The Right Path: Tithing and Supporting Orphans as a Christian

As a Christian grappling with the decision to tithe 10% of your salary to orphans, it's crucial to navigate through the nuanced teachings of the Bible and the practical realities of fostering dependent children.

Understanding Tithing

To fully grasp the concept of tithing, it's beneficial to review the related Biblical passages. The practice of tithing originates in Deuteronomy 14-26 and Deuteronomy 26, outlining the obligations of the Israelites to support the poor, orphans, and widows through their tithes.

But with the shift to the New Testament, Christians are encouraged to give with a cheerful heart, as noted in 2 Corinthians 9:7: "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." This grace directive was a significant departure from the strict, legalistic obligations of the Old Testament.

Personal Responsibility and Faith

Your decision to support 25 orphans embodies a profound commitment to your faith, not just through monetary contributions, but also through your efforts in spreading the gospel and sustaining a community within a challenging living environment. Your motive, rooted in compassion and a desire to help those in need, is commendable. However, your approach of combining tithing with additional financial support to meet the basic needs of the orphans brings to light several critical points worth consideration:

Generosity and Trust

Your approach demonstrates a profound level of generosity, but it also highlights a fundamental lack of trust in the organizational structures meant to support orphans. It might be wise to ensure that your contributions are going directly to where they are needed most. Directing funds to a recognized and reputable humanitarian organization can ensure that your financial support has maximum impact and is used ethically and effectively.

Legal and Scriptural Interpretation

Some Christians believe tithing is a commandment under the New Covenant. The passage in Matthew 23:23 highlights the importance of addressing both spiritual and practical needs, which includes supporting the poor and needy. A church or organization that utilizes offerings for charitable causes, such as supporting orphans, can be seen as fulfilling this commandment.

The Process of Tithing

One of the key purposes of tithing under the Old Covenant was to support the Levites, the poor, orphans, and widows. This principle remains valid, and your decision to support orphans directly aligns with this biblical guidance. However, it’s essential to balance this with a clear understanding of your personal and spiritual responsibilities.

Looking Forward

Your efforts to support the orphans are a testament to your faith and generosity. However, navigating this journey ethically and effectively involves multiple considerations. Both tithing and further support can be done within the bounds of biblical guidance. It’s important to ensure that your actions are aligned with your faith and have a genuine and positive impact on those you seek to support.

Key Points to Consider:

Tithing is a commandment under the Old Covenant, though the New Covenant encourages cheerful giving. Your motives and intentions are crucial when deciding how to allocate resources. Direct support can be effective when paired with contributions through reputable organizations.

In all, your faith and dedication to supporting the orphans are commendable, and the journey to finding the right path is ongoing and lifelong. May your efforts continue to bring joy and hope to those in need.