What is a tithe?

The tithe (meaning 10 percent) has been practiced throughout biblical history as a voluntary expression of the willingness of God’s people to give back a portion of our resources to God under His leadership. In the Old Testament, it was a command to God’s people. In the New Testament, it is a principle, which encourages believers to deny self, and give of their financial means so that the work of church may thrive, and, so those with physical needs may be ministered to.  

Why is tithing important?

Tithing is an intentional response to the love shown to us by God. It is a sacrificial act which blesses the giver, as well as the recepient of the gift. Tithing is an important aspect of worship, which honors God your provider and reminds yourself that all of your resources belong to Him and are provided through His grace. When we honor God by giving the first 10% of our income, we set ourselves on a course to honor God in the way we handle the rest of our finances. Tithing is a tangible representation of the highest priority in your life.

Should my tithe be based on gross or net earnings?

We believe that scripture supports the principle of giving on the gross of your earnings. Proverbs 3:9-10 says, “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim with new wine.” This concept of “first fruits” represents both the first and the best of your income, and the truth behind it is that you give the first and best to that which is most important in your life. When we give from our very first dollar earned, it shows God is first in our lives. On a very personal level, whether you tithe based on gross or net earnings reflects the priority you give God in your life

What is the difference between a tithe and an offering?

We give tithes from our income. We give offerings as we prosper. Tithing is God’s minimum standard, a starting point for giving. While a tithe consists of 10% of your income, an offering is any amount you give over and above that amount. An offering might include gifts for special projects, the church capital project, a compassion offering, etc.

What if my spouse and I have very different opinions on tithing?

This is not uncommon. Both spouses should pray with an open heart and open mind. Pray that God will reveal to you as individuals and as a family, the level of giving he expects from you.

Is it true that God will reward me financially, commensurate with what I give to the church?

We do not believe the Bible that supports the notion that God financially rewards those who financially support the church. Rather, we believe God blesses those who love him by keeping his commandments. Blessings come in many different forms. Among those commandments are caring for the poor, the hungry, the widow, and the prisoner, and sharing the good news of who Jesus the Christ is. Your tithes and offerings to First Baptist Church Rutherfordton support these commandments.

Who the tithe is really for?

Potentially, many needy people and Christian activities benefit from your willingness to tithe. But the primary beneficiary, is the giver. The giver is demonstrating that money, material possessions, do not have control over his or her life. When we act in obedience to God’s call to give to others through the church, we put ourselves on a path to be more like Christ. God the creator does not need our money. We need to allocate our resources in ways that demonstrate that God, not money or material possessions, is the priority in our life.