Tithing

According to Scripture, the biblical standard for tithing is 10% of one’s income (Leviticus 27:30, Deuteronomy 14:22). While this is the baseline, generosity beyond the tithe is encouraged as a reflection of our gratitude and desire to see God’s work flourish.

At COTLE, we encourage members to give faithfully and cheerfully, trusting that God will provide for all their needs as they honor Him with their finances (2 Corinthians 9:6–8).

At its core, tithing is the practice of giving one-tenth of one’s income or resources to the church. At COTLE, it is a sacred act of partnership with God’s work on earth. The word “tithe” means “a tenth,” reflecting the biblical call to set aside a portion of what we have as holy to the Lord (Leviticus 27:30).

More than a financial transaction, tithing is an act of worship, gratitude, and obedience to God’s Word. And it is not limited to financial contributions; it extends to our time, talents, and treasures, ensuring that all we have honors God.

Church on the Living Edge operates under an Eldership model of church government, grounded in biblical principles and focused on accountability, spiritual guidance, and care for our community.

We believe that integrity and transparency are essential in managing the resources entrusted to us. To uphold the highest standards of financial accountability, our finances are overseen by an external firm, providing independent oversight and assurance that our resources are managed with care and responsibility. Every dollar given is treated as a gift to God’s work, with careful stewardship ensuring that we can fulfill our mission to Encounter God, Experience Transformation, and Elevate Lives.

Tithes at COTLE are used to fulfill the church’s mission and vision: worship experiences — funding music, technology, and creative expressions that help us encounter God; community outreach — supporting local missions like The Table and benevolence funds to meet practical needs; all-generation ministries — providing resources and programs for children, youth, young adults, and adults to thrive spiritually; global missions — partnering with missionaries and organizations to advance the gospel worldwide; facilities and operations — maintaining and upgrading the church campus; and supporting leaders — sustaining pastors, staff, and ministry leaders dedicated to shepherding the congregation.

The practice of tithing is firmly rooted in Scripture. In the Old Testament, Abraham gave a tenth of his possessions to Melchizedek as an act of honor and gratitude to God (Genesis 14:20). Jacob vowed to give God a tenth of all he had as a response to God’s promises (Genesis 28:22). Under the Mosaic Law, tithing became a sacred responsibility, used to support the Levites, who served in God’s house (Numbers 18:21–24).

In the New Testament, Jesus affirmed the value of tithing but emphasized justice, mercy, and faithfulness as even greater priorities (Matthew 23:23). Paul urged believers to give generously and cheerfully, supporting the work of the ministry and the needs of others (2 Corinthians 9:6–7).

COTLE members tithe because they believe in partnering with God’s mission and honoring Him as the ultimate source of all blessings. Tithing is an act of obedience that reflects our faith in God’s provision and trust in His promises.

Members understand that their giving directly supports the church’s ministry, outreach, and discipleship efforts. At COTLE, we see tithing as a way to grow spiritually, deepen our connection with God, and align our lives with His Kingdom priorities.