Since the fulfillment and completion of all the commandments took place on that very day of Shavuot (Pentecost), as recorded in the Book of Acts when Ruach HaKodesh (the Holy Spirit) was poured out on the disciples, we first need to take a closer look at this book to understand how the laws of tithes and offerings truly work, and how they are meant to be applied and lived out. As we read in the Epistle to the Galatians, the law was our teacher — our guide — leading us to the Messiah. But from that point on, everything began to work differently: the Messiah Himself, along with His Spirit living in us, now guides us in understanding His will — that is, the law. So, when we are filled with His Spirit, it is Ruach HaKodesh Himself who leads us back to the commandments and helps us understand and live them as they were truly meant to be.
Previously, I published two writings: The Acts of the Disciples and You will own nothing and be happy. In the latter, I specifically address how the financial and social structure of the Church—the Body of the Messiah—is meant to function even today. More precisely, I’m not introducing anything new, but simply reminding us of what has been written in the Book of Acts for the past 2,000 years. I also emphasize that we should live today no differently than the disciples did back then.
However, unlike them, we unfortunately rarely live in such closeness and direct connection with one another.
So how did the first disciples live?
Just as the fulfillment of the Commandments from the Old Testament was realized on that Shavuot day described in the Book of Acts with the outpouring of Ruach HaKodesh, likewise, the laws governing the social structure and functioning of the chosen people were fulfilled in their most perfect form at that very time as well. This becomes especially clear when we read Acts 4:32 to 5:16:
And now Yahuwah look on their threats and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word by stretching out Your hand to heal and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Son Yahushua. And when they had prayed the place where they were assembled together was shaken and they were all filled with Ruach HaKodesh and they spoke the word of Elohim with boldness. Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Yahushua and great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold and laid them at the apostles’ feet and they distributed to each as anyone had need. Acts 4:29-35
When the sacrificial death of Yeshua on the cross, His resurrection, ascension, and the outpouring of His Spirit were accomplished, Yahushua Himself became the Head of the Church. Thus, Ruach HaKodesh—His Spirit, that is to say, He Himself—became its organizer and ruler. As a result, the disciples were spiritually elevated to the rank of the Levites. Therefore, every law concerning the Levites, as engraved in the Torah, also applies to us.
In the Eternal Sanctuary, we are all co-workers of the One and Only High Priest, Yahushua, according to the order of Melchizedek. Consequently, the laws concerning the high priests apply to Him, while those concerning the Levites apply to us. Naturally, all the other laws are likewise valid, insofar as it is Ruach HaKodesh who establishes them within us and calls us to obey them in order to bring them into practice — as I have written about in more detail elsewhere and on many occasions.
In Commandments in Yahushua HaMashiah?, and in The Essence of the Law, and also in Death penalty (where LIFE begins)
Tithe | Offering in the Service of the Body of Messiah
In Acts 4 and 5, we clearly see that, having become Levites in a spiritual sense and serving in the Eternal Sanctuary alongside Yahushua, our High Priest, we—just like the Levites of old, according to the flesh—own nothing of our own and have no earthly inheritance.
What does this mean for us today?
We return once again to the fundamental question:
Do I have my Covenant with the Messiah? Is it valid? Is it alive and active? Am I truly a Levite in the spiritual sense?
If the answer is yes, then my entire being—everything that belongs to me: my income, my work, my family, my time, my earthly possessions—must serve the building of the Sanctuary/Elohim’s Kingdom.
The financial resources I earn must be used solely for this purpose. For example, if I need to spend money on fuel to commute to work and provide for my family, that too serves the Sanctuary. After all, my well-being and that of my family, along with a healthy and balanced lifestyle, contribute to strengthening the Sanctuary—that is, the Body of Messiah—so that I can fulfill the ministry in good health and be a living example and testimony to others.
This is why it is essential to pray continually and ask the Spirit of Messiah to guide us and show us inwardly when and how to invest our resources.
Every possession registered in our name—although legally ours according to worldly law—must ultimately serve the community, the shared Sanctuary, and the functioning and growth of the Body of Messiah. This does not mean we are to constantly redistribute everything we own among ourselves, but rather that our entire way of life should reflect our consecration. Every expense and every meal we partake in should align with the goal of sustaining, strengthening, and fulfilling our ministry.
For this reason, any excess weight is nothing less than a direct and proportional reflection of the corresponding spiritual disorder—a sign of greed and lack of self-discipline, as I explain in my teaching on Kashrut (the laws of kosher eating).
