When it comes to finances, particularly the tithe, and the fact that some no longer believe in it, there are always individuals who eagerly engage in this conversation. Specifically, non-contributors and those who lack a solid understanding of this biblical concept.
Those who are unaware often fail to grasp the distinction between what we refer to as the Levitical tithe and the Melchizedek tithe. The Levitical tithe was a requirement under the Law of Moses, while the Melchizedek tithe was what Abraham offered to Melchizedek, the High Priest who serves as a symbol of Christ Himself (Hebrews 7).
We are no longer bound by the Law of Moses, so we don’t observe the Levitical tithe in the house of the Lord. Instead, we follow the example of Abraham and bring the Melchizedek tithe. Abraham serves as a model for believers, his covenant with God represents the new covenant, and his life provides a pattern for all of us (Galatians 3:6-9).
However, the key difference between the Levitical tithe and the Melchizedek tithe is that the former was a legal requirement, while the latter is a principle and pattern.
A law is externally imposed, while a principle must be internalized; it requires revelation.
A compelling analogy for this concept is found in the parable of the Lost Coin in Luke 15:8-10. What many people might not realize is that this parable also pertains to tithing.
The woman in the parable had ten coins, but she lost one. She represents the Church, which has also lost the coin (the principle of tithing). She searches in two ways.
First, she lights a lamp, symbolizing revelation. This means that when we discuss tithing in the Church, we are not enforcing it as a law but rather shedding light on why tithing is a divine principle and a pattern to follow. Then, she uses a broom to sweep the house clean of dust. Ultimately, the lost coin is found beneath the dust, which is connected to the serpent (Genesis 3:14) and represents diabolical reasoning. This implies that when we discuss tithing, we are not only imparting revelation (turning on the light) but also addressing strongholds and reasoning that oppose the principle of tithing (sweeping the house clean of the dust).
Finally, she finds the coin and rejoices, as repentance also involves placing our finances under the authority of God.
Dear people of God, understand that the tithe we offer in God’s house is not linked to the Levitical Priesthood of Aaron but to the eternal priesthood of Melchizedek in Christ, which is connected to Abraham and, thus, to the covenant of Promise that remains valid for the heirs of salvation. This principle was practiced by Abraham and Jacob even before the Law of Moses.
The principle of tithing can also be seen in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve were permitted to eat from all the trees except one. In other words, there is always something that belongs to God.
Tithing is not a legal requirement but a principle; it is an act of honouring and worshiping God. It also provides the house of God with resources. When we tithe, we acknowledge that our finances also belong to God. Moreover, there is nothing wrong with systematic giving, as long as it is done with a joyful heart.
Let us reintroduce the lost coin (the tithe) into the house of God, but let us do so with the right perspective.
Tithing, yes, is it a law? No, it is a principle and a pattern to follow!
