Leader Guide
Tithing can be a difficult and uncomfortable topic, but it’s an important part of understanding God’s design for generosity and trust. This weekend we discussed what God says about this topic in the book of Malachi. While conversations about money can sometimes feel personal or even controversial, approaching this topic with an open mind allows us to see God’s heart for provision and faithfulness. Let’s take a closer look at what tithing means and how it can deepen our trust in God’s care for us.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leaders: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to knowing more, exploring. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. If money was no object, what is one fun extravagant thing you would buy? If you had a large sum of money that you had to give, what is something you would give to?
2. Read Malachi 3:6-12? What stands out to you most in Malachi? Why do you think God addresses the issue of tithing so strongly with Israel?
Leaders: I am praying for you as you navigate the conversation this week. Remind your group that everything we have is God’s. He gives us our right minds, hands, feet, health and ability to earn and steward the resources He provides. Tithing is a way we acknowledge that He is our ultimate provider and that we trust Him with what he has entrusted us.
3. Read Malachi 3:8-10. What do you think the term “robbing” Him means? Why do you think tithing requires trust in God? In verse 10, God invites His people to test Him in tithing. Why is this significant?
Leaders: Verse 10 is powerful-God invites us to test Him in this. It’s one of the only times in scripture where He makes such an invitation. This tells us that God wants us to experience His faithfulness firsthand. Some in your group may struggle with tithing or have questions about it. Create a safe space for conversation and remind them that God’s heart in this is not to burden us but to bless us and deepen our trust in Him.
4. Read Deuteronomy 14:22-23. According to this verse what was the purpose of tithing for Israel? How does this passage show tithing is not just about giving but also about recognizing God’s provision and learning to revere Him? How does this principle apply today?
Leaders: This passage shows that tithing isn’t just a financial transaction; it’s a spiritual discipline. The same principle applies today—when we give it’s an act of worship and deepens our trust in Him.
5. Read Matthew 23:23. What does this verse tell us about God’s priorities? How can we ensure that our giving isn’t just a religious obligation but a reflection of our heart and faith? Can you think of a time when trusting God with your finances led to unexpected blessings?
Leaders: God cares more about the heart behind our actions than just the actions themselves. When we give with the right heart, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from Him, and we invite Him to work in our lives in powerful ways.
Action Steps: What is one step you can take this week to grow in generosity and trust in God?