Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse. (Mal. 3:10)
Stanley Tam started United States Plastic Corporation in 1936, with twenty-five dollars of his own, plus twelve dollars from his father. Eventually he legally made God the company’s majority owner with 51 percent of the stock going to a nonprofit, which gave all the earnings to God’s kingdom. Later, he felt impressed to give 100 percent of the profits to God, meaning he channeled all of it to gospel ministry.
What an outstanding example of Christian stewardship.
A recent survey asked Protestant churchgoers whether tithing is a biblical command that still applies today. More than 80 percent agreed that it is.
On the other hand, some Christians point out that, while it was an Old Testament command, it is not commanded in the New Testament. When Jesus challenged the Pharisees, he reminded them how carefully they tithed even their household spices, yet neglected the far more important matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He concluded, “You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former” (Matt. 23:23).
So, it could be said that tithing is commanded in the Old Testament and commended in the New Testament.
Paul said, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give” (2 Cor. 9:7). Whatever you give, are you putting God first? That is a key purpose of tithing.
Whatever you give, be sure to put God first.
Ron McClung is a retired minister in The Wesleyan Church. He and his wife, Carol, live in Michigan and enjoy spending time with their sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
