The Bible says, “the love of money is the root of all evil” (I Timothy 6:10), therefore you should be very cautious about your attitude concerning giving to the work of the Lord. Surprisingly, many overlook the expenses of the church, both spiritual and practical; the support of Pastor, staff, financial support for missionaries; meeting place, supplies, electricity, gas, water, phone, various ministries (youth camp, conferences), etc. 

Before the law was instituted, the Bible says that Abraham gave “tithes” to Melchisedec, the priest of the most high God (Genesis 14:18-20).

The word tithe means tenth.

Under the law, Israel was instructed to bring the tithes into the storehouse to meet the material needs of service to God, and in return receive blessings (Malachi 3:10).

When we come to the New Testament the Apostle Paul said that they that preach the gospel, should “live” of the gospel (I Corinthians 9:13, 14). Paul instructed the church at Corinth that the “collection for the saints” is to be brought into the church on the first day of the week (I Corinthians 16:1, 2).

But there is more. In the New Testament the principle of giving goes beyond the tithe. The Bible says every believer should give “as he purposeth in his heart” (II Corinthians 9:7).

“PURPOSETH” – giving is INTENTIONAL and PLANNED. And giving is not just about money. An easy way to remember God’s expectation of believers is that we give of our TIME, our TALENT, and our TREASURE. God’s return on your investment is summarized in Luke 6.

Luke 6:38 – Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.