Project – The relationship between tithing and the Christian’s resource management.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
- Background to the Study
Tithing, the practice of giving one-tenth of one’s income to the church or religious institution, has long been a central tenet of Christian stewardship and financial practice. Historically rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures, tithing is seen as a means by which individuals demonstrate obedience to God and manage their resources in a way that aligns with biblical principles (Hays, 2007). The practice has evolved over time, with varying interpretations across Christian denominations, but it remains a foundational element in Christian resource management. Research on the relationship between tithing and Christian resource management focuses on how this practice influences financial behavior, economic decision-making, and overall stewardship of personal and communal resources.
A growing body of literature explores how tithing as a religious practice shapes an individual’s attitudes towards money and resource management. According to studies, tithing encourages Christians to see money as a stewardship tool rather than a personal entitlement (Pew Research Center, 2019). For many, the act of giving a fixed portion of income to God symbolizes trust in divine provision and a commitment to prioritize spiritual well-being over material wealth (Torgerson, 2018). This shift in perspective often leads to greater financial discipline and the development of budgetary practices that emphasize long-term financial stability and ethical consumption (Krueger, 2020). Christians who tithe often exhibit more cautious and intentional financial behavior, as they recognize the role of money in fulfilling both personal and communal obligations.
In addition to personal financial discipline, tithing also plays a significant role in the broader economic ecosystem of the church and faith-based communities. Churches rely heavily on the tithes and offerings of their congregants to fund ministries, charitable outreach, and operational expenses. Research shows that the practice of tithing promotes communal resource management by encouraging members to contribute collectively to the work of the church and broader societal good (Conway & Yip, 2018). This communal approach to resource distribution aligns with the biblical principle of “storing up treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-21), which emphasizes the eternal value of collective and sacrificial giving for the betterment of the community.
From a theological standpoint, tithing is often understood as a way for Christians to demonstrate their commitment to God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life, including financial matters. The act of giving a portion of one’s income is seen as an acknowledgment that all resources ultimately belong to God, and tithing becomes a form of worship and obedience. Theologians like N.T. Wright (2016) emphasize that Christian stewardship involves not only managing resources wisely but also aligning one’s actions with divine purposes. This understanding reinforces the view that financial management within Christianity is not merely about budgeting or wealth accumulation but about recognizing the sacredness of one’s resources and the responsibility to use them for God’s kingdom.
Tithing, however, is not without its criticisms. Some scholars argue that the practice, particularly in its strictest forms, can place undue financial strain on believers, particularly those in lower-income brackets (Kinnaman, 2011). Critics suggest that an overemphasis on tithing can lead to guilt and anxiety, especially if congregants feel obligated to give beyond their means in order to meet religious expectations. Furthermore, there is ongoing debate about whether tithing is a biblical mandate for contemporary Christians or whether it was specific to ancient Israel and the Old Testament context. Some contemporary scholars argue for a more flexible understanding of giving, one that prioritizes generosity and sacrificial giving rather than a fixed percentage (Gunderson, 2015). This perspective suggests that Christians should focus on cultivating a spirit of generosity, regardless of the specific amount given.
The relationship between tithing and Christian resource management is multifaceted, touching on personal financial discipline, communal resource sharing, and theological beliefs about stewardship. While tithing is seen as a biblical practice that fosters both individual and collective financial responsibility, it also raises important questions about the role of money in Christian life and the potential pressures it places on individuals. Further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of tithing on personal financial health, as well as its role in shaping the economic practices of religious communities. In light of these complexities, it is clear that tithing continues to play a significant role in shaping how Christians manage their resources in a way that reflects their faith and values.
- Statement of the Problem
Tithing has long been a cornerstone of Christian financial practice, with many denominations emphasizing the importance of giving one-tenth of one’s income to the church. However, there is a growing concern about how this practice interacts with the broader concept of resource management among Christians, particularly in modern, economically diverse contexts. While tithing is often seen as an act of faith and obedience, questions persist regarding its impact on individuals’ financial well-being, attitudes toward money, and broader resource management practices. Does tithing, as a religious obligation, encourage responsible stewardship of personal finances, or does it create financial strain and dissonance for believers, particularly those in lower income brackets? Furthermore, how does the practice of tithing influence the communal economy within faith communities, and what role does it play in shaping the financial decision-making of individuals in the church?
One key issue in this area of study is the extent to which tithing aligns with or conflicts with modern financial principles. In an age where personal finance is increasingly shaped by budgeting, debt management, and saving for the future, tithing may either complement or challenge contemporary approaches to financial stewardship.
Research on Christian resource management suggests that tithing encourages believers to prioritize generosity and long-term communal welfare, which could lead to more disciplined financial behavior (Pew Research Center, 2019). However, there is little empirical data on how tithing as a fixed percentage affects broader financial decision-making. Does the expectation of giving one-tenth of one’s income, irrespective of financial circumstances, lead to difficulties in personal budgeting or the accumulation of debt? In what ways do Christians reconcile the biblical call to tithe with modern-day financial pressures, such as student loans, mortgages, and healthcare costs?