In this sense, for us, tithes and offerings are no longer separate matters but are intertwined, becoming a general principle. Our tithe and offering belong to our One and Only High Priest, as well as to our fellow Levites who are in need while we have abundance.
The greatest model of tithes and offerings is presented to us by the Master Himself in a parable that most clearly illustrates the primary intention that should motivate our giving:
And when Yeshua looked up He saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury and He also saw a certain poor widow putting in two mites and He said Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all of them for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for Elohim but she out of her poverty has put in all the livelihood that she had. Luke 21:1-4
As we read in Acts 4 and 5, no one had more or less than they needed—everyone was provided for, each according to their need from the shared resources. These days, we don’t live together in a single community. We’re in different places, and we don’t always have a clear view into each other’s lives. That means we often have to speak up or find ways to let others know when we’re in need.
At the same time, we should be constantly seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit—Ruach HaKodesh—to show us who to give to, when, and what to give. What we offer might be spiritual, emotional, or practical support: a prayer, a quick phone call, a visit, a kind word, a Bible verse, a bag of flour, a pair of shoes, or even some financial help.
If you feel like you have more than enough—whether it’s money, time, knowledge, or a skill—don’t let it just sit there, like the talent buried in the parable. Ask our High Priest to show you which fellow believer is in need of what you’ve been given, because they might be lacking in exactly that area. That moment of need could even be a test of their faith. Who are they trusting to provide? And if they stay faithful and keep waiting on God, He’ll send someone their way with exactly what they need. That someone… could be you.
That is why it is crucial for both parties to remain in obedience at all times—so that the connection can be made.
Those who still gather in traditional weekly Christian meetings—usually on Sundays—continue the routine of plastered-on smiles and shallow, scripted exchanges like “How are you?” “Good, glory to the Lord.” They sit through passive sessions of theological-philosophical talk, sermons as thin as watered-down milk—lacking true substance—then rush back to their homes, returning to isolated lives among non-believers, each one sealed off in their own little bubble.
But those of us who have stepped out of these sheepfolds—driven by the longing to return to the original form—we strive to stay genuinely connected. Whenever the Spirit leads and circumstances allow, we meet face to face. We don’t drop our contributions into a central bank or offering plate managed by a leadership class who divides the resources among themselves instead of among the community, unlike the first apostles who distributed everything lawfully and fairly.
Instead, as equal brothers and sisters, we speak, discern, and decide together—guided by the Spirit—who is in need and how best to help. Our tithes and offerings go exactly where our Master directs—not into the pockets of self-appointed, humanly anointed false servants.
Still, because we are few in number and often separated by great distances, the cost of travel and lack of time often stand in the way.
Tithe | Offering in the Ministry of Prosperity Gospel Preachers
Your tithes and offerings only fulfill their true purpose—becoming a real blessing—when those receiving them, whether a pastor, teacher, humanly anointed servant, congregation, or network, are genuinely contributing to the building up of the Body of the Messiah.
Even so, human churches and alternative assemblies—however illegitimate in structure—can sometimes serve a purpose. Some are at least capable of accompanying souls through the threshold of new birth.
Most of us can say that we were born again within one of these systems: a denomination, a charismatic network, a Protestant or neo-Protestant institutional church. And though we remained spiritually malformed for years—since these systems were never truly designed to bring anyone to maturity, but rather to grow and maintain membership—we were, in fact, born again.
So even if it was not wise to pour your tithes and offerings into such places or into the hands of such people, it was not entirely in vain.
Do not blame yourself for what may feel like wasted time, energy, or resources. Don’t carry shame for having once given childishly to those who were unworthy of your trust.
Do not condemn yourself neither—because on the one hand, much of it was taken from you through psychological manipulation, appealing to your innocence and fear: “If you don’t give, you’ll be cursed,” as they shouted into their microphones all the time.
But on the other hand, you gave from a pure heart. You gave joyfully and innocently to your captors at the time, because you loved them. You were grateful for their ministry—even if it was flawed, even if it was false. In the end, they were your spiritual parents—for a certain time.
But now, you have grown up—or if not, it is high time to step into spiritual adulthood. It is time for you to live independently. It is time for you to serve others.
You no longer rely on a single place for nourishment or encouragement, no longer dependent on one stream to help you reach maturity. Instead, as you walk your own path—guided by the Ruach—you begin to meet other brothers and servants. Some of them, at times, will face hardship or lack. Their work may need support in order to continue.
