Deuteronomy 14:28

At the end of every three years, bring a tenth of all your produce for that year and lay it up within your gates.

Study Bible

At the end of every three years
This phrase refers to a specific time frame established in the Mosaic Law for the collection of tithes. The three-year cycle is significant in the context of Israel's agricultural society, where the land's produce was a primary source of sustenance and economic activity. This cycle allowed for a systematic approach to supporting the Levites, who had no inheritance of land, as well as the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow. The number three often symbolizes completeness and divine order in the Bible, as seen in other contexts such as the Trinity and Jesus' resurrection on the third day.

bring a tenth of all your produce for that year
The tithe, or tenth, was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, but in Israel, it was specifically commanded by God as a way to acknowledge His provision and sovereignty. This tithe was not just a religious duty but also a social responsibility, ensuring that the needs of the community were met. The produce included grains, fruits, and other agricultural products, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the Israelites. This practice is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as Malachi 3:10, where God promises blessings for those who faithfully bring their tithes.

and lay it up within your gates
The instruction to lay up the tithe within the gates indicates that the collection and distribution of the tithe were to be managed locally, within each city or town. This localized approach ensured that the resources were readily available to meet the needs of the community, particularly the Levites, who served in religious duties, and the marginalized groups mentioned earlier. The gates of a city were often the center of civic life, where legal matters were settled and community decisions were made, highlighting the importance of the tithe in the social and spiritual life of Israel. This practice underscores the biblical principle of caring for one's community and the importance of stewardship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving instructions on how to live in the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, where the Israelites are to settle and follow God's commandments.

4. Tithe
A tenth of the produce, which is to be set aside every three years for a specific purpose.

5. Gates
Refers to the cities or towns where the Israelites lived, indicating a local collection and distribution.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The tithe is a command from God, reflecting our trust and obedience to His provision.

Community Support
The third-year tithe was intended to support the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows, emphasizing the importance of caring for the vulnerable in our communities.

Stewardship
Managing our resources wisely and setting aside a portion for God's work is a principle that transcends time.

Generosity
The act of tithing cultivates a spirit of generosity, reminding us that all we have is from God.

Faith in God's Provision
Trusting God to provide for our needs as we give back to Him is a key aspect of faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of tithing in Deuteronomy 14:28 reflect God's heart for justice and care for the marginalized?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of the third-year tithe in our modern context to support those in need?

3. How does the practice of tithing challenge our understanding of stewardship and generosity today?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our giving aligns with the biblical principles found in both the Old and New Testaments?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of cheerful giving, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:30-33
Discusses the general principle of tithing, emphasizing the holiness of the tithe.

Deuteronomy 26:12-15
Provides further instructions on the third-year tithe, including a prayer of blessing.

Malachi 3:10
Encourages bringing the full tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings for obedience.

Acts 4:34-35
Early Christians shared their resources, reflecting the communal care seen in the tithe system.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7
Highlights the principle of cheerful giving, which aligns with the spirit of the tithe.