27 Powerful Bible Verses About Tithings and Offerings

Tithes and offerings have been integral aspects of the Christian faith for centuries. These practices involve giving a portion of one's income or possessions to support the work of God and the needs of others.

Throughout the Bible, numerous verses highlight the principles and importance of tithing and offering. These verses underscore the heart's intent, the recognition of God's blessings, and the responsibility to care for others.

Let us delve into the meanings and implications of 21 potent Bible verses that explore these concepts.

Genesis 14:20 - Abram Donated One-Tenth in Gratitude to God

"And blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand." And Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”

This verse highlights themes of divine providence, gratitude, and the practice of giving a tithe as an expression of faith.

Abram (later known as Abraham) acknowledged God's provision and sovereignty by offering a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek.

This act demonstrated recognition of God's blessings as Abram acknowledged God as his Heavenly Father and the one who helped him achieve victory over his enemies.

This acknowledgment was accompanied by an act of gratitude and devotion and this action is often referred to as a tithe.

It signified Abram's recognition of God's role in his success.

Leviticus 27:30 – Every Tithe Belongs to the Lord

"Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord's; it is holy to the Lord."

In this verse found in the Old Testament, God commands the Israelites to give a tithe, which is a tenth of their agricultural produce, to the Lord.

This practice of tithing was meant to recognize God's ownership of all things and to support the Levites, who were responsible for the religious duties in Israel.

Tithing was a significant aspect of Israelite religious and social life, emphasizing the idea of giving back to God from the blessings received from the land. 

Matthew 6:3-4 – God Rewards Genuine Giving

“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

In these verses, Jesus is encouraging his followers to practice generosity without seeking recognition or applause.

He uses the metaphor of the left hand not knowing what the right hand is doing to emphasize the idea of secrecy and anonymity in one's acts of charity.

The core message is that when we give freewill offerings to help those in need, we should do so with a pure heart and without the desire for public praise or admiration.

Instead, our motivation should be driven by genuine compassion and a desire to help others.

Deuteronomy 14:22– Tithing as a lesson of Obedience to God

"You shall tithe all the yield of your seed that comes from the field year by year.

23 And before the LORD your God, in the place that he will choose, to make his name dwell there, you shall eat the tithe of your grain, of your wine, and of your oil, and the firstborn of your herd and flock, that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always.”

Deuteronomy 14:22-23 are unique texts that advise that the tithes not be given to the Levites as usual, but that the people consume the tithe themselves.

The whole nation was instructed to eat it in the presence of the Lord at the designated place of worship.

This practice served to acknowledge God's provision and to share in a communal meal, strengthening the bond between the children of Israel and their faith.

The ultimate purpose of this act of tithing and consuming in the presence of the Lord is to cultivate reverence for God.

Proverbs 3:9-10 – Tithing First fruits Brings Blessings for God’s People

“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”

This passage encourages honoring God through tithes and offerings, promising abundant blessings as a result of faithful giving.

This verse reinforces the commandment to consistently set apart a tenth of one's agricultural produce, highlighting the benefits of tithing.

God is waiting to reward those who return their tithes with countless blessings.

Malachi 3:10 – Bringing the Tithes to God’s House Activates Blessings

“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”

In this passage, the prophet Malachi, calls on God’s people to bring their tithes to the "storehouse," which likely referred to God’s house, the place of worship.

God challenged the people to test him by faithfully tithing, promising abundant blessings in return.

Some church members claim this as their “offering verse” and link the rewards of tithing to a promise of material prosperity, while others link it to spiritual and mental well-being.

Either way Malachi challenged the believers to extend their faith through their actions.

Numbers 18:26- The Tithe of the Tithe

“Moreover, you shall speak and say to the Levites, ‘When you take from the people of Israel the tithe that I have given you from them for your inheritance, then you shall present a contribution from it to the Lord, a tithe of the tithe.”