Now, it’s your turn to ask and to receive instruction directly from above—on how to serve, whom to help, and in what way. Not through intermediaries. Not through institutional channels. But directly from the Ruach HaKodesh, who dwells and moves within you.
By now, you ought to know how to take part in the building of the Sanctuary—with your own hands, your understanding, your influence, your tools, your money, and all the resources Elohim has entrusted to you.
All this is given to raise up your brothers, to strengthen those who are weak, to lift each member until no one has more or less than they need—just as we read in the Book of Acts.
Ruach HaKodesh will show you exactly who among us—the true members of the Assembly—is in need, and when.
But you must be alert. And you must be ready to act.
If you see your brother’s donkey or his ox fallen down on the road, do not turn away from them. You must surely help him lift them up again. Deuteronomy 22:4
One of my favorite commandments—because it encompasses everything: piety, tithing, offerings, patience, selflessness, and above all, love for one’s neighbor. The purpose of tithes and offerings is not only to support the community but also to prevent poverty from spreading within the people.
And when we help those outside the faith—whether through ministry, the Word, or financial aid—every effort, every moment of our time, and every cent we give should serve a single goal: to invite them and help them enter the Sanctuary. Our support should never be used to satisfy fleeting pleasures, like buying a drink in a pub or indulging in meaningless distractions.
As a natural result of your rebirth, spiritual maturity, and growing independence, you will eventually stop financially supporting those so-called “spiritual parents” who never allowed you to grow. While your generosity may, to some extent, help increase the number of new disciples, it far more significantly strengthens those who keep others trapped in spiritual infancy—ultimately doing more harm than good.
Do not support enslavers and oppressors, for these ones lives in rebellion—and rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft. The Law clearly states: You shall not allow a sorceress to live. Exodus 22:17
This doesn’t mean putting her to death physically, but rather making it spiritually impossible for her to continue. In other words, you must ensure she cannot make a living off that sin. You stop contributing to it—you no longer support it in any form, neither in prayer nor financially.
This applies not only to women, of course, but also to men. However, if it is a woman, the situation is even more serious—because except in very rare cases, women are not meant to teach or take on pastoral roles at all. The excessive feminization we see today in the Christian world—as well as in the world at large—will soon be purged by severe judgment. Sadly, this purification won’t come in the world as we currently know it, but only in the soon-coming Kingdom of the Messiah.
As a result of your rebirth, spiritual maturity, and growing independence, you will come to know true brothers and sisters—those who actively work for the good of the community. Alongside them, you will serve as a complementary support. In essence, you will share what you each have: exchanging tithes and offerings with one another.
One may be rich in wisdom, another gifted in healing above the average, and yet another blessed with material resources. Those who walk in obedience will be guided by the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit), who will reveal who should contribute, what they should give, and when—to support the calling and mission of their fellow servant.
An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth
This commandment also applies in a positive sense.
Did someone give you an “eye”—helping you see more clearly in the spirit? Then give back to their eye as well, so they may gain even greater vision and continue pouring into others. In other words, provide them with the means to spend more time in Elohim’s presence and service, so they can help illuminate the eyes of others just as they did yours.
Did you receive a “tooth” from a servant—perhaps through a message, a deliverance ministry, or a prayer with the laying on of hands—through which you learned to stand before Elohim on your own, in obedience, without needing human intermediaries? Have you learned to chew on the solid food of the Word yourself, instead of staying in spiritual infancy and dependence?
Then give back a “tooth” to the one who gave you that blessing—that is, provide for their physical needs as well, so they have something to eat and can continue this ministry of strengthening others who are still trapped in spiritual immaturity.
Few are granted the opportunity to serve full-time, and we’re not expected to dedicate ourselves exclusively to the Sanctuary at all times and under every circumstance. Ministry is often part-time or occasional; it’s a living, dynamic calling—just like the Sanctuary itself.
Even someone as prominent as Paul often supported himself by making tents while ministering. But at other times, it was the brotherly community that took care of him—offering shelter, clothing, food, encouragement, prayers, and even financial support.
And yet today, we see countless so-called “full-time servants” who expect their flock to support them—financially, and in abundance.
Many still believe they’ve been called by the Lord into full-time ministry.
But in reality, it’s often not the voice of the Lord they’re hearing, but the echo of their own carnal desires—rooted in a deep-seated need to rule over others.
