Ibrahim Gardner
Tithing is a religious practice of giving a portion of one's income, typically 10%, to support a church or other religious organization. While the Bible encourages generosity and giving, it is debated whether student loans are considered income and thus subject to tithing. Some argue that student loans are not income but rather a liability, and therefore tithing is not necessary. Others suggest that only the interest portion of subsidized loans should be considered for tithing. Ultimately, the decision to tithe on student loans is a personal one, and individuals should consider their financial situation and spiritual beliefs when making a decision.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student loans considered income | No |
| Tithing on student loans | No, but some may choose to |
| Tithing on interest from student loans | Yes |
| Tithing on subsidized loans | Yes |
| Tithing on gifts or inheritance | Not required, but possible |
| Tithing on income tax refunds | Not required, but possible |
| Tithing while in debt | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Student loans are not income
Student loans are generally not considered income. In fact, they are often seen as the opposite of income, representing a loss that will be paid back in the future. While it is important to be generous and give where possible, student loans are not typically considered a source of income to be tithed upon.
From a taxation perspective, student loans are not treated as income in the US. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not classify student loans as taxable income. However, there are some nuances to this. If an employer contributes to an employee's student loan payments, this amount may be considered taxable income, but only if it exceeds the tax-free limit of $5,250. Additionally, if a student loan is forgiven through a forgiveness program, the forgiven amount may be considered taxable income, although this depends on the specific program.
It is worth noting that some people have differing opinions on whether student loans should be considered income for tithing purposes. Some argue that if a subsidized loan reduces the interest paid on a loan, then tithing should be paid on the interest saved. However, others disagree, stating that loans are not income and that tithing on both the loan and future income used to repay it would be double tithing.
In summary, student loans are typically not considered income, neither from a taxation standpoint nor for those considering tithing. While there may be exceptional circumstances, such as employer contributions or loan forgiveness, where the treatment of student loans becomes more complex, the general principle is that student loans themselves are not income.
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Scripture says to give generously
Scripture says a lot about giving generously. God tells us that we are to be a generous people, and that how we use our money is a reflection of our heart. In Proverbs 3:9, we are told to "Honor the Lord with your possessions and with the first produce of your entire harvest". This means that giving should be a priority, not an afterthought.
The Bible also tells us that giving is based on the amount God has given us. We are called to give generously, just as God gave his only son for us. In Malachi 3:10-12, God tells us to test him in this, and he will "throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it". This sets a model for sacrificial generosity in God's people.
Jesus himself demonstrated this principle when a woman poured expensive perfume over his head. His disciples were indignant, saying that the perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. But Jesus replied, "The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me... She has done a beautiful thing to me" (Matthew 6:21). This story illustrates that giving should come from a place of love and generosity, rather than obligation.
Other Bible verses that encourage generosity include Proverbs 11:24, which states, "One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want". This verse reminds us that our generosity will be returned to us by God, and that practicing generosity produces goodwill among our fellow humans.
While Scripture calls us to give generously, it is important to note that tithing on student loans is a separate matter. Some people argue that student loans are not income, and therefore should not be subject to tithing. Others suggest that if the loans are subsidized, one should pay tithing on the interest that would have otherwise been paid. Ultimately, the decision to tithe on student loans is a personal one, and individuals should seek guidance from their own hearts and interpretations of Scripture.
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Tithing on interest
Tithing is a religious practice of donating a portion of one's income or earnings to support a church or other religious organization. The amount of tithing varies, but it is often suggested as a percentage of one's annual income.
The interpretation of "interest" in the context of tithing has evolved over time. In the original context of the law of tithing, as stated in D&C 119:4, "interest" referred specifically to the annual interest accrued on one's net worth. This was clarified by Bishop Partridge in a letter dated July 24, 1838, where he provided a simple example: if an individual is worth $1000 and earns an interest of $60 on that amount, the tithing would be one-tenth of the interest, which is $6.
However, modern interpretations of tithing often equate "interest" with "income." Church leaders have instructed that tithing should be calculated based on one's annual income, which can include wages, interest, dividends, capital gains, and business income. This interpretation considers tithing as a percentage of one's total earnings rather than just the interest accrued.
When it comes to student loans specifically, there is a debate among followers. Some argue that student loans are not considered income but rather a liability, and therefore tithing is not applicable. Others suggest that if the loans are subsidized, one should pay tithing on the amount of interest they would have had to pay if the loan was not subsidized. Ultimately, the decision to pay tithing on student loans may depend on individual circumstances and interpretations of religious teachings.
It is important to note that the interpretation of tithing can vary among different religious denominations and individuals. Those who are unsure about what constitutes tithing in their specific situation are advised to seek guidance from religious leaders or texts. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to pray and seek divine guidance to determine what qualifies as a full and honest tithe.
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Tithing on gifts or inheritance
Tithing is a command instituted by God, with Deuteronomy 14:22 teaching: "You shall truly tithe all the increase of your grain that the field produces year by year". The biblical guideline suggests that tithing should be calculated based on "increase", which is determined by any profit or earnings received after subtracting the costs of doing business or investing.
Regarding gifts, if you receive a free gift, you need not pay tithe on it. This includes gifts from parents or relatives, such as money, clothing, or shoes. However, if you receive cash as a gift, and you have money left over after purchasing the intended item, you would return tithe on the remaining amount.
Similarly, when it comes to inheritance, you are not obligated to tithe on inherited assets such as a house, land, or a car if you continue to live in, own, or use them. However, if you sell these inherited assets, you should tithe on the amount received from the sale. Inheritances received in cash are considered personal income, and you should tithe on the value of the inheritance at the time it is received.
While there is no specific biblical command to tithe on gifts or inheritances, some individuals may choose to offer a thank offering or give generously as an expression of gratitude to God for their blessings. The amount and nature of such offerings are left to the discretion of the recipient, guided by their heart and attitude towards giving.
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Tithing while in debt
From a religious perspective, the Bible teaches that giving back to God is important. In the Old Testament, God required Israelite farmers and herdsmen to pay tithes, even if they were in debt. However, Christians today are not bound by the Mosaic Law, and tithing is considered "optional". Additionally, the New Covenant teaches that Christians are now God's temple and royal priesthood, which changes the context of tithing.
Some people argue that tithing while in debt can be justifiable. They believe that God wants investors rather than givers, as seen in the parable of the talents. By investing in God's kingdom, individuals can bring returns that outweigh the interest on their debts. Others suggest that tithing requires budgeting skills, and learning to tithe while in debt can lead to better financial stewardship.
On the other hand, many individuals prioritize debt repayment over tithing. They believe that focusing on paying off unsecured debt is crucial, as it ensures financial stability and freedom. Additionally, some interpret the Bible's command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' as a justification for prioritizing debt repayment, as failing to repay debts is considered wicked in Psalm 37:21.
Ultimately, the decision to tithe while in debt is a personal one. It is advisable to seek guidance from spiritual leaders or financial advisors to make informed choices that align with one's values and financial circumstances.
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Frequently asked questions
Student loans are not considered income, so you are not obliged to pay tithing on them. However, some people choose to pay tithing on the interest they would have had to pay otherwise.
Tithing is seen as a generous act and a way to financially participate in God's kingdom-advancing mission. However, it is not a requirement to be a good Christian. God tells us to give what we have decided to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, as he loves a cheerful giver.
God tells us to give our first and best, and that giving should be a priority. It is also important to consider that tithing is more of a spiritual topic than a financial one. It is about living with the attitude that we have been blessed and should, in turn, be a blessing to others.