Another problem stems from the varying interpretations of tithing across denominations and theological traditions. Some Christian communities treat tithing as a mandatory, non-negotiable obligation, while others view it more as a guideline for generous giving (Gunderson, 2015). This diversity raises questions about whether the principle of tithing, as outlined in the Old Testament, is applicable to contemporary Christians or whether it needs to be reinterpreted in light of current economic conditions. Further, there is a lack of clarity about whether tithing is truly a biblical mandate or whether it reflects an Old Testament practice that is no longer binding under the New Covenant of Christianity. The theological debate over tithing’s relevance today contributes to confusion among believers, with some unsure whether they are meeting their religious obligations when they give more or less than a tenth of their income. This uncertainty has implications for how Christians approach their finances in light of their faith.
The communal aspect of tithing also raises significant questions about the collective economic impact of religious giving. Churches rely on tithes and offerings to fund various activities, from worship services to charitable outreach programs. However, as religious participation and tithing rates have declined in many regions, particularly in Western countries, there is concern about the sustainability of this model of resource management. The financial health of churches, particularly smaller congregations or those in low-income areas, is often dependent on the voluntary tithing of their members. This reliance on consistent and generous giving can put pressure on individual congregants to give beyond their means, leading to financial strain or diminished financial resources for personal use. Thus, the relationship between individual tithing behavior and the economic stability of religious institutions is a critical area of concern that needs further exploration.
Additionally, there is a need for more research into the emotional and psychological effects of tithing on believers. While tithing is often taught as a means of spiritual growth, there may be unintended consequences for those who struggle with financial insecurity. For some Christians, the expectation of tithing may lead to feelings of guilt or anxiety, especially if they are unable to meet the expectation due to economic hardships. On the other hand, for those who are able to give, tithing may foster a sense of fulfillment and spiritual discipline. Understanding the psychological implications of tithing on financial well-being and emotional health is an underexplored aspect of Christian resource management, but it is crucial for a holistic understanding of how faith and finance intersect in the lives of believers.
In light of these issues, the problem of how tithing influences Christian resource management remains complex and multifaceted. The practice of tithing has clear theological and communal implications, yet its effects on personal financial management, particularly in a modern context, are not well understood. Moreover, the varying interpretations of tithing across different Christian traditions contribute to divergent practices and beliefs about how much is enough when it comes to giving. As such, there is a pressing need for empirical research that examines the relationship between tithing and resource management from multiple angles—financial, psychological, communal, and theological. By addressing these gaps in the literature, we can gain a better understanding of how Christians manage their resources in ways that are consistent with their faith and values.
- Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to examine the relationship between tithing and the Christian’s resource management. The specific objectives of the study are:
- To examine the impact of tithing on the financial stability of Christian individuals in the Apostolic Church.
- To analyze the correlation between tithing practices and the overall financial management skills of Christians.
- To investigate the attitudes and beliefs of Christians towards tithing and its influence on their resource allocation and budgeting.
- To assess the effectiveness of tithing as a tool for promoting financial discipline and stewardship among members of the Apostolic Church.
1.4. Research Questions
The research questions are buttressed below:
- What is the impact of tithing on the financial stability of Christian individuals in the Apostolic Church?
- Is there a correlation between tithing practices and the overall financial management skills of Christians?
- What are the attitudes and beliefs of Christians towards tithing and how does it influence their resource allocation and budgeting?
- How effective is tithing as a tool for promoting financial discipline and stewardship among members of the Apostolic Church?
1.5. Research Hypothesis
The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:
Ho: Tithing has no significant impact on the financial stability of Christian individuals in the Apostolic Church.
H1: Tithing has significant impact on the financial stability of Christian individuals in the Apostolic Church
1.6. Significance of the Study
The significance of this study lies in its potential to provide a nuanced understanding of how tithing, as a religious practice, influences personal and communal resource management among Christians, specifically within the context of The Apostolic Church Field 5 in Cameroon. As tithing remains a central component of Christian life for many believers, particularly in Pentecostal and Apostolic traditions, understanding its impact on the financial behaviors of individuals and faith communities is essential for developing practical and spiritually grounded approaches to resource management. By focusing on this particular church field, the study will contribute valuable insights into how the theology and practice of tithing influence financial decision-making, budgeting, and stewardship within a specific cultural and denominational context.
First, this research will provide an important empirical contribution to the ongoing discussion about the role of tithing in shaping Christian financial behavior. Although tithing is widely practiced among Christians in Cameroon, there is limited academic literature on its direct relationship with personal resource management in the Cameroonian context. By examining the experiences and financial practices of members within The Apostolic Church Field 5, the study will fill this gap by offering data on how tithing influences budgeting, savings, debt management, and general financial priorities. This information is crucial for understanding whether tithing encourages responsible financial stewardship, or if it creates economic strain or tension for believers, particularly in areas of financial hardship.