This, too, has become a career—and it’s built by “churchmen and women” just like any other, by those who serve Mammon.
Just look at the pastors of the traditional, historical churches: after completing their theology degree, they’re handed a flat or a house, a car, and the church even covers their utility bills and gas—on top of a monthly salary. All this so they can give a half-hour monologue on Sundays to the dwindling handful of elderly believers still occupying the pews.
If they happen to be especially enthusiastic and genuinely faithful—since faith has long stopped being a requirement for earning a theology degree—they might pay a visit or two during the week to an elderly lady, offering her a bit of “spiritual care.
And the truly zealous ones might even organize a youth meeting on Wednesday night.
But let no one think the situation is any better in neo-Protestant, Pentecostal, or charismatic circles.
In summary, regarding these false churches and prosperity preachers:
We must above all pray for these jailers—blinded by the lure of money—and in no ways support them.
Pray that they turn from their delusion, that these structures collapse in their current form and cease to cause further harm. Implore Yahuwah of Hosts to free those they keep captive with chains of religiosity—so that these prisoners might be released and finally become true disciples, joining the only universal Church: the one that is spiritual, not built of stone, not recognized or partially subsidized by the state.
Tithes and offerings are reserved for those who not only belong to the Body of the Messiah, but who also serve according to the commandment of Yahushua, our High Priest.
Not as some “junior high priest,” running a parallel operation as head of their own franchise, but with humility—under Yahushua’s authority and at His side—as His faithful servant, for His glory alone, and for His Church. Certainly not by appropriating biblical concepts and turning them into mere marketing labels—branding them as stamps of authority in order to capture souls, to their own ruin.
Catholic? (That is, in its original sense, “universal”?)
Lutheran? Evangelical? Evangelist? (Usurping the very concept of the Gospel?)
Reformed? (Claiming to restore the original, but having stopped halfway?)
Baptist? (As if baptism and immersion belong to them?)
And what about all the others: Church of Faith? Sabbatarians? Pentecostals? Alpha courses? Omega Networks? Agape Communities? And all the rest—small or large corporations, officially registered and state-funded?
But I have good news: Elohim often turns what people do wrong for the good of His Kingdom. Those who seek Him will find Him in due time—even if others try to stand between them and Elohim. But woe to those through whom this happens.
Tithe and Offering—According to Paul
The apostle Paul repeatedly emphasizes that he certainly would have the right to receive material support, yet he deliberately chooses to provide for himself through his own labor—so as not to be a burden on the various communities. Several biblical passages address this very topic:
1Corinthians 9:6-14
Is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working Who goes to war at his own expense If we have sown spiritual things for you is it a great thing if we reap your material things Those who minister in the temple live from the things of the temple and those who serve at the altar partake of the offerings of the altar Even so Yahuwah has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel
Galatians 6:6
Let him who is taught in the word share in all good things with him who teaches.
1Timothy 5:17-18
Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor especially those who labor in the word and teaching for the Scripture says You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the grain and The laborer is worthy of his wages
Since even in those early days deviations had already begun to appear within the Church—and since one of Paul’s missions after the time of the Acts of the Apostles was to write to assemblies that were straying—he chose to provide for his own needs through his own labor. He preferred this rather than depending on so-called “brothers” whose lives already displayed clear signs of greed and materialism.
Acts 18:3 (in Corinth)
And because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked for by occupation they were tentmakers
1Corinthians 9:12, 15
But we have not used this right but endure all things lest we should hinder the gospel of the Messiah (…) It were better for me to die than that any man should make my boasting void
2Corinthians 11:7-9
Have I committed an offense in abasing myself that you might be exalted because I have preached to you the gospel of Elohim freely? I robbed other congregations taking wages from them to serve you. And when I was present with you and lacked I was chargeable to no man for that which was lacking to me the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied.
2Thessalonians 3:7-9
You yourselves know how you ought to follow us for we did not behave disorderly among you nor did we eat anyone’s bread for nothing but worked with labor and toil night and day that we might not be a burden to any of you not because we do not have the right but to make ourselves an example for you to follow.
Paul acknowledges that he had every right to receive material support, even citing the Old Testament: The worker deserves his wages. Deuteronomy 25:4; Luke 10:7. Yet he chose instead to provide for his own needs through his own labor. He did this to avoid being a burden on the churches and so that no one could accuse him of seeking personal gain.
