Lecture Notes: Understanding Biblical Tithing and the Levitical System

Introduction

• Discussion on tithing within the context of the Christian faith and its historical interpretation.
• Emphasis on obedience in religious practice without questioning.
• The concept of tithing often begins with Abraham in Genesis 14.

Tithing Before the Law

• Tithing predates Mosaic Law; it was an oral law recognized by patriarchs.
• Sin defined as transgression of the law, indicating knowledge of right and wrong before Moses.
• Instances from Genesis (Joseph, Noah, Adam) suggest an understanding of sin and righteousness.

Genesis 14: The Battle of the Kings

• A battle involving four kings against five, including Sodom and Gomorrah.
• Lot, Abram's nephew, is taken captive during this battle, prompting Abram to rescue him.
• Abram's wealth indicates his ability to muster 318 trained servants.
• Abram retrieves Lot and all possessions, including goods and victuals.

Melchizedek and Abram

• Melchizedek, king of Salem, a figure representing peace and righteousness, blesses Abram.
• Abram gives Melchizedek a tithe, which is often misconstrued as monetary.

Nature of Tithes

• Tithes were goods, property, and food, not money.
• Hebrew terms for victuals (food) and goods (possessions, livestock) emphasize non-monetary nature.

Biblical Definition of Tithes

• Leviticus and Deuteronomy specify tithes as agricultural products: seeds, fruits, herds.
• Tithes were intended for Levites, a tribe without land inheritance, reliant on others for sustenance.

The Role of the Levites

• Levites served in the temple and were supported by the other tribes through tithes.
• Every three years, tithes were stored within gates for Levites and those in need.

Malachi 3: Tithing Misinterpretations

• Misinterpretation of Malachi's "robbing God" as monetary theft.
• True context relates to withholding quality tithes (food) from Levites.
• God's curse for withholding quality offerings was agricultural failure, not financial.

Change from Levitical System

• With Christ, the Levitical sacrificial system was nullified; Christ became the High Priest.
• The term "change" in Hebrews 7:12 is better understood as "transfer."
• The priesthood and law were transferred to Christ's authority, maintaining continuity of the law.

Conclusion

• Tithing in the Bible was about sustaining the religious community, not about monetary gain.
• Modern interpretations often misconstrue the original intent, focusing on financial aspects.
• Understanding the historical and scriptural context is crucial to interpreting biblical texts correctly.