Biblical principles totally dominated his life, and he became the Father of Israel and of the Lord Jesus Christ. When he met Melchidezek, he gave him tithes of all his possessions and was in turn blessed by this priest of the Most High God. Abraham was served communion by him and became the first man to partake of the Lord’s Table far in advance of Christ’s death but as a prophecy of that death. This was long before the Mosaic laws were given to Moses.

These tithing principles of God’s ordinances preceded the laws of Moses, but were incorporated in those laws. If someone says to you that tithing is part of the law and no longer required, tell them the truth about Abraham’s obedience before Moses’ days. Tithing is intrinsic to the whole revelation of God and will be obeyed by true saints of God.

The great prophecy of Malachi was the transition from the law to grace. In chapter three of this book, Malachi prophesied of John the Baptist and of Jesus Christ, and he proclaimed that Christ was coming to purify the children of God. He said Jesus Christ would purge his people of wickedness that they may offer to God an “offering of righteousness.” Malachi proceeded to identify a major sin that Christ would purge.

It was called disobedience or “robbing God” and then identified as “tithes and offerings.” He said, “Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.” After clearly speaking of the tithes (10% off the top of everything) and offerings, he promised God’s full blessings.

“And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts” (Malachi 3:11-12).

Jesus was careful to add His absolute final word to this subject. Here are His words as He rebuked the Pharisees, “But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone” (Luke 11:42). Note His words as He addressed the tithes, “…and not to leave the other undone.”

Our God in Heaven is helpless to bless a disobedient life or home. He cannot bypass His Word’s. He wants to open the windows of Heaven, spiritually and physically, but you have tied His hand. Repent, redeem your tithes that you have robbed, return to God, and He will return to you.