He was compelled to take this path because the Church of his time—much like the Church today—was so consumed by greed that it was even capable of letting those who brought them the very Word of Life go hungry.
How Does This Work for Us?
On our website and YouTube channel, we also ask for donations and financial support. Sadly, it’s necessary to do so—because the selfish nature of people, even among disciples, often shows itself in their desire to receive everything for free without ever giving anything in return. Many would rather take the stance of a naïve child, using the abuses they’ve seen in certain churches as an excuse to dodge their responsibility and avoid this important duty.
Just because you’ve seen false pastors—greedy for wealth and obsessed with material things—or prosperity preachers using spiritual manipulation to squeeze money out of people by saying things like, “If you don’t give, you won’t receive, and you’ll be cursed,” that doesn’t give you the right to pull back, close yourself off, and sit passively on your hands.
Once again: don’t swing from one extreme to the other.
Let no one assume that the matter of tithes and offerings is now obsolete, or that they are personally exempt from it. If there’s still any trace of deceit or material attachment within you—if your “old self” hasn’t truly died—then you are no different from those unworthy false servants who claim to serve our Master, whom they call Lord Jesus Christ, not out of love, but for money and recognition.
Your role isn’t just to call out false ministers; it’s also to purify your own mind by renewing it, so you can restore what was original where lies have twisted it. The answer isn’t to reject the Word just because others have hijacked and corrupted it—it’s to pray and labor for its cleansing and restoration.
And yet, some still comment under my videos saying things like, “It was disappointing to see a donation request at the end.” That kind of attitude isn’t just petty—it’s a glaring display of how pathetically selfish some people’s mindset truly is.
Fully aware of the materialistic state of today’s Church, I’ve often prayed to Elohim, asking Him to allow me to provide for my family and myself through secular work—through my own profession, like Paul did with tentmaking—rather than relying on a largely ungrateful body of believers. Honestly, I would prefer that our provision not depend on you. And Elohim has graciously answered that prayer: we have everything we need. Sometimes it’s a struggle—but in the end, we lack nothing.
There are some brothers and sisters, like the poor widow, who support us even from their limited means—giving small but meaningful amounts. And in doing so, they put to shame those who have plenty, yet won’t even part with their excess.
Anyone who justifies withholding, thinking they’re exempt from expressing love in this tangible way—while deep down knowing it’s wrong—should remember what happened to that infamous couple in the Book of Acts. They gave, yes—but not with a pure heart. And they lied before the Father. You know the truth well—because you’ve read it many times—that among others, the greedy and the selfish will not inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.
When You May Consume Your Own Tithe and Offering
There is a particularly interesting case among the commandments regarding tithes and offerings, which we find in Deuteronomy 14:22-26, and it reads as follows: You must faithfully tithe all the increase of your seed that the field produces year by year. You shall eat in the presence of Yahuwah your Elohim, in the place He chooses to establish His name—the tithe of your grain, your wine, and your oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks—so that you may learn to always fear Yahuwah your Elohim. But if the journey is too long for you, so that you cannot carry the tithe, or if the place where Yahuwah your Elohim chooses to set His name is too far, when Yahuwah your Elohim has blessed you, then you may exchange it for money. Take the money in your hand and go to the place Yahuwah your Elohim chooses. Then spend the money on whatever you desire—cattle, sheep, wine, strong drink, or anything else your heart desires. There, in the presence of Yahuwah your Elohim, you shall eat and rejoice, you and your household.
Supporting ministry—both our own ministry and the ministry to others—must be a continuous part of our lives. But there are also moments when we enjoy something our soul desires, simply for our own joy. Even in those moments, though, let’s not forget that it should happen in the place Yahuwah has chosen, and in His presence!
This could mean a vacation, a material reward, or anything else that brings joy. Of course, as born-again believers, we submit those choices to His will—just like we do with everything else.
Let’s not forget: we are not ascetics, monks, or nuns. We are called to life—not to self-punishment. Our calling is not like that of those religious folks misled by human doctrines—like the so-called “saint” Francis, who, lacking a solid foundation in the faith, thought salvation could be attained by giving up everything through a purely human decision. In doing so, they simply fall into the opposite extreme of the world’s excesses.
As born-again disciples, we are called to freedom. And within the boundaries set by the Law of Elohim, that freedom is vast. It’s the Law that defines the right balance in all things. And it’s within that framework that we can fully enjoy, with gratitude, the good things of this world and the joys of the soul—for these, too, were created by the Father for His children, just as Paul wrote in his first letter to Timothy.