This verse underscores the idea that even though the Levites were given tithes by the people, they were also expected to give a tenth of the tithes that they received as an offering to the Lord.

It reflects the principle of giving back to God a portion of what one has received, emphasizing the importance of stewardship and devotion.

Tithing was a universal practice, and no one was exempt from this requirement, not even those in priestly office.

Exodus 34:20 –God deserves your Firstborn and your Firstfruits

“All that open the womb are mine, all your male livestock, the firstborn of cow and sheep. 20 The firstborn of a donkey you shall redeem with a lamb, or if you will not redeem it you shall break its neck. All the firstborn of your sons you shall redeem. And none shall appear before me empty-handed.”

This verse is part of the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites, and it outlines the requirement to redeem the firstborn of all their animals and even the firstborn of their sons.

God’s people may have balked at the idea of “the firstborn of our sons”, but it was important to not appear empty-handed before God.

Bringing an offering sacrifice and living in obedience to God was very significant to the people 

Luke 18:11-12 – Tithing without a Repentant Heart is not True Worship

“The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’”

In this passage of scripture, a Pharisee and a tax collector are both praying in the temple.

The Pharisee, known for his religious devotion, stands before God and proudly lists his righteous deeds, including tithing and not sinning like others, namely the tax collector.

In contrast, the tax collector stands at a distance, beats his chest, and humbly pleads for God's mercy, acknowledging his own unworthiness.

We see where God honors the prayer of the tax collector who had a contrite heart but criticizes the pride and arrogance that followed the Pharisee's spiritual acts. 

Deuteronomy 16:17 – Proportionate Giving is Encouraged.

" Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God that he has given you."

This verse underscores the principle of proportionate giving. It emphasizes that offerings to God should not be a fixed amount but should be based on an individual's ability and the blessings they have received from God.

In other words, it encourages generosity and gratitude in one's relationship with God.

This verse is a reminder to share your resources and blessings with others in the spirit of faithfulness and gratitude. 

Genesis 28:20-22- Jacob’s Covenant of Faith and Commitment

“Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat and clothing to wear, 21 so that I come again to my father's house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God, 22 and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God's house. And of all that you give me I will give a full tenth to you.”

In this passage, Jacob finds himself alone in the wilderness with nothing but a stone for a pillow.

It's a moment of vulnerability and desperation. He turns to God, acknowledging his dependence and need for divine guidance.

As God responded to Jacob’s plea, Jacob made a vow which included a commitment to give a tenth of all he possessed to God.

This concept of tithing is a principle that we should honor in our times.

Jacob's promise reflected the idea of giving back to God a portion of one's blessings, acknowledging that all we have ultimately comes from the Divine.

Matthew 23:23 – Misguided Tithing Results in Rebuke

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.”

Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for emphasizing outward tithing while neglecting deeper aspects of justice and mercy.

They were very meticulous about religious rituals and legalism, but they had no concern for the poor and needy.

Genuine spirituality goes beyond outward acts of piety and requires a sincere commitment to justice, compassion, and faith.

Luke 21:1-4 – Little is Much when God Approves It.

“Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box, 2 and he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. 3 And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. 4 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”

This passage highlights the contrast between the wealthy and the poor widow. It teaches a valuable lesson about the nature of giving and the heart behind it.

While the rich gave out of their abundance, the widow gave sacrificially, offering all she had to God.

Jesus commends her for her generosity, saying that she has given more than all the others because she gave out of her poverty, while they gave out of their surplus.

This story reminds us that God values a sincere and sacrificial spirit more than he values the size of our offerings.

Matthew 6:21- The Treasure of Your Heart

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the connection between our heart's focus and our financial priorities, urging a spiritual perspective on giving.

Our hearts are automatically drawn toward that which we value the most.

As such, as we give our offerings, let us seek to prioritize spiritual growth, compassion, and love as pursue a meaningful life rather than becoming entangled in worldly possessions.

