When you’re talking about Black people and finances, a discussion about tithing must be had.
Tithing, thought preached in Christian churches as a biblical thing, has absolutely been a Black thing.
And statistics bear this out.
History
A Gallup Organization survey (on behalf of the Interdenominational Theological Center) indicated that roughly 45% of African American church members tithe regularly. Another study found that Black churches derive almost half their income from offerings and a third from tithes and dues.
However, general statistics on tithing across all churchgoers in the U.S. suggest that only about 5% of churchgoers tithe, and 75-90% of church members do not tithe regularly. This suggests that Black church members have a higher propensity to tithe compared to the general churchgoing population.
And a large part of that is historical.
The Smithsonian Institute and the Pew Research Center report the same thing. Each contends that because Black churches have historically served as central institutions to our communities for generations, providing not only spiritual guidance but also essential social, educational, and economic services, a strong tradition of financial support has become cultural.
Today
However, multiple entities, including the Defender, have reported on the decline in the proportion of Black adults who say church involvement is “desirable.” Those percentages have dropped from 90% in 1996 to 74% currently (Barna Group).
And this trend is more pronounced the younger the demographic one researches. Gen Z and Millennials, in particular, are increasingly identifying as spiritual rather than religious or are moving to nondenominational or historically white evangelical churches. That adds up to fewer tithes for historically Black denominations.
That said, where are Black people now, in 2025, on the issue and practice of tithing? Defender readers shared their many thoughts.
Let the People be Heard
Tithing is a biblical thing, not a Black thing
“I truly believe tithes are a biblical thing, not a Black, white or any color thing.” (Evelyn Bethune)
“A Black thing? No, it’s a Bible thing. Malachi 3:10 commands believers to bring the whole tithe (one-tenth of their income or produce) into the storehouse.” (LaTrice Martin)
“I tithe, and my reasoning is based on biblical principle, and not culturally driven. I believe if our desire is to honor God with the tithe, it would be easier if financial stewardship was taught and mastered. I think that tithing is a struggle for some people, due to the income not being there (not having enough) or if there is mismanagement of the income. But I do it, because I believe the 10% belongs to the Lord, and grateful that he trusts me with the 90% to do as I please. After all, it really all belongs to Him!” (Megan Cheek Toomer)
“How many Second Baptist campuses are there around Houston? Black tithing isn’t holding a candle to what ‘Dewights’ are out here doing. Definitely not a Black thing. (She Landry)
Tithing extends beyond the church and money
“There is a reported decline in the proportion of Black adults who say church involvement is ‘desirable,’ from 90% in 1996 to 74% currently (Barna Group). This trend is more pronounced among younger Black adults (Gen Z and Millennials) who are increasingly identifying as spiritual rather than religious or are moving to nondenominational or historically white evangelical churches. This shift in affiliation and overall church engagement could naturally impact tithing rates in historically Black denominations. I think for the folks who go to church still have some responsibility towards that community. I also think Black people who don’t go to church give to some community or family. Regardless of our income bracket we are very philanthropic.” (Secunda Joseph)
“I saw my income grow when I started tithing. But I also understand that giving of your time and talents is included.” (Ken Straughter)
I give my tithes by helping people. If I’m moving from somewhere, I give my things away instead of selling them. If I accumulate too many cars, I give them away instead of selling them. If my friends need my help, I try my best to help. That’s how I pay my tithes. Whenever I do go to church, I break them off a nice piece of change. (Catv Colin)
Tithing is about financial gifts only
“I give my Tithes FAITHFULLY. I see God in my life (Malachi 3:10). People confuse their time as a tithe. That is an offering.” (Jamell Anderson-Richmond)
“Not a cultural thing, but a biblical principle. If you believe the Bible, it’s a teaching for you.
Also, people get hung up on 10% of your money given in faith from the source of your blessings. However, you would readily enter into any other relationship where the distribution is 90% to you and 10% to the other partner. It’s a no-brainer. But the scripture additionally teaches that it is for God’s church operations/missions/etc. It has nothing to do with you having much to say about the other excuses many give for not tithing. God is measuring your faithfulness. I’ll take my 90% and manage it well to receive the rest of the promises in Malachi.” (Nina Wilson Jones)
Tithing is about food/agriculture, not money
“God never commanded anybody in the Bible to tithe from money. God commanded Israel to take a tithe of food to Jerusalem and eat it (Deut. 14:22-29). Then, Israel was commanded to give a tenth/tithe of the tithe to the Levites, which meant that Israel ate 90% of the tithe, and the Levites ate 10% of the Tithe (Numbers 18:24-31). Malachi 3:6-7 teaches that God never changed the Ordinances of Tithe. The blessing from Malachi 3:10 was based on obeying the Ordinances of Tithe. Can you show me from the Bible where God changed the Ordinances of Tithe from eating food to giving money?” (Kingdom of God Giving)
Tithing is taught/traditional
“My mother has been a tither all of my life. Truly, I have seen her give what is her last to the church and to her pastors. She is of the philosophy that it (money) will be returned to her tenfold. Thus far, she has been spot on. I don’t know why, but I am always, always, always amazed when it happens.” (Joyce Taylor Johnson)
Tithing is about funding lavish preacher lifestyles“Not all preachers need people to tithe. These mega churches of all races need that to continue the lavish lifestyle of the pastors, as well as paying for the buildings. This is my opinion. I’ve seen very few that use [tithing funds] to help the people.” (Lieza Baha)