Tithe | Offering in the Service of the Ancient Sanctuaries
As I mentioned at the beginning, we are justified by faith! However, the Comforter—Ruach HaKodesh—who dwells within us, now fulfills His commandments in us both actively and automatically, based on the original Law.
That’s why those who live in obedience and desire spiritual maturity should take time to deepen their understanding of how the laws of tithes and offerings functioned under the Old Covenant. It’s important to recognize that the essence of both covenants is, in fact, the same. With this understanding, we can consciously apply these principles in harmony with the Spirit of the Messiah who lives in us, working alongside Him.
Nothing expresses this truth—that our tithes and offerings are, first and foremost, meant to build up the Sanctuary, the Body of Messiah—better than this verse found in the weekly Torah portion, Vayakhel, right as this very teaching is being shared:
Exodus 35:4-29
And Moses spoke to all the congregation of the children of Yisra’el, saying, “This is the thing which Yahuwah commanded, saying, Take from among you an offering unto Yahuwah. Whoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it as an offering of Yahuwah: gold, and silver, and brass, and blue, and purple, and scarlet linen, and goats’ hair, and ram skins dyed red, and badger skins, and shittim wood, and oil for the light, and spices for anointing oil, and for the sweet incense, and onyx stones, and stones to be set for the ephod and for the breastplate. And every wise-hearted among you shall come and make all that Yahuwah has commanded: The tabernacle, its tent, and its covering, its clasps, and its boards, its bars, its pillars, and its sockets; the ark, and its staves, with the mercy seat, and the veil of the covering; the table, and its staves, and all its vessels, and the showbread; the candlestick also for the light, and its furniture, and its lamps, with the oil for the light; and the incense altar, and its staves, and the anointing oil, and the sweet incense, and the hanging for the door at the entrance of the tabernacle; the altar of burnt offering, with its brass grate, its staves, and all its vessels, the laver and its base; the hangings of the court, its pillars, and their sockets, and the hanging for the door of the court; the pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords; the garments of service, to minister in the holy place, the holy garments for Aharon the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest’s office.” And all the congregation of the children of Yisra’el departed from the presence of Moses. And everyone whose heart stirred him up, and everyone whom his spirit made willing, they brought Yahuwah’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all its service, and for the holy garments. And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing-hearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold, and every man that offered an offering of gold unto Yahuwah. And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet linen, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, and red skins of rams, and badger skins, brought them. Everyone that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought Yahuwah’s offering, and every man with whom was found shittim wood for any work of the service, brought it. And all the women that were wise-hearted spun with their hands and brought what they had spun, both of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine linen. And all the women whose hearts stirred them up in wisdom spun goats’ hair. And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set for the ephod, and for the breastplate; and spices, and oil for the light, and for the anointing oil, and for the sweet incense. The children of Yisra’el brought a willing offering unto Yahuwah, every man and woman, whose heart made them willing to bring for all manner of work, which Yahuwah had commanded to be made by the hand of Moses.
It would take too long to list everything that makes up the Sanctuary or to break down all the different ways we can contribute to its construction. Even more so, explaining the spiritual and symbolic meaning of each element in detail would be a lengthy task.
What matters most—the point that must be emphasized—is that giving must always come from the heart.
The one who gives should never be motivated by pressure or obligation, but by joy, gladness, and the living Law written within us by Ruach HaKodesh. The oil, the spices, the wooden boards, the gold, the animal skins—each of these represents our gratitude, our talents, our material possessions, the fruit of our labor, our vision, wisdom, strength, will, and our words. With these, we clothe and consecrate the High Priest and one another, and through them, we also receive ministry in return.
(For a deeper understanding, see my teaching: Eternal Holidays, I explore how we live out ministry within the Sanctuary and the ongoing, enduring nature of its promises, its appointed times, and its commandments.)
The key point is that Moses did not build the Tabernacle in the wilderness according to his own ideas, but according to the Pattern that Elohim revealed to him: Exodus 25:40 – See that you make them according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.
And what else would this Pattern be, if not the Body of Messiah—the very Sanctuary of which we are already living members? Are we somehow exempt from this part of the Torah and its instructions just because “we’re no longer under the law”?
Those who preach such things are cutting themselves off—and leading others astray—from the privilege and purpose of building the true Sanctuary.
