Sermon About Tithes and Offering: It's Important!
Tithing is important
Tithing is a biblical principle that teaches Christians to give 10% of their income to God. Tithing is also known as giving 10% of all money received in church.
Supported by Jesus Matthew 23:23/Luke 11:42 Jesus endorses tithing: “ …You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.” Mt 23:23
Implied in Paul Old Testament law of tithing—model for Christian giving 1 Cor 9:13
Annually everyone presented their tithes at the temple with eating and drinking (Deut. 14:23, 26).
Tithing is not just a commandment, but a principle that applies to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ. In fact, when Jesus was asked what he thought about paying taxes, He said “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's; and render unto God what is God's.” (Mark 12:17) This means that we should pay our taxes to the government, but we should also give 10% of our income to God.
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1: The Origin of Tithing: A Return to God (Malachi 3:10)
In Malachi 3:10, we encounter the call to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, as a way of returning to God what is rightfully His. Tithing is not merely a financial obligation but a spiritual discipline that acknowledges God's ownership and our role as faithful stewards. Let us explore the significance of returning to God through our tithes.
2: The Joy of Voluntary Contribution (2 Corinthians 9:7)
2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasizes the joy found in voluntary and cheerful contributions. Our giving should not be compelled by obligation but spring from a heart overflowing with gratitude. As we give willingly, our offering becomes an act of worship, reflecting the joy of our salvation.
3: The Generous Motivation: Loving the Lord’s Work (Proverbs 3:9-10)
Proverbs 3:9-10 urges us to honor the Lord with our wealth, recognizing that our material blessings come from Him. Our motivation for giving should stem from a genuine love for the Lord's work and a desire to see His kingdom advanced on earth. Let us explore the generous motivation that arises from a heart devoted to God.
4: Tithes and Offerings as Acts of Worship (Matthew 23:23)
In Matthew 23:23, Jesus teaches that tithing is an essential part of our worship, but it should be accompanied by justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Our financial offerings are not isolated acts but integral components of a life devoted to God in every aspect. Let us consider how our giving becomes a form of worship that pleases God.
5: The Privilege of Contributing to God’s Work (1 Chronicles 29:14)
1 Chronicles 29:14 highlights the privilege we have in contributing to the work of God. David's acknowledgment that all things come from God serves as a model for our own understanding of the privilege of being able to give. Our contributions, whether large or small, play a role in advancing God's kingdom.
6: Tithes and Offerings as an Expression of Trust (Proverbs 11:24-25)
Proverbs 11:24-25 teaches us about the connection between generosity and trust. The one who sows generously will reap generously, reflecting a deep trust in God's provision. Our giving becomes an expression of our faith and trust in God's promise to sustain us.
7: The Promise of Blessings to the Faithful Tither (Malachi 3:10)
Malachi 3:10 contains a promise of blessings to those who faithfully tithe. God invites us to test Him in this area, promising to open the floodgates of heaven and pour out blessings beyond measure. Let us explore the faithfulness and trust that underlie this divine promise.
8: The Importance of Integrity in Giving (Proverbs 28:20)
Proverbs 28:20 highlights the significance of integrity in giving. Honesty and consistency in our financial stewardship are crucial aspects of a pleasing offering to God. As we examine our hearts, may we strive for integrity in our giving.
9: The Offering as a Reflection of Gratitude for What We Receive (2 Samuel 24:24)
In 2 Samuel 24:24, David's response to Araunah emphasizes the importance of our offerings as reflections of gratitude for what we have received. Our giving is a tangible expression of thanksgiving for God's blessings and provision in our lives.
10: Christ's Generous Example (2 Corinthians 8:9)
Finally, 2 Corinthians 8:9 draws our attention to the generous example set by Christ. He, who was rich, became poor for our sake, demonstrating the ultimate act of selfless giving. Let us be inspired by Christ's sacrificial generosity as we consider our own contributions.
11. Offerings is important
Giving comes from a free-will, liberal (generous) offering to the Lord, as one purposes in his heart, not from a set amount (2 Cor. 8:5,8,12; 9:6-9)
Offerings are tangible expressions of a heart commitment to God
What is given is something of value and meaning – it has a cost to the giver
There is a benefit or blessing associated with the giving of offerings
Offerings is a means of thanksgiving and praise to God
Worship and joy are common denominators in the giving of offerings
There are several reasons why offering is important. First, it helps us to understand how much money we actually have. Second, it teaches us to live within our means. Third, it reminds us that we are stewards of God’s gifts. Fourth, it provides an opportunity to share with others. Fifth, it gives us a chance to serve others. Sixth, it allows us to help those less fortunate than ourselves. Seventh, it shows our love for God. And finally, it demonstrates our faith in Him.
Offering is regulated by one’s individual ability, not by a pre-determined amount for all (Acts 11:29).
Offerings is regulated by the proportion of one’s prosperity, not the percentage (1 Cor. 16:2)
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Conclusion:
As we conclude this exploration of tithes and offerings, may our hearts be stirred to approach giving with a renewed perspective. Let our contributions be rooted in gratitude, joy, and a generous love for the Lord's work. May our financial offerings be acts of worship, reflecting a deep trust in God's provision and a commitment to advancing His kingdom. May our giving be pleasing to our Heavenly Father, echoing the sacrificial generosity demonstrated by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In His name, we pray. Amen
