Righteous People Tithe | Pastor Jake Sweetman

In this sermon, we continue exploring the biblical foundation for tithing—this time through the lens of righteousness and justice. From Proverbs 8:17–21 to the life of Abraham in Genesis 14–15, we see that honoring God with the first and best is not merely a law-code practice, but part of a well-ordered relationship with God that predates the Mosaic Law. Wisdom walks “in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice” (Proverbs 8:20), and Scripture shows that righteous people honor God with their wealth. Abraham gave a tenth to Melchizedek in Genesis 14:17–20, acknowledging God as his deliverer and provider. Jacob followed this pattern in Genesis 28:20–22, vowing to give God a tenth of all he received. This message traces how tithing connects to righteousness and justice—tzedakah and mishpat—from Abraham to Israel to the New Testament church. The tithe provided for those serving in God’s house (Numbers 18:21; Deuteronomy 18:3), supported the vulnerable among God’s people (Deuteronomy 14:28–29; Isaiah 1:17), and carries forward in New Testament generosity through the support of gospel ministry and care for those in need (Galatians 6:2–10; 1 Corinthians 9:13–14; 1 Timothy 5:3–8; 2 Corinthians 9:9). Key Scriptures: • Proverbs 8:17–21 — Wisdom walks in righteousness and justice • Genesis 18:18–19 — Abraham called to teach righteousness and justice • Genesis 14:17–24 — Abraham tithes to Melchizedek • Genesis 15:1 — God is Abraham’s shield and great reward • Genesis 28:20–22 — Jacob vows to give God a tenth • Numbers 18:21 — The tithe provides for the Levites • Deuteronomy 14:28–29 — The tithe supports the vulnerable • Galatians 3:29; 5:14; 6:2–10 — Abraham’s children fulfill the law of Christ • 1 Corinthians 9:13–14 — Gospel ministers supported by gospel giving • 1 Timothy 5:3–8 — The church cares for those truly in need • 2 Corinthians 9:9 — Generosity as enduring righteousness Righteousness walks a path that abundantly provides. This sermon calls us to trust God, honor Him with our wealth, and participate in the flourishing of His church and His people. 🌐 Follow Us: - Website: cathedral-church.com - Instagram: instagram.com/cathedral.church - New to faith? Sign up for our 5 week daily devotional!