Second, the study will provide insights into the psychological and emotional impact of tithing on individuals’ financial well-being. Tithing is often framed as an act of obedience, faith, and worship, but for many believers, the obligation to give a fixed percentage of income can be accompanied by feelings of guilt, stress, or anxiety, especially when financial resources are limited. In Cameroon, where economic inequality and poverty remain prevalent, it is essential to explore how members of The Apostolic Church Field 5 navigate the pressures of tithing while balancing their personal financial needs. This study will offer a deeper understanding of the emotional and mental health implications of tithing and how it affects Christians’ attitudes toward money, financial success, and spiritual fulfillment.
Third, this research holds significance for the church leadership within The Apostolic Church Field 5 and similar religious communities by shedding light on the broader financial dynamics at play. The findings could help church leaders assess whether their teachings on tithing are aligned with the financial realities of their congregants. If tithing is found to be placing undue strain on members, it may prompt the development of more flexible approaches to giving, such as voluntary contributions or teaching on financial management that takes into account local economic conditions. Moreover, church leaders could use the insights from this study to foster a healthier theology of generosity and stewardship, one that encourages responsible resource management without overburdening the faithful.
The study will also be significant for informing policy and practice in faith-based economic initiatives. Many Christian communities in Cameroon are actively engaged in social programs that aim to alleviate poverty, promote sustainable development, and provide financial support to those in need. Understanding the role of tithing in these initiatives can help church organizations better manage their resources and tailor their outreach programs to meet the needs of their congregants. If tithing practices are found to be insufficient or problematic, churches may consider developing additional financial education programs, savings schemes, or microfinance initiatives that empower believers to manage their resources effectively while also contributing to the collective welfare of their communities.
Finally, the broader academic and theological implications of the study are significant in terms of enriching the global discourse on Christian financial stewardship. While there is growing interest in how Christian communities around the world manage financial resources, much of the literature has focused on Western contexts, where economic and social conditions differ greatly from those in Africa. This study will add to the growing body of literature on Christian resource management in African settings, contributing perspectives that are often underrepresented in mainstream research. By focusing specifically on The Apostolic Church Field 5 in Cameroon, this study will provide a case study that can inform both local and international theological discussions on the role of tithing in resource management, offering lessons that are relevant to other Pentecostal and Apostolic communities in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.
This study is significant because it addresses a critical gap in understanding the intersection of faith, economics, and personal resource management within the specific context of The Apostolic Church Field 5 in Cameroon. The findings will not only provide practical insights for church leaders, members, and faith-based organizations, but also contribute to the broader academic conversation on Christian financial stewardship, particularly in African contexts. By examining the relationship between tithing and financial practices, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore how religious teachings shape economic behaviors and how these behaviors, in turn, influence the financial health of both individuals and faith communities.
1.7. Scope of the Study
The study examines the relationship between tithing and the Christian’s resource management. A Case Study On The Apostolic Church Field 5, Cameroon.
1.8. Operational Definition of Terms
Relationship: In this context, the term relationship refers to the way in which two or more concepts or entities are connected or interact with one another. It highlights the influence, interdependence, or correlation between them. Specifically, the relationship between tithing and Christian resource management refers to the manner in which the practice of giving one-tenth of one’s income (tithing) influences, shapes, or is intertwined with how Christians manage their financial resources (such as income, savings, and expenditures) in alignment with their faith principles.
Tithing: Tithing is a religious practice in many Christian traditions where believers are encouraged to give a portion (typically one-tenth) of their income or resources to support the work of the church or religious ministry. The concept of tithing has its roots in the Old Testament, where it was established as a mandatory practice for the Israelites (e.g., Leviticus 27:30). While its strict observance varies across denominations, many Christians continue to uphold tithing as an expression of obedience to God, support for the local church, and a means of participating in the broader mission of the faith community.
Christian Resource Management: Christian resource management refers to the practice of stewarding, allocating, and managing the resources (such as time, money, talents, and possessions) that Christians believe are entrusted to them by God. This involves making financial and lifestyle decisions that align with Christian teachings and values, including principles of generosity, stewardship, and ethical use of resources. Good resource management within Christianity is not solely focused on personal gain, but also on the well-being of others, supporting the work of the church, and using one’s resources to contribute to God’s kingdom.
Church: A church is a community or assembly of Christians who gather for worship, teaching, fellowship, and ministry. It can refer both to the physical building where Christians gather and to the body of believers who make up the congregation. The church, in Christian belief, is considered the “Body of Christ,” a collective of individuals united in faith and dedicated to following Jesus Christ’s teachings. The role of the church is multifaceted, including spiritual nourishment, community building, evangelism, and social service, as well as the administration of religious rituals (e.g., baptisms, communion). Churches often rely on the financial support of their members through practices like tithing to fund their various activities and outreach programs.
Project – The relationship between tithing and the Christian’s resource management.
