Some believers think tithing started with the old covenant Law of Moses. Certainly the Law gave instruction on how to bring the tithe to the Lord. But a tithe was brought to the Lord hundreds of years earlier before the Law existed. Abram (Abraham) gave a tithe in Genesis 14:17-24. There we read about him giving a tithe out of gratitude for God’s prosperity on his work and in battle against his enemies.

Abram’s tithe was a heart action, not a legal action. Jesus did not come to do away with this testimony and expression of gratitude for God as our Source. The old covenant no more instituted the tithe than the new covenant made the tithe pass away. Giving has always been a matter of the heart, not a matter of law. Today, we offer our tithe to Jesus in an attitude of worship (Hebrews 6:20 and 7:1).

Kenneth and Gloria Copeland’s personal conviction is to tithe on the gross of all income that comes into their hands (Proverbs 3:9-10, Malachi 3:8-11). They know the Lord will always bless them above what they can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).

Tithing is just the beginning of God’s system of living, because we can give of ourselves every day! Whether it’s being kind to another person or sharing the good news of the gospel with someone in need, God desires we be a giving people. We encourage you to commit to the Lord to give of yourself as He directs. Whether it’s your time, talents, finances or abilities, God will use and reward your seed sown (Hebrews 11:6)!