WHAT DOES "TITHE" MEAN?
Financial giving can be divided into two categories: tithes and offerings. Here at NSC we believe that the tithe is an act of obedience, while the offering is an act of generosity over and above the tithe. The Bible teaches us that we worship the Lord with our tithe, which is 10% of our income. The tithe is to be contributed to the church on a regular basis (Malachi 3:10). Throughout the entirety of the Bible, both in Old and New Testaments, giving a tithe to God is the continual standard. Even Jesus Himself said it should be done (Luke 11:42).
WHAT DOES "OFFERING" MEAN?
When we feel called to give over and above our tithe, we do so as an offering. Like our tithe, offerings should be given as an act of worship. "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH?
Giving acknowledges God as the giver of everything we have (James 1:17). Giving reflects our trust that God will provide for us (Matthew 6:19-24). Giving allows us to be active participants in God's work on earth (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
