That’s right. Too much tithing can stunt your growth as a giver (and the other givers in your church).
I had a conversation about tithing with my grandfather when he was 82 years old. He had tithed faithfully his entire adult life. But no one ever challenged him to think beyond 10% giving. As a result, he never grew into his full giving ability. This is a shame because Grandpa had a heart for God. He likely would have embraced the challenge if given an example to follow.
Too often the church is focused on the 90+% who give 2% or less of their income to the Kingdom. I believe Jesus wants to challenge the 5% who tithe as well.
For some folks, tithing may not even be considered "acceptable." Jesus called the rich farmer a fool. It was not because he was not a giver at all. He may have been a giver in some way…maybe even a tither. We don't know for sure. But his folly was that he was not “rich toward God” (Luke 12:21).
Tithing can be good for you, and your church. It has helped many people grow in their generosity. And it’s a wonderful practice for church funding. But it can also stand in its way by limiting our gifts.
As a church, if we are not encouraging all of our people in the giving journey – even the tithers—we can stunt the growth of many willing disciples…and even worse, the Church at large.
How about you? What’s been your experience with tithing?
