s poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners.
   • Where to Bring the Tithe:
     • The designated place for tithing was the central sanctuary, where God chose to put His name. Initially, this was the tabernacle, and later, the temple in Jerusalem.
     • If the location was too far, individuals could convert their produce into money, bring it to the central place, and reconvert it back to food items once they arrived at their destination.

2. Why Food?

God’s Design:

The tithe was intentionally tied to agricultural produce because it reflected God’s design. He created the earth, the seasons, and the natural processes that sustained life. God emphasized His sovereignty over creation by requiring a portion of crops and livestock. It reminded the Israelites that their sustenance ultimately came from Him. God’s requests always had spiritual significance. He didn’t ask for convenience; each command had a purpose. By mandating food tithes, God reinforced dependence on Him. It wasn’t about convenience but about acknowledging Him as God, the creator and provider of all!

Spiritual Lessons

Tithing food taught humility, gratitude, and trust. It reminded the Israelites that their abundance flowed from God’s grace. The rain, sun, and nutrients—all beyond human control—symbolized God’s blessings.

3. Overall Purpose Of The Tithe

Tithing served both practical and spiritual purposes. It supported the religious establishment (Levites) while also allowing the worshipers to celebrate and rejoice in God’s presence. The chief purpose of tithing was to cultivate reverence for Yahweh (Deuteronomy 14:23).

In summary, tithing was a regular practice, with specific allocations for the Levites, communal feasts, and care for the poor.

OT Bible verses related to Tithing Laws

1. Genesis 14:19-20 (KJV): And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
   • After Abraham’s victory in battle, he gave a tithe (a tenth) of the spoils to Melchizedek, the priest and king of Salem. Please note that he did not give a tenth of what he owed but a tenth of the gain he acquired.
2. Genesis 28:20-22 (KJV): And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on,21 So that I come again to my father’s house in peace; then shall the LORD be my God:22 And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God’s house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee. Jacobs’s burnt offer was evidence of his faith and trust in God to meet his needs. This is one of the ways God’s people gave to God. They took the best of the crops and livestock and gave a tenth to Him by burning it on the altar – a sacrifice.
3. Leviticus 27:30 (KJV):
   • The Israelites were commanded to tithe from their crops and livestock. This tithe was considered holy to the Lord.
4. Numbers 18:21 (KJV):
   • The Levites received the tithes as their inheritance for their service at the tent of the meeting.
5. Numbers 18:26 (KJV):
   • The Levites were instructed to present a tenth of the tithe they received as an offering to the Lord.
6. Proverbs 3:9-10 (KJV):
   • “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
7. 2 Chronicles 31:4-5 (KJV):
   • King Hezekiah ordered the people to give the portion due to the priests and Levites so they could devote themselves to the Law of the LORD.
8. Jacob vowed to give a tenth of all he received to God, acknowledging God’s provision.

4. They “Devour Widows’ Houses”

During Jesus’ time on Earth, religious leaders faced scrutiny for their selfish acts, actions that still continue today.

The Pharisees, prominent figures in ancient Israel, often lived in opulence and exploited resources meant for the poor. Their hypocrisy extended to using charitable funds for personal gain. Jesus, our Lord, was well aware of their practices. He confronted them, exposing their hypocrisy and misuse of power. His teachings emphasized compassion, justice, and care for the vulnerable. Widows, already vulnerable, suffered most from these unjust practices. Their financial struggles were exacerbated by religious obligations imposed on them. In summary, religious leadership abuse has deep historical roots, and Jesus’ teachings continue to inspire us to advocate for justice and compassion.

In the Gospels, Jesus consistently advocated for compassion, justice, and care for the marginalized. Here’s a more detailed explanation:

1. Context:
   • During Jesus’ ministry, the religious leaders (scribes, Pharisees, and teachers of the law) held significant influence in Jewish society.
   • They were responsible for interpreting and enforcing religious laws, but some of them abused their authority.
2. Exploitation of Widows:
   • Widows were particularly vulnerable in ancient Israel. Without a husband to provide for them, they relied on charity and support from the community.
   • Unfortunately, some religious leaders took advantage of widows by imposing financial burdens on them.
   • These burdens included excessive tithes, offerings, and other religious obligations, often leaving widows impoverished.
3. Jesus’ Condemnation:
   • Jesus criticized the religious leaders for their hypocrisy and lack of compassion.
   • In Luke 20:47, He specifically called out those who “devour widows’ houses” while maintaining an outward appearance of piety.
   • Their lengthy prayers and religious rituals were a facade, masking their exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
4. Greater Condemnation:
   • In Mark 12:40 and Matthew 23:14, Jesus warned that these leaders would face severe consequences.
   • Their actions were not only unjust but also spiritually damaging.
   • By preying on widows, they violated the core principles of love, mercy, and fairness.
5. Application Today:
   • While the historical context differs, the underlying message remains relevant.
   • We should examine our hearts and actions, ensuring we don’t burden the vulnerable or exploit those in need.
   • Compassion, empathy, and genuine care for others should guide our interactions, especially with those who are marginalized.

