Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one's income to the church, is a topic that has generated much discussion among Christians. To understand whether tithing is required for Christians according to the New Testament, it is essential to explore the scriptural basis for tithing, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, and the broader principles of generosity and stewardship that are emphasized in the New Testament.
The concept of tithing originates from the Old Testament, where it was established as a requirement for the Israelites. In Leviticus 27:30, it is written, "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." This practice was further reinforced in Deuteronomy 14:22-23, where the Israelites were instructed to set aside a tenth of their produce each year. The purpose of the tithe was to support the Levitical priesthood, who had no inheritance of land, and to provide for the poor, the orphans, and the widows (Deuteronomy 14:28-29).
In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of tithing in several passages. One notable instance is found in Matthew 23:23, where Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing while neglecting more important matters of the law: "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 overshadow the weightier aspects of the law, such as justice and mercy.
Another significant passage is found in Luke 18:9-14, where Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee boasts about his tithing, saying, "I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get" (Luke 18:12). However, Jesus commends the tax collector, who humbly acknowledges his sinfulness and seeks God's mercy. This parable underscores the importance of humility and repentance over self-righteousness and legalistic observance of religious practices.
The apostle Paul also addresses the issue of giving in his letters to the early Christian communities. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Paul writes, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 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 passage highlights the principle of voluntary and cheerful giving, rather than a mandated percentage. Paul encourages believers to give generously and willingly, motivated by love and gratitude rather than obligation.
Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, Paul provides practical instructions for the collection of offerings: "Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. 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." Here, Paul emphasizes regular and proportional giving, based on one's income, as a means of supporting the needs of the church and its mission.
The New Testament does not explicitly mandate tithing as a requirement for Christians. Instead, it emphasizes the principles of generosity, stewardship, and voluntary giving. The early Christian community practiced radical generosity, as described in Acts 2:44-45: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need." This communal sharing was motivated by love and a deep sense of responsibility towards one another.
Christian literature also reflects this perspective on giving. In his book "The Treasure Principle," Randy Alcorn writes, "God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving." Alcorn emphasizes that Christians are called to be stewards of God's resources, using their blessings to further God's kingdom and help those in need. Similarly, C.S. Lewis, in "Mere Christianity," states, "I do not believe one can settle how much we ought to give. I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare."
While tithing is not presented as a binding requirement in the New Testament, it can still serve as a useful guideline for Christians seeking to practice faithful stewardship. The principle of giving a tenth can be a starting point for believers to cultivate a habit of generosity. However, it is essential to recognize that the ultimate goal is not to adhere to a specific percentage but to develop a heart that is willing to give sacrificially and joyfully.
In conclusion, the New Testament does not require Christians to tithe in the same way that the Old Testament commanded the Israelites. Instead, it calls believers to a higher standard of generosity and stewardship, motivated by love and gratitude. Christians are encouraged to give regularly, proportionally, and cheerfully, supporting the work of the church and helping those in need. By embracing these principles, believers can honor God with their resources and contribute to the flourishing of His kingdom.
