The first time we encounter the word "tithe" which means tenth, in the Bible is in Genesis, when Abram is returning from a battle after a victory over Kedorlaomer (14.17-20). Melchizadek, King of Salem, (Jerusalem), came out to meet him, bringing bread and wine. He blessed Abram. Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. Abraham, a friend of God, gives a tenth to this Priest, Melchizadek. The first time we see the tithe in God's Word there is fellowship going on, a time of thanksgiving, a time of gratitude to God.
As Moses continues his final message to Israel, he speaks to them about the tithe, giving 10% to the LORD. It is not given as a cold command rather in the spirit of love which Abraham gave it and the way God's people are to honor Him under the New Covenant.
The tithe is to be given to God out of love for Him. It is a spiritual act of worship, distinct from the way we pay taxes, very different.
Look at the things the LORD had Moses speak to Israel about in regards tot he fellowship of the tithe.
1. The Tithe Teaches Us To Revere the LORD. -v.23
Revere= respect, honor, awe We learn, it teaches children, sort of an on the job training.
The tithe shows we have:
*Responsibility- It is given because He has given. It is a response of love.
*An Acknowledgment of His love and provision- Israel was a nation of farmers and shepherds. God blessed the work of their hands. They acknowledged the blessings they had were indeed from the LORD God.
*A Share in His Work.
*Laying up treasures in heaven. The tithe is a tangible connection between heaven and earth.
*The tithe was a reminder eaten in the LORD's Presence.
The tithe is 10%. God is interested in proportionate giving- why Jesus said what He said about the widow's mite (Mark 12.41-44)
2. The Tithe is God's Way of Funding His Work. -v.27
The Levites- Numbers 3
They took care of the practical, physical aspects of worship.
The Tabernacle- the tent covering
Its furnishings
The frames, door posts, equipment, crossbars, etc.
I believe we misrepresent God by inferring that He is in need. All things are His. He doesn't need our support to stay in business. It is actually we need Him.
Under the New Covenant Ministers in the church I Corinthians 9.7-14, II Corinthians 9.6-11
We are the assessors- even determining what (the amount) of what we will give. This is done by direct contact with the LORD. Wonderful things happen in these times with Him and after.
Giving is not be an occasion for shrewd calculating but rather joyful worship. Our giving is to be cheerful- hilarious.
3. The Tithe Given to the LORD Means Blessings Will be Given by Him. -vs.28-29
God's blessings motivate us to be a blessing.
It is more blessed to give than to receive so the giver is always the most blessed.
The Promise Malachi 3.10 stands for us.
There is fellowship in this. Proverbs 19.17 He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward Him for what He has done.
Eternal Blessings Matthew 6.19-21 Treasures in Heaven
There are great blessings in tithing. Obedience brings joy. Revering His Name brings God's favor. Being a part of God's Work is exciting. Blessings come in abundance.
Malachi 3.10
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