These ancient commandments must be fulfilled and lived out in the ultimate and eternal Sanctuary—the one we are all called to belong to.
As I’ve said many times, most people are not building that true Sanctuary. Instead, they’re setting up their own little scout camps, with their small tents—mere hollow imitations of the real thing. They may believe they’re building the Body of Messiah and the Kingdom of Elohim, but in reality, they are only deceiving themselves—and leading astray those they claim to lead.
And yet, such is the grace of Elohim that He allows His disciples to be born even within these man-made structures. And in time, He calls them out. But the truth is—very few actually respond to that call.
Tithe | Offering from Abram to Melchizedek
So the question now becomes: how do we approach all of this, and how do we put it into practice? To whom should you give? In what way, and by what means, should you offer your support?
Follow the example of Abraham when he entered into covenant with Elohim, and Melchizedek—the high priest and king—came to him to receive the signs of that covenant.
At that moment, Abraham made a vow to give a tenth of everything he owned.
Many teachers interpret this act as symbolic: the number ten, representing fullness, reflects the idea that Abraham was offering all his wealth and his entire life to Elohim. This interpretation is absolutely valid, and it aligns perfectly with the message we’ve been developing so far: everything we have belongs to Elohim, because He is the One who gave it to us—so that we could return it to Him, laid upon His altar.
This is exactly what Abraham did with his own son, Isaac: he offered him as a sacrifice, only to receive him back—purified, free from selfish attachment and idolatry.
(For a deeper look into this subject, see my teaching on Shabbat VAYERA, especially the section titled “Human Sacrifice.”)
The Old Covenant is clear when it comes to the tithe: it is a portion set apart for Elohim, meant primarily to support the Levites, the poor, and the widows.
Our giving—our generosity—should flow from a sincere place in the heart, not from obligation, pressure, or the expectation of something in return.
This is exactly what Yeshua came to confirm and fulfill when He said…
Matthew 6:3 – But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing
Here, Yeshua teaches us the right attitude to have when it comes to giving. He encourages us to help others not for recognition or reward, but quietly and humbly, with a sincere and pure heart. Then He goes on:
Matthew 6:4 – …so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you openly.
This aligns perfectly with the teaching of the Old Covenant, which emphasizes selfless giving and sincere charity.
Perhaps this helps us better understand the parable of the rich young man, told in Matthew 19, Mark 10, and Luke 18. Yeshua—the High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek, who had received everything from Abraham—was expecting the same kind of total offering from this young man.
How are the commandments of tithing and giving being fulfilled in you?
Bring the question before Him in prayer, in supplication, and through fasting—ask the High Priest Himself.
Maybe you’re being called to give something to someone outside the Sanctuary, someone of the world—so that they might come to understand they too are invited into the Tent, and through new birth, they too can become a Levite.
Because the tithe was not always meant only for the High Priest and the Levites—it was also for the widows, the orphans, the poor, and the foreigners, as it is written: When you have finished setting aside a tenth of all your produce in the third year, the year of the tithe, you shall give it to the Levite, the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so that they may eat in your towns and be satisfied. Deuteronomy 26:12-13
The most perfect kind of giving is when the one who receives it has no idea who it came from. The highest offering is the one given to someone who can never repay it. As we can read in Luke 14:13-14: But when you prepare a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
In Conclusion
At the beginning of this teaching, I emphasized an essential truth: debating any law—including the laws of tithes and offerings—is pointless, and even harmful, when it comes to those who are not yet saved. Without a true covenant with the Messiah and the indwelling of His Spirit, any discussion of the Holy Scriptures becomes nothing more than empty, Pharisaical chatter.
If you have not been born again—that is, if you are not a Levite—then on one hand, you have no right whatsoever to receive tithes or offerings as a servant. That must be made crystal clear. On the other hand, if you idolize the Law for its own sake, not only will it fail to save you, it will condemn you.
It is good and right to give as a member of the people living outside the Sanctuary, just as it was in the days of the Old Covenant. In doing so, you are blessing both the Kingdom of Elohim and yourself—and you will experience blessing in the short term. However, no one—not even you—is called to live their entire life merely as outside support to the Sanctuary. On the contrary, you are called to be born again and to live as a member of the Sanctuary—as a Levite, forever.
No matter how hard you try, you will never be able to fully keep the Law, much less be justified by it.
