To Tithe or Not to Tithe: Exploring Giving in the New Testament

Discover the truth about tithing for New Testament believers. Should Christians tithe? Explore the controversy and find out how to give from the heart.

Tithing is a topic that has been debated for years among Christians. Some argue that tithing is a biblical mandate that should be followed by all believers, while others claim that it is an Old Testament concept that does not apply to New Testament believers. In this article, we will explore the question of whether tithing is for the New Testament believer.

What is Tithing?

Before we delve into the question of whether tithing is for the New Testament believer, it is essential to define what tithing is. Tithing is the practice of giving one-tenth of your income to the church or a religious organization. The word "tithe" comes from the Old English word "teogotha," which means "tenth."

Tithing in the Old Testament

Tithing is mentioned several times in the Old Testament. In Leviticus 27:30, God commanded the Israelites, "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." The Israelites were also instructed to give tithes of their livestock (Leviticus 27:32).

The purpose of tithing in the Old Testament was to support the Levites, who were responsible for the care of the tabernacle and the sacrifices. The Levites did not receive any land inheritance, so the tithes were their source of income (Numbers 18:21-24).

Tithing in the New Testament

The New Testament does not have as many references to tithing as the Old Testament. However, some argue that Jesus endorsed tithing in Matthew 23:23 when he said, "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."

Opponents of tithing in the New Testament argue that Jesus was not endorsing tithing but rather rebuking the Pharisees for their legalistic approach to tithing. Jesus was more concerned with the heart behind the giving than the amount given.

Giving in the New Testament

While tithing may not be explicitly mentioned in the New Testament, giving is emphasized. 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." Giving in the New Testament is not about fulfilling a legalistic requirement but rather about giving from the heart as an act of worship.

Some argue that giving in the New Testament goes beyond tithing. In Acts 4:32-35, the early church shared everything they had, and no one was in need. Giving in the New Testament is not limited to a specific percentage but rather a generous and sacrificial giving.

Should New Testament Believers Tithe?

The question of whether New Testament believers should tithe is a personal decision. Some believers choose to tithe as a form of worship, while others view giving as a broader concept that goes beyond a specific percentage.

If a believer chooses to tithe, it should not be done out of legalism or obligation but rather as an act of worship and gratitude. Tithing should not be viewed as a way to earn God's favor or blessings but rather as a way to honor God with our resources.

Conclusion

Tithing is a controversial topic among Christians, and there is no clear answer to whether New Testament believers should tithe. However, giving is emphasized in the New Testament, and believers should give generously and sacrificially. Giving should be done from the heart as an act of worship and gratitude, not out of obligation or legalism.

FAQs

1. Should I tithe if I am in debt?
While tithing is an act of worship, it should not put you in financial hardship. If you are in debt, prioritize paying off your debts before tithing. God is more concerned with your financial freedom than your tithing.

2. Can I tithe to a non-religious organization?
While the Bible mentions tithing to the church or religious organization, giving to a non-religious organization is also a form of giving. However, it is important to pray and seek God's guidance on where to give.

3. How much should I give if I don't tithe?
Giving is a personal decision, and there is no specific amount that one should give. However, giving should be from the heart, generous, and sacrificial.

4. What if I can't afford to give?
Giving should not put you in financial hardship. If you cannot afford to give, focus on managing your finances and seeking God's guidance on how to honor Him with your resources.

5. Does God bless those who tithe?
While tithing should not be viewed as a way to earn God's blessings, God does promise to bless those who honor