Remember that Jesus consistently championed the cause of the downtrodden, and His teachings continue to inspire us to do the same. Unfortunately, many pastors today exploit their congregation instead of helping them and providing for their needs.

5. Graceful Giving: The New Testament’s Vision for Charity

In the New Testament, the act of giving is consistently portrayed as a matter of personal conviction and generosity rather than a legalistic obligation. For instance, 2 Corinthians 9:7 states, “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” This passage encapsulates the essence of New Testament giving—done willingly and with a spirit of cheerfulness, not out of compulsion or fear of retribution.

Moreover, the New Testament church is depicted as a body of believers who shared their resources freely, as seen in the book of Acts, where the early Christians sold their possessions and goods and distributed the proceeds to anyone they had need (Acts 2:44-45). This communal generosity starkly contrasts the tithe, a specific levy for a specific purpose under the Old Covenant.

The absence of a prescribed percentage for giving in the New Testament writings underscores the principle that what matters most is the giver’s heart and attitude. The focus is on the Gospel’s transformative power, which compels believers to give out of love for God and neighbor, not because of a commandment carved in stone.

While tithing is mentioned in the Gospels, it is within the context of Jesus addressing the Pharisees’ legalistic practices rather than instructing the church on giving. Therefore, the New Testament presents a model of giving that is flexible and motivated by love, which stands in contrast to the fixed and compulsory nature of the Old Testament tithe.

Bible verses that encourage charity and the spirit of giving (KJV):

• Luke 6:38: “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
• 2 Corinthians 9:6: “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.”
• Acts 20:35: “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
• 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”
• Hebrews 13:16: “But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
• 1 John 3:17: “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?”

These verses emphasize the importance of giving generously and willingly, supporting those in need, and doing so with a cheerful heart, as this reflects the love of God and aligns with His teachings.

In summary, the New Testament church exemplifies a model of giving that is flexible, heartfelt, and responsive to the needs of the community, reflecting the grace and freedom found in Christ. This spirit of liberality and faith-driven generosity should inform the Christian understanding of giving in the contemporary church.

6. Compassion, Not Clergy Wealth: Redefining the Purpose of Giving

The Bible teaches that compassion is a profound attribute of God’s nature that is meant to be mirrored in the lives of His followers. It is not merely a fleeting sentiment but a compelling force for action. The scriptures underscore this through passages that call for active empathy and selfless benevolence:

• Proverbs 19:17: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” This verse encapsulates that giving to those in need is an investment in the kingdom of God, not earthly riches.
• Luke 6:36: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Here, Jesus instructs His disciples to embody the mercy of God, suggesting that our actions towards others should reflect the divine mercy we ourselves have received.
• Matthew 6:2-4: “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do… But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.” This passage warns against the self-aggrandizement that can accompany acts of charity, advocating for a humility that seeks no recognition.

7. Old Testament Tithing Compare to New Testament Giving

1. Tithing in the Old Testament:

The concept of tithing originated in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word for tithe, “āśar,” means “one-tenth.” We commonly associate tithing with giving 10% of our income to God. Leviticus 27:30 emphasizes that every tithe—whether from crops or fruit—is holy to the Lord. It was a way for the Israelites to support the Levites (who had no land inheritance) and the temple services. Malachi 3:10-12 contains a well-known passage about tithing: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.” However, it’s essential to recognize that tithing in the Old Testament was part of the Mosaic Law, which included various regulations beyond just financial giving.

2. Transition to the New Testament:

With the advent of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant, there was a shift in how believers approached giving. Jesus affirmed the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23), but He didn’t rigidly enforce the tithe as a legal requirement. The early church’s doctrine evolved from strict adherence to tithing toward a more gracious model of giving. Acts 2:44-45 describes believers selling their possessions and sharing with one another as needs arose. 2 Corinthians 9:7 highlights the New Testament principle: “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.”

