Question:
Did the ministers of the apostolic church receive support from the tithing system or from voluntary contributions? The epistolary writings do not command the system but state, “As a man purposes in his heart, so let him give.”
Answer:
Clearly, they were supported by both. Like new converts to the faith today, those who had fully joined the church undoubtedly paid tithes, which was not just a Levitical ordinance but also pertains to the Melchizedek priesthood; and Jesus serves as a priest after the order of Melchizedek.
This concept is reiterated in 1 Corinthians 9:13: “Know ye not that they which minister about sacred things eat of the things of the temple, and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?” This reference pertains to the priests and Levites who ministered in the temple of old. Historically, these priests and Levites were supported by tithes: the Levites received a tithe from all the people, and the priests received a tithe from the Levites.
The Apostle continues, “Even so [meaning in like manner], the Lord has ordained that those who proclaim the gospel should live by the gospel.” This indicates that it is the responsibility of the church to support the ministers of God in this current dispensation, just as it was the duty of the people to support the ministry in ancient times.
Our Lord’s words further reflect this when He pointed out to the Jews that they were very meticulous about small matters—paying tithes on mint, rue, and anise—which they should do, but neglected the more significant matters of the law: judgment, mercy, faith, and love for God (Luke 11:42). Additionally, Malachi 3 is certainly a prophecy concerning the Christian dispensation and suggests that the tithing system remains as binding now as it ever was.
