Hi there! If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve been wondering about tithing. More specifically, you may be wondering to yourself, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church” It’s a big question, and really, it’s one many people wonder about. Tithing is just so individual, wrapped up in faith, finances, and how we wish to serve others.
So, let’s get at it here and work out what everything means—together, but not with a load of buzzwords, just genuine conversation.
Tithing has been going on forever, particularly if you’re a Christian. It’s that concept of giving 10% of whatever you make to God. A lot of people think that necessarily means giving it to the church, but suppose you feel moved to give to the poor instead? Is it okay? Is it still okay? Let’s take it a step at a time and try to figure this out.
What Does Tithing Even Mean, and can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church
First of all, let’s establish what tithing is. The term “tithe” literally is defined as “a tenth.” Back in the good ol’ days of the Bible—Leviticus and Deuteronomy type stuff—a tenth of one’s crops, animals, or whatever one produced was given to God. It was an act of gratitude and a means to support the priests and the temple. Now let’s skip to the present time, and tithing is giving 10% of one’s earnings to the church to most Christians. But this is where it gets interesting: the Bible doesn’t necessarily say the tithe must go directly to the church. In Deuteronomy 14:28-29, for instance, it discusses using some of the tithe to assist the poor, the widows, and the orphans. So when you ask, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”—well, there’s room to maneuver there. It’s not an outright “no.”
Nevertheless, many churches today preach that your tithe is theirs. They spend it on salaries, building expenses, missions, and all that stuff. And that’s great—churches do good things with it (typically). But if your heart’s urging you toward directly aiding someone in need, are you violating some holy mandate? Let’s continue looking.
Why Ask, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church
So why on earth are you even considering this? Perhaps you’ve noticed some people begging on the street, or you know a family barely able to make ends meet. You have this money saved for tithing, and you’re asking yourself, “Can I give my tithe to the poor rather than church?” It’s more personal, isn’t it? Like you’re actually doing something tangible you can see with your own eyes.
Or perhaps you’re not particularly stoked with your church these days. I understand—churches do get it wrong sometimes. Perhaps they’re blowing money on things you don’t feel comfortable with, or you’ve heard too many tales of pastors living high on the hog while others starve. It’s only natural to wonder. You’re not the only one to wonder, “Can I tithe to the poor rather than church?” Lots of people do.
There’s also this vibe in the New Testament—like in Matthew 25—where Jesus talks about helping “the least of these.” Feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick. It’s hands-on, gritty love. So, if you’re giving to the poor, doesn’t that line up with what Jesus cared about? It’s a solid point, and we’ll circle back to it.
Biblical Support for the Question, “Can I Pay My Tithe to the Poor Rather Than to Church?”
Okay, let’s open up the Bible for a moment. Like I said a minute ago, Deuteronomy 14 refers to a tithe every three years that’s designated specifically to the poor, widows, and foreigners. That’s Old Testament, absolutely, but it reveals God’s heart for those in need. Then, during the New Testament, things take a different turn. Tithing is no longer a rigid law—Jesus doesn’t dictate, “Thou shalt tithe 10% to the church or risk being smitten.” Rather, it’s being generous, from the heart (2 Corinthians 9:7).
So, when you’re struggling with “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”—the Bible doesn’t smack your hand and say, “No way, church only!” It’s more open than that. Acts 4:35 even depicts early Christians collecting money and donating it to anyone who was needy. No extravagant church building necessary. That’s quite inspiring, isn’t it?
What Does the Church Have to Say Regarding “Can I Give My Tithe to the Poor Rather Than Church?
Alright, let’s turn the coin over. If you go up to your pastor and say, “Can I tithe to the poor rather than church?”—what is he gonna say? Something like, “Well, the tithe is for the storehouse.” That’s a reference to Malachi 3:10, where we bring the full tithe into the storehouse so there will be food in God’s house. Most churches consider themselves that storehouse these days.
The reasoning is this: the church requires finances to operate. Pastors have to eat, lights have to remain lit, and missions don’t pay for themselves. If everyone began saying, “Can I give my tithe to the poor rather than church?” and then did it, the church could be in trouble. Valid point—organization requires cash.
But here’s the objection: not all churches utilize tithes in a manner that seems godly. Ever known a megachurch pastor purchasing a private airplane? Yeah, that happens. So, if you don’t know your tithe is benefiting the way you wish, it’s no wonder you’re saying, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”
Balancing Church and Charity When Asking, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”
Here’s a compromise that some people do: split the difference. Donate part of your tithe to the church and part to the poor. That way, you’re supporting the congregation that you worship with and assisting the needy. When you’re considering “Can I give my tithe to the poor rather than church?”—this may be a pragmatic solution.
For instance, perhaps you tithe 5% to your church and 5% to a homeless shelter. Or you tithe the entire 10% to the church but give additional offerings for the poor on top. It’s not rules—it’s what feels right to you and your faith.
Pros and Cons of Saying Yes to “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”
Let’s balance this out, pros-and-cons fashion. If you’re still hung up on “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”—this may help you make up your mind.
Pros:
Direct Impact: You get to see where your money is going. That single mom with three children? Your tithe just covered her rent.
Heart Alignment: If you feel God urging you to serve the poor, this is obeying that call.
Flexibility: No go-between. You decide who to help, with no questions asked.
Cons:
Church Support: Less church revenue might translate into fewer programs or reduced staff.
Community Ties: Tithing to church keeps you attached to your religious community.
Tradition: Some people feel awkward if they don’t do what everyone else is doing and tithe to the church.
So, what does your gut say? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to “Can I give my tithe to the poor rather than church?”—it’s your decision.
True Stories Regarding “Can I Tithe My Money to the Poor Rather than Church?”
I want to tell you about my friend Jake. He would tithe each month to his church no questions asked. One day, however, he met this guy, Tom, who was staying under a bridge. Tom was cold, hungry, and just needed assistance. Jake began to think, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church” So he did. He treated Tom to a meal, a coat, and even assisted him in getting a shelter.
Jake states that it was more “alive” than leaving money in the offering plate. Then there’s Sarah. She adored her church but felt uncomfortable about the way they spent money. She said, “Can I give my tithe to the poor rather than church?” and gave it a go. She gave to a food bank and felt wonderful—until her pastor corrected her for not tithing. Awkward, huh? These kind of situations demonstrate that it’s not always black-and-white.
Practical Tips for When You Ask Yourself, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”
If you’re inclined to give to the poor, here’s how to do it wisely:
Find a Need: Take a look around—soup kitchens, shelters, or even a struggling neighbor.
Give Wisely: Cash is good, but occasionally food, clothing, or paying a bill benefits more.
Keep Records: Record what you give, as you would for church. It’s tax-deductible and peace of mind.
So, when you ask, “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”—you’ve got choices. Make it work for you.
Final Thoughts on “can i give my tithe to the poor instead of church”
Here’s the bottom line: tithing’s personal. The Bible provides us with hints, but it doesn’t pin you down to one answer. When you’re wondering, “Can I give my tithe to the poor rather than church?”—you’re not crazy or disobedient. You’re simply attempting to live out your faith in a manner that makes sense to you.
Perhaps you’ll remain in the church. Perhaps you’ll serve the poor. Perhaps you’ll do both. Whatever you choose, it’s about lovingly giving, not guiltily giving. So, the next time you’re standing in front of your paycheck, thinking, “Can I give my tithe to the poor rather than church?”—trust yourself. You’ve got this.
What do you think? Do you ever attempt giving your tithe in another manner? Share a comment—i’d be delighted to see what you had to say!
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