Acts 20:35 – There is a Blessing in Giving

“In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Acts 20:35 encapsulates a powerful lesson from the apostle Paul, emphasizing the virtue of generosity.

In this verse, Paul reminds us of the teachings of Jesus, highlighting the profound joy found in giving rather than receiving.

This principle underlines the importance of selflessness, empathy, and helping those in need through our own hard work.

In a world often driven by personal gain, this verse serves as a timeless reminder of the profound blessings that come from acts of kindness and generosity.

Romans 12:1- A Living Sacrificial Offering

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”

In this verse, Paul urges Christians to present their bodies as "living sacrifices" to God.

This imagery contrasts with the Old Testament practice of offering animals as sacrifices in the temple. Instead, Paul emphasizes a personal and ongoing commitment to God.

This verse highlights the idea that our lives, in their entirety, should be dedicated to God's service as an offering.

Paul also describes this offering as "spiritual worship."

It's a call to view our daily activities, work, relationships, and choices as acts of worship and our entire existence as an offering to God.

1 Corinthians 16:1-2 – A Systematic and Proportionate Offering

“Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do. 2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.”

Paul emphasized the need for a systematic approach to giving in these verses.

He instructed the Corinthians to set aside a portion of their income "on the first day of every week."

This regularity encouraged a disciplined and consistent commitment to supporting the church's mission.

We learn that contributions should be "in keeping with your income."

This principle underscores the idea that giving should be proportional to one's resources.

It's not about the amount but the heart behind the gift, ensuring that everyone can participate in supporting the church, regardless of their financial situation. 

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 – Cheerful Giving Pleases God

“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully[a] will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

In this verse, Paul uses agricultural imagery to convey a profound truth.

Just as a farmer who sows more seeds can expect a more abundant harvest, those who give generously can anticipate greater blessings in return.

This isn't necessarily limited to material wealth; it extends to the richness of relationships, joy, and a sense of purpose that often accompanies selfless giving.

It is very important to have genuine intent behind giving. Believers are encouraged to give from their hearts, without reluctance or coercion.

Giving should be motivated by love, compassion, and a sincere desire to help others. Giving is not merely a financial transaction, but an act of worship.

Philippians 4:18-19 – The Interconnectedness of Gratitude and Generosity

“I have received full payment and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Paul begins by acknowledging the generous support he received from the Philippian church.

He describes their financial contribution as a "fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God."

In this way, Paul helped the Philippians to realize that their gift was not only to Paul but to God Himself.

It highlights the idea that acts of generosity, motivated by love, are deeply meaningful to God.

He then reassures the Philippians that God is not only pleased with their generosity but will also meet their own needs abundantly.

This verse underscores the trustworthiness of God's provision and emphasizes the reciprocal nature of giving and receiving.

We too are encouraged to give as a sign of gratitude to God.

 1 Timothy 6:17-19- Wealth and Generosity

“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.”

In this Bible verse, Paul begins by acknowledging that God grants wealth as a blessing to some individuals.

As such being wealthy is not a sin, however, Paul warns against arrogance and the false security that wealth can bring. He advises the wealthy not to set their hope on uncertain riches but on God, who provides everything.

Paul then instructs the rich to be generous and willing to share to advance the kingdom of God.

As believers, regardless of our status, we are called to consider our resources to bless those in need, especially because generosity has eternal rewards.

Proverbs 11:25- Embracing Generosity

“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”

We are reminded in this verse that there is a profound connection between generosity and personal well-being.

It suggests that when we open our hearts and resources to help and uplift others, we not only benefit society but also ourselves. Giving is a cycle and we should embrace the value that comes with it.

This proverb speaks to the idea that the act of giving, whether it's material assistance, kindness, or support, can have a reciprocal effect on the giver.

Just as a refreshing rain nourishes the land, our acts of generosity can nourish our own lives, bringing joy, contentment, and a sense of purpose.