The question of where to give tithes is an important one for Christians who want to honor God with their finances. The Bible does not give explicit instructions on whether all tithes must go to one’s local church or if some can be given to other Christian ministries. There are good arguments on both sides of this issue, which means Christians can hold different views in good conscience. Here is an overview of the key biblical principles and considerations around tithing and how Christians think about this topic.
What is a tithe?
The word “tithe” literally means “tenth” and refers to the practice in the Old Testament of giving 10 percent of one’s income/resources to the Lord. The tithe was basically a tax that supported the temple and priestly system under the Law of Moses. Some key verses on tithing include:
- Leviticus 27:30-33 – Establishes the tithe as belonging to the Lord.
- Numbers 18:21-24 – The tithes were for the Levites for their service in the temple.
- Deuteronomy 14:22-29 – A second tithe went to provide for religious festivals.
- Malachi 3:8-10 – Bringing the full tithe into the storehouse brought God’s blessing.
While the New Testament does not explicitly command Christians to tithe, many argue the principle of regular giving from our income/resources to support gospel ministry continues.
Tithing in the local church
Those who believe all tithes should go to one’s local church point to verses like:
- 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 – Those who work in the temple get their living from the temple.
- 1 Timothy 5:17-18 – Elders who direct the affairs of the church are worthy of double honor (financial support).
They argue that the “storehouse” of Malachi was the temple, so by application the church is now the storehouse for tithes. Just as tithes supported priests in temple service in the Old Testament, so tithes should support pastors and ministry needs in the local church today. The priority for giving from our income should therefore be the local church.
Some also point out the benefits of tithing directly into one’s local church:
- It develops faithfulness and commitment to your own congregation.
- It ensures the needs of that ministry are met, including pastoral salaries.
- It allows the elders to make ministry budgeting decisions.
So Christians who believe all tithes must go to the local church first cite the above biblical rationale. The local church should be the primary recipient of our giving off the top.
Giving some tithe to other ministries
Other Christians believe that while the local church should be the priority, there is freedom to give some percentage of tithe money to other Christian ministries as well. They point to principles such as:
- All giving is to the Lord to build his kingdom, not just a local congregation (2 Corinthians 9:6-15).
- Ministers can receive material help from multiple churches (2 Corinthians 11:8).
- We should support those who teach the Word wherever they are serving (Galatians 6:6).
Those who hold this view argue that as long as the local church is supported first and generously, believers have the freedom to also support other ministries they are passionate about. The key is ensuring the local church needs are met first and maintain open communication with church leaders.
Reasons some Christians give a percentage of their tithe to other ministries include:
- Wanting to support a missionary they know personally.
- Giving to a ministry focused on a specific need or group they care about (persecuted church, pro-life, etc.)
- Supporting Christian radio, publications, conferences, etc. that have blessed them.
- Sponsoring a child through a Christian organization.
- Supporting a Christian charity/organization meeting practical needs.
This allows them to directly support ministries aligned with their passions and calling. Of course, wisdom is still needed to support ministries that are doctrinally sound and using funds responsibly.
Guiding principles from Scripture
Given there are good arguments on both sides of this issue, here are some principles to consider based on relevant passages:
- Our giving is primarily to glorify God, not just benefit ourselves (2 Corinthians 9:12-15).
- All we have comes from God, so we only give back a portion (1 Chronicles 29:14).
- Tithing was commanded under Old Testament law, but not required in the same way for Christians.
- Giving generously should come from the heart, not compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7).
- The local church has priority in receiving support to meet budget needs (1 Timothy 5:17-18).
- There is freedom to support God’s work beyond just one congregation (2 Corinthians 11:8, Galatians 6:6).
- Leaders can give wisdom on giving that blesses the whole church (Acts 11:27-30).
In summary, while tithing specifically was an Old Testament command, generous giving should still characterize Christians today. The local church has a clear priority claim on our giving to support gospel ministry. But with that priority in place, Christians can also direct a percentage of their giving to support other ministries as they feel led. Biblical principles allow freedom here rather thandogmatic mandated percentages.
Practical considerations in where to give tithes
When deciding where to give tithes, here are some practical considerations:
- Current church financial needs – If the church budget is tight, it makes sense to give more to the local body first.
- Church leadership perspective – Talk to pastors/elders for guidance to ensure church needs are met.
- Ministry accountability – Only support well-run ministries using funds responsibly.
- Personal Passions – Consider ministries aligned with issues you care about most.
- Percentage division – You may give a larger percentage to the church and smaller amounts beyond.
- Prayerful decision – Ask God for wisdom in stewarding finances well.
Having an open conversation with church leaders about your desires to support other ministries can be very helpful. This allows you to still honor the local church while having some freedom to give elsewhere.
Questions for thoughtful reflection
Here are some questions to prayerfully consider when deciding where to give tithes:
- Do I faithfully give a generous portion of my income to my local church first?
- Am I supporting my church sacrificially so ministry needs are met?
- Do I know how my tithes specifically are used by my church?
- Are there other ministries I feel strongly led to support beyond my church?
- What percentage of my tithe would go to support other ministries versus my church?
- Have I discussed this desire with my church leaders?
- Am I continually praying for wisdom in how to steward my finances?
- Is my priority building God’s kingdom, or just my personal interests?
Wrestling with questions like these can help clarify if, when, and where to give tithe money beyond the local church. The key is seeking God’s wisdom and being led by biblical principles, not just personal preference.
Seeking unity in giving
Since Christians differ on exactly where tithe money should go, it’s important to extend grace, avoid judgment, and aim for unity. Romans 14:1-12 is a key passage on this issue. Christians should follow their conscience but not impose their opinions on others. God alone judges hearts and motives.
A generous, obedient heart matters far more than percentages and formulas. As long as church needs are met, there can be freedom in exactly where to give. The priority is advancing God’s work, not personal agendas. Giving should be done with wisdom, discernment, prayer, and counsel from leaders.
The body of Christ gets the most benefit when believers humbly discuss these issues and support each other. A diversity of ministries can work together to further God’s kingdom. As Chrisitans give sacrifically from a heart of worship, God will bless these offerings for his glory.
Conclusion
The Bible does not explicitly command where all tithes must go for Christians today. Strong cases can be made for giving either all to the local church or a percentage beyond the church. Biblical principles allow room for Christians to follow their conscience on supporting ministries aligned with their passions, as long as the local church is supported first. Open communication, prayerful consideration, wisdom, and a unified spirit are key when deciding where to give tithes. Most importantly, all believers should prioritize generous giving from the heart that ultimately advances God’s kingdom and brings him glory.
