The practice of tithing, giving one-tenth of one's income to the church, is a topic that has sparked much discussion and debate among Christians. To understand whether Jesus or the apostles taught about tithing, it is crucial to delve into both the Old and New Testaments, as well as the context in which tithing was practiced in biblical times.
Old Testament Context
The concept of tithing originates in the Old Testament, where it was instituted as a means of supporting the Levitical priesthood and the temple. Leviticus 27:30 states, "A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD." Similarly, Numbers 18:21 declares, "I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting." The tithe was an integral part of the Mosaic Law, serving as a system of support for religious leaders and the community's worship life.
Jesus and Tithing
When we turn to the New Testament, we find that Jesus does mention tithing, but His references are often within a broader context of critiquing the religious leaders of His day. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus says, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." Here, Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing but emphasizes that it should not be done at the expense of more significant principles like justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Similarly, in Luke 11:42, Jesus states, "Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone." Again, Jesus does not abolish the practice of tithing but places it within the broader context of a righteous and loving life.
The Apostles and Tithing
The apostles, particularly Paul, do not explicitly command tithing in their writings. Instead, they focus on the principles of generosity and cheerful giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." This verse highlights the importance of the attitude behind giving rather than a specific percentage.
In 1 Corinthians 16:2, Paul advises, "On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made." While this instruction does not specify a tithe, it does encourage regular, planned giving according to one's means.
The Principle of Generosity
The New Testament shifts the focus from a legalistic requirement of tithing to a broader principle of generosity. This shift is evident in passages like Acts 4:32-35, where the early Christians shared their possessions and resources freely: "All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had... There were no needy persons among them."
This communal sharing reflects the heart of Christian giving, which is rooted in love and concern for one another. The emphasis is on meeting needs and supporting the community rather than adhering to a strict percentage.
Tithing in Christian Tradition
Throughout Christian history, the practice of tithing has evolved. Early church fathers like Irenaeus and Tertullian did not emphasize tithing as a requirement for Christians, focusing instead on voluntary giving. However, by the medieval period, tithing became more institutionalized within the church.
In more recent times, various Christian denominations have different teachings on tithing. Some, like certain evangelical and Pentecostal traditions, uphold tithing as a biblical mandate, while others, including many mainline Protestant denominations, emphasize proportional and voluntary giving.
Modern Application
For contemporary Christians, the question of tithing often comes down to personal conviction and the teachings of their particular faith community. While the New Testament does not mandate a specific percentage, the principles of generosity, regular giving, and supporting the work of the church and the needs of others are clear.
In practical terms, many Christians find tithing a helpful guideline for their giving. It can serve as a tangible way to prioritize God in their finances and contribute to the mission of the church. However, it is essential to remember that the heart of Christian giving is not about meeting a legalistic requirement but about responding to God's grace with gratitude and generosity.
Conclusion
In summary, while Jesus acknowledged the practice of tithing, He placed it within the broader context of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. The apostles, particularly Paul, emphasized cheerful and generous giving rather than a specific percentage. The New Testament encourages believers to give according to their means and with a joyful heart, reflecting the love and grace they have received from God.
Ultimately, whether one chooses to tithe or give in another way, the goal is to support the work of the church and the needs of others, embodying the generous and loving spirit of Christ. As Christians, we are called to live lives marked by generosity, not out of obligation, but out of a deep sense of gratitude for all that God has done for us.
