In an article for ChurchLeaders.com, Dean Shriver notes that the Bible discusses different approaches to tithing, and he argues that only one is appropriate for Christian preaching: “Ultimately, tithing as worship isn’t about percentage of income. It’s about the overflow of one’s heart.  2 Corinthians 8:5 is clear. When we first give ourselves to the Lord, any act of giving pleases Him—whether above or below the benchmark. ‘For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have’ (2 Corinthians 8:12).

“How then, can we preach the tithe? First, we recognize that tithing as covenant has no direct relevance to New Testament believers. Second, we acknowledge that tithing as legalism is just plain sin—for those who practice it and those who preach it. Only the principle of tithing as worship remains. That’s the tithing we can preach! Tithing as worship is our opportunity to acknowledge that God is God. He is ruler over our lives. He is the source of every blessing we enjoy. More than that, tithing as worship expresses our allegiance to God in a very personal and concrete way. Finally, tithing as worship manifests a heart overflowing with thanksgiving toward God.

“With this in mind, perhaps we should be less concerned with whether people tithe and more concerned with why they tithe. Ultimately, tithing isn’t about percentage of income or money in the plate. It’s about worship!” (Click here to read the full article.)

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