Untitled Sermon (2)

Tithing: A Timeless Principle or Temporary Practice?

Summary: This sermon explores the relevance and application of tithing in contemporary Christianity, evaluating whether it is a command for today’s believers or a practice confined to the Old Testament.

Application: This sermon will help believers assess their financial stewardship and heart posture toward giving, encouraging them to cultivate a generous spirit that reflects God’s heartbeat for generosity.

Teaching: The teaching focuses on the biblical principles of giving, the cultural context of tithing, and how Christians today can apply these principles in their lives while aligning their financial decisions with their faith.

How this passage could point to Christ: In exploring tithing, we see that ultimately our giving reflects Christ’s generous nature. He modeled the ultimate sacrifice, teaching us about the heart of generosity and the true ownership of all we have as being rooted in our relationship with Him.

Big Idea: Faithful stewardship of our resources, including tithes, is not just a matter of obligation, but an act of worship that reflects our relationship with Christ.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider delving into the socio-cultural context of tithing in both the Old and New Testaments. Look at the historical practices and theological implications of tithing, and consult Logos for commentaries that discuss the transition from law to grace in giving. Examine how New Testament teachings on generosity compare with Old Testament practices.

1. Determine Divine Ownership

Leviticus 27:30-34

You could explore the historical context of the Old Testament tithe, emphasizing how it was a command for Israel to acknowledge God's sovereignty over their resources. Drawing connections, emphasize that modern Christians are also called to recognize God as the ultimate owner of all, fostering a heart of generosity that goes beyond mere obligation. Encourage your listeners to consider how the practice of tithing can be a form of worship and surrender today.

2. Test Trust Through Tithing

Malachi 3:8-10

Perhaps highlight the prophetic call to faithfulness in giving as a test of trust and relationship with God. This passage can serve as a reminder that tithing is a matter of the heart—a test of whether we trust God to provide. Reflect on how this mirrors Christ's teaching on giving generously and cheerfully, pointing out that our financial stewardship is a testament to our faith and reliance on God as our provider.

3. Prioritize Principles Over Practice

Matthew 23:23

Maybe point out how Jesus affirms the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness over legalistic tithing. In this sermon point, delve into how Christ teaches us to prioritize the spirit over the letter of the law. Use this to challenge Christians to examine their motivations in giving: Are they reflecting a heart changed by Christ’s love? Encourage believers to let their giving reflect the deeper virtues of justice and mercy.

4. Cultivate Cheerful Charity

2 Corinthians 9:6-8

The apostle Paul's teachings on giving can serve as a model for New Testament generosity. Suggest how believers today are called not to give reluctantly but as cheerful givers. Contrast this joyful, voluntary generosity with Old Testament mandates, showing the evolution from obligation to heart-driven giving through the lens of Christ’s example of ultimate sacrifice and generosity.