Numbers 18:21 *I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting*
A MORE EXCELLENT WAY
Some of you may find this teaching on tithing a bit different from what you've been taught. I just want you to open your heart and allow the Holy Spirit minister to you about it. No form of giving is to be forced on believers because God wants a willing offering not something given by coercion.
In some churches, the emphasis on tithing is drawn from Malachi and the preacher threatens those who do not comply with devourers and cankerworms. They may even have a few negative testimonies to reinforce fear into people's hearts. The result is always fearful giving instead of giving to worship and honour God.
The text often used for that is Malachi 3:8-10. They failed to realize that God was talking to the nation of Israel who were bound by the obligatory law of tithing in that dispensation under the Aaronic order of priesthood. It does not apply to those of us under the priesthood of Christ. Why?
Hebrews 7:12 says, *"And if the priesthood is changed, the law must also be changed to permit it*".
Hebrews 4:14-15 says, *"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin*".
Priesthood of Christ and its operations is different from the priesthood of Aaron. Under the latter, you are bound by strict legal codes to obtain righteousness but under the former, the Spirit of God leads every believer to act in love.
Now you may ask, If this is the case, why still talk about tithing under this dispensation? Just as I explained previously, the principle of tithing(honour&worship) and purposes are transtestamental. They are not limited to the old covenant. It applies to us today as well but it not something to be done in fear.
The early church took it a step higher by giving generously (lavishly). Some sold properties to support the church. Obviously, that is much more than 10%. They did not give with a fixed percentage because in their time, the Holy Spirit showed them a more excellent way- generous giving.
II Corinthians 9:5 says, *"Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to go to you ahead of time, and prepare your generous gift beforehand, which you had previously promised, that it may be ready as a matter of generosity and not as a grudging obligation*" (NKJV).
The early church was generous in their giving. I am sure 10% was their benchmark because If those under the old covenant gave a fixed percentage rigidly, those under the grace of God should not do less because to whom much is given, much is expected. For me and you, the goal should be generous giving. However, the journey starts from giving 10% consistently.
Those who have disciplined themselves to give a tenth to God consistently over time will not have problem giving generously to God. They'll just discover that they need to upgrade. This is what happened to me years ago.
*Dearest, do not withhold your substance from the Lord. Do not join the bandwagon of those who think they are doing their pastor a favour by tithing. Your giving is worship and honour to God. He is your source. As you experience increase, honour him*.
Father, I receive the grace to honour you with my substance in Jesus name.