Common Questions & Biblical Insight About Tithing & Giving

Basic Questions

“Does the Southern Baptist Denomination fund Westwood Baptist Church?”

No. Southern Baptist Churches are autonomous. That means they are self-governing and self-supporting. They receive no denominational funding. In fact, most SBC churches contribute to the denomination in order to fund its worldwide work and missions programs. The only support our church receives is that which is given to it through the gifts and tithes of friends and members like you. That’s why everyone’s faithful giving is so essential.

“How are my gifts used?”

Your giving through tithes and offerings go to support the ongoing annual ministry budget plan. That plan includes special projects, mission support and ministries to all ages as well as fixed ministry operating expenses related to the facility and staff.

“Is it true that my tithe and gifts to Westwood Baptist Church are tax deductible?”

Absolutely.

“Who determines how the receipts are spent and accounted for?”

The church decides. Each year a church appointed stewardship committee working with leaders throughout the congregation, studies, plans and recommends an annual ministry budget to the church. This budget is then discussed by the congregation in several sessions and finally voted on by the entire church family. Further, accountability for this plan is monitored throughout the year by the above mentioned stewardship committee. Major expenditures not covered under the ministry budget are brought before the congregation for approval. Professional accounting procedures are used to maintain all records.

Biblical Insights

“What is tithing?”

Tithing is mentioned thirty-nine times in the Bible, and in each case it means “a tenth part.” Again in Genesis 14 it says that Abraham “tithed to the Lord;” the New Testament explanation of that event, Hebrews 7:2-4 says that it was 10%. Numbers 18:26 speaks of the Levites “tithing off of the tithe” by giving 10% to the Lord from their income.

“Do the New Testament and Jesus teach tithing?”

People often mistake the N. T. truth that since “everything” belongs to God, tithing is obsolete and merely an O. T. law. It is true that everything belongs to God, but Jesus clearly taught that He came not to violate the O. T. laws but to enhance them. If anything, living under His grace should cause us to go beyond the law, which Jesus plainly taught when He communicated the principle of the extra mile. Further, the Apostle Paul taught, in 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 the concepts of proportional giving, which would most certainly be no less than the minimum tithe. Additional N. T. references to tithing can be found in Hebrews 7:5-9.

“What if I go broke by giving a minimum of a tithe to God?”

In God’s economy, the Bible teaches that the more a person sows, the more they reap (Gal. 6:7). Jesus said, “Give and it shall be given unto you, “ (Luke 6:38). Paul discussed giving to ministry in Philippians and concluded his discussion by saying, “And my God shall meet all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Certainly, many prosperity teachers have distorted the sowing/reaping principle—but none-the-less it remains a scriptural truth when practiced and understood correctly. In Malachi 3, God instructs His people to bring their tithe to His storehouse in order to prove His generosity, as He blesses them in return.

“Where should I give my tithe?”

In the Old Testament, the tithes and offerings were brought to the place of worship, which today is the local church. This practice continued into the New Testament and beyond. The most definitive verse in the matter is Malachi 3:10 that instructs us to “bring the tithe into the storehouse.” The storehouse represents God’s designated place of (corporate) worship; the place where His people are spiritually fed and nurtured. This would suggest the local church. The Apostle Paul argued that financial giving to the local church enabled the support of the elders and bishops for the work of ministry.

“Does the Bible discuss finances and giving frequently?”

Yes. In fact, it is one of the most discussed matters in all of scripture. Why? Perhaps, because nothing tends to demonstrate a person’s devotion and priorities like the way they steward their finances and resources. That’s why Jesus said, “for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:21)

“Are there other scripture passages that will assist me in obeying God through giving?”

Yes. Here’s a partial list of additional Bible passages related to giving. Psalm 96:8-9; Deuteronomy 16:16-17; Leviticus 27:30; Luke 8:1-3; Philipians 4:15-18; Luke 6:38; Luke 12:15; 2 Corinthians 8-9

Benefits of Tithing

Tithing Builds Character

Tithing indicates moral strength and self-discipline. Further, by it we develop a greater sense of trust in God that strengthens our inner-life which is the basis for our character.

Tithing Organizes Life Around God’s Purposes

Tithing brings contentment and a sense of joy at obeying God. It helps keep our focus on things eternal and the purposes of God to change the lives of others.

Tithing Opens the Door for God to Use and Bless You

God’s word teaches that our obedience puts us in the position to make a difference in the lives of others and to experience God’s blessing for our own lives. Likewise, we cannot expect God’s favor if we do not follow His instructions. This certainly includes the area of giving. (See Malachi 3:10)