3. A Spirit of Freedom and Generosity:

The New Testament advocates for a giving spirit that is spontaneous and heartfelt, aligning with the church’s needs and the believer’s own calling, rather than a fixed ten percent. Giving becomes an act of faith and generosity, not a compulsory duty. Believers are encouraged to give sacrificially, recognizing that all they have belongs to God. While tithing remains a valid practice for some, it’s not a strict requirement. Instead, we are called to be good stewards of all our resources, including finances, time, and talents.

In essence, the Bible’s perspective on giving is transformative. It calls for a shift from self-centered accumulation to a life characterized by generous outpouring. Therefore, The act of giving becomes a reflection of God’s heart—a tangible expression of His love and compassion. It is about making a difference in the lives of others, alleviating suffering, and spreading hope. By redefining the purpose of giving in this way, believers are encouraged to live out their faith through actions that resonate with the core values of Christianity: love, mercy, and grace. This is the true wealth of the church—not the gold in its coffers but the love in its deeds.

7. Poverty Predators – The Wealth Accumulation of False Church Leaders

The portrayal of Jesus’s life is a profound lesson in humility, a deliberate choice that flies in the face of the opulent lifestyles coveted by some of today’s church leaders. As the Son of God, Jesus’s rejection of worldly wealth and dominion was not just a personal stance but a scathing indictment of the corrupt values held by the false prophets of his time—and, indeed, of ours. When Satan tempted Jesus with the kingdoms of the world, his refusal was a powerful repudiation of the very foundations upon which these charlatans built their empires. Jesus’s teachings cut through the hypocrisy, challenging us to discern the true essence of spiritual leadership, untainted by greed and the insatiable thirst for power.

Luke 4:5-8: 5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it. 7 If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine. 8 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Jesus’s life is portrayed as one of humility, self-denial, and rejection of worldly riches. This stands in stark contrast to the opulent lifestyles some church leaders pursue.

Jesus’ Life of Humility & His Rejection of Worldly Riches:

1. Jesus’ Temptation in the Wilderness:
   • After His baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where He fasted for 40 days and nights (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13).
   • The devil tempted Him, offering all the kingdoms of the world if Jesus would bow down and worship him (Luke 4:5-8).
   • Jesus responded with unwavering faith, rejecting the allure of worldly power and wealth.

2. Rejecting Earthly Riches:
   • Jesus consistently demonstrated a life of simplicity and dependence on God. He was born in poverty (born in a manger) and lived among ordinary people.
   • During His ministry, Jesus didn’t accumulate wealth or seek earthly comforts. He relied on God’s provision and trusted in His Father’s plan.

3. The Pharisees and Their Hypocrisy:
   • The Pharisees, religious leaders of Jesus’ time, were often criticized for their hypocrisy. They outwardly appeared righteous but exploited widows and neglected justice (Matthew 23:14).
   • Jesus rebuked them for their love of money and their focus on external appearances (Matthew 23:25-28).

4. Church Leaders Today:
   • While not all church leaders fall into this category, some seek opulence, accumulating wealth, and living extravagant lifestyles.
   • It’s essential to discern between those who genuinely serve God’s people and those who prioritize personal gain.

8. Conclusion

In summary, Jesus’ example calls us to humility, selflessness, and reliance on God. Church leaders should follow His model, prioritizing spiritual well-being over material wealth.

9. Lesson

Bible verse 1 Timothy 5:8 is a caution for Christians to prioritize their families’ welfare and discern where they allocate their resources. This principle can be supported and expanded upon with various Bible verses that warn against false prophets and teachers, as well as those that guide Christians on financial stewardship:

• 1 Timothy 5:8: “But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” This verse emphasizes the importance of caring for one’s family as a primary responsibility.
• Matthew 7:15-16: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits.” Christians are urged to be vigilant and to judge the true nature of those who claim to be spiritual leaders by the outcomes of their actions.
• 2 Peter 2:3: “And in their greed they will exploit you with false words.” This passage warns believers about false teachers who would manipulate them for monetary gain.
• Micah 3:11: “Her heads judge for a bribe, her priests teach for pay, and her prophets divine for money; yet they lean on the Lord and say, ‘Is not the Lord among us? No disaster will come upon us.’” This verse criticizes religious leaders who are motivated by financial gain rather than true spiritual guidance.
• Proverbs 15:27: “Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live.” This proverb highlights the turmoil that can come from pursuing dishonest gain, implying that integrity in financial matters will lead to a more peaceful home life.

These verses collectively suggest that Christians should be cautious of those who use religion for personal enrichment and should instead focus on providing for their families and managing their finances in a way that aligns with biblical teachings. It is important for believers to seek wisdom and guidance from God to discern the true intentions of those who claim to speak in His name.