Tithes, a term derived from the Old English word "teogotha," meaning "tenth," refers to the practice of giving one-tenth of one's income or produce to God. This practice is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition and is first mentioned in the Old Testament. The concept of tithing is established in the Mosaic Law and is seen as an act of obedience, worship, and acknowledgment of God's provision.

The earliest reference to tithing is found in Genesis 14:20, where Abram gives Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High, a tenth of everything. This act is significant as it predates the Mosaic Law, indicating that the principle of tithing was recognized even before the formal establishment of Israel's religious laws.

In the Mosaic Law, tithing is explicitly commanded. Leviticus 27:30 states, "Thus any tithe of the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD." The Israelites were instructed to bring their tithes to the Levites, who did not have an inheritance of land, as their portion was the service of the tabernacle (Numbers 18:21-24). The tithe supported the Levitical priesthood and facilitated the worship and religious life of the community.

Deuteronomy 14:22-29 expands on the purpose of tithing, emphasizing that it was also a means to provide for the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, ensuring that the community's needs were met. The tithe was to be brought to the place where God chose to establish His name, reinforcing the centrality of worship in the life of Israel.

In the New Testament, Jesus affirms the practice of tithing while emphasizing the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). The early church, while not explicitly commanded to tithe, practiced generous giving as a reflection of their commitment to Christ and the needs of the community (Acts 2:44-45; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

Tithing remains a significant practice in many Christian denominations today, viewed as a spiritual discipline that acknowledges God's sovereignty and provision. It serves as a reminder of the believer's responsibility to support the work of the church and care for those in need.

Confession

Confession, in the biblical context, refers to the acknowledgment and declaration of one's sins before God. It is an essential aspect of the Christian faith, emphasizing the need for repentance and the seeking of God's forgiveness. Confession is both a personal and communal act, reflecting a heart of humility and a desire for reconciliation with God.

The Old Testament lays the foundation for confession, particularly in the sacrificial system where the Israelites were required to confess their sins as part of the atonement process (Leviticus 5:5). Confession was integral to the Day of Atonement, where the high priest confessed the sins of the people over the scapegoat, symbolically transferring their sins and seeking God's forgiveness (Leviticus 16:21).

The Psalms frequently highlight the importance of confession, with David's penitential psalms serving as profound examples. In Psalm 32:5, David declares, "Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not hide my iniquity. I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,' and You forgave the guilt of my sin." This verse underscores the assurance of God's forgiveness upon genuine confession.

In the New Testament, confession is closely linked to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. John the Baptist called for confession of sins as part of his baptism of repentance (Matthew 3:6). The Apostle John emphasizes the ongoing need for confession in the believer's life, stating, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

Confession is also a public declaration of faith. Romans 10:9-10 highlights the importance of confessing Jesus as Lord, stating, "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." This confession is a proclamation of allegiance to Christ and an acknowledgment of His lordship.

In the life of the church, confession is practiced both individually and corporately. James 5:16 encourages believers to "confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed." This mutual confession fosters accountability, healing, and spiritual growth within the community of faith.

Confession remains a vital practice for Christians, serving as a means of maintaining a right relationship with God and others. It is a continual reminder of the need for God's grace and the transformative power of His forgiveness.