Your focus should not be on tithes, offerings, feasts, or any other commandment—but rather on true and sincere repentance. Repent, among other things, for ever believing—even for a moment—that you could take your destiny into your own hands and earn eternal life by your own works.
Unless you are broken, your old self will never die. And you will continue to trample on the blood of the Lamb, poured out for you—rejecting it through your behavior and Pharisaical pride, and rushing headlong toward your own destruction.
You must be born again and filled with Ruach HaKodesh, who will write His commandments directly onto your heart—so that they become your new, purified instincts, guiding your actions and your life.
And you—who have already been born again and who are called to walk as a spiritual adult, raising up other believers to become strong, mature, and self-sustaining—Levites in service to the one true High Priest, Yahushua—you, too, are accountable.
Repent of the illusion passed down to you by your predecessors and spiritual mentors, from the lie that:
Tithes and offerings are meant to build your own little kingdom, your own little Vatican
It’s time to stop this reckless pursuit and to stop producing spiritually deformed believers around you.
Ask for healing from your own spiritual distortions, so you can become a radiant new creation—ready, like a wise virgin, for that final meeting with the Bridegroom, who is already at the door.
(For only a distorted ones can gives birth to further distorted souls.)
We could spend hours explaining and illustrating how the laws of tithes and offerings are meant to work. But this message is already long enough.
And to stay faithful to the principle I’ve stood by—that at some point, we must stop teaching one another and let Ruach HaKodesh Himself lead us deeper on the path of discipleship—I will conclude simply by reading the commandments of the Old Testament concerning tithes and offerings.
I want to speak the Word itself. And as you listen, ask—and allow—Ruach HaKodesh to inscribe these commands within you, so they may come alive in your heart and be made visible through your life.
Not out of obligation. Not out of personal gain. But with joy and gladness—In a word: out of love.
1. Verses About Tithing:
- Genesis 14:20 – And blessed be the Most High Elohim, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!” And he gave him a tenth of everything. (Abraham gave a tithe to Melchizedek.)
- Genesis 28:22 – This stone, which I have set up as a pillar, will be Elohim’s house, and of all that you give me, I will surely give a tenth to you. (Jacob’s vow to Elohim.)
- Leviticus 27:30-32 – A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to Yahuwah; it is holy to Yahuwah. (…) Every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd’s rod shall be holy to Yahuwah.
- Numbers 18:21, 26 – I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting. (The tithe designated for the livelihood of the Levites.)
- Deuteronomy 12:6 – There bring your burnt offerings and sacrifices, your tithes and special gifts, what you have vowed to give and your freewill offerings, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks.
- Deuteronomy 14:22-29 – Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. (The purpose of the tithe: honoring Yahuwah and helping the poor.)
- Deuteronomy 26:12-13 – When you have finished setting aside a tenth of all your produce in the third year, the year of the tithe, you shall give it to the Levite, the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so that they may eat in your towns and be satisfied…
- 2 Chronicles 31:5-6 – As soon as the order went out, the Israelites generously gave the firstfruits of their grain, new wine, oil, and honey, and all that the fields produced. They brought a great amount, a tithe of everything.
- Nehemiah 10:37-38 – We will bring the firstfruits of our land and the firstfruits of all fruit trees to the house of Elohim… and we will bring a tithe of our crops to the Levites…
- Malachi 3:8-10 – Will a mere mortal rob Elohim? Yet you rob me! (…) Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says Yahuwah of Hosts, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.
2. Verses About Offerings and Donations:
- Exodus 25:2 – Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering. You are to receive the offering for me from everyone whose heart prompts them to give.
- Exodus 35:5 – Take an offering for Yahuwah from what you have. Let everyone whose heart is willing bring an offering to Yahuwah.
- Deuteronomy 15:7-8, 10 – If anyone among you is poor, do not harden your heart or shut your hand against your needy brother. Instead, be openhanded and freely lend them whatever they need. (…) Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart.
- Proverbs 3:9-10 – Honor Yahuwah with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
- Proverbs 11:24-25 – One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
- Proverbs 19:17 – Whoever is kind to the poor lends to Yahuwah, and he will reward them for what they have done.”
- Proverbs 22:9 – The generous will be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.
- Isaiah 58:7-10 – Share your food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, clothe them, and do not turn away from your own flesh and blood!
- Daniel 4:27 – Break off your sins by doing what is right, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor. Then perhaps your prosperity will continue.
- Psalm 112:9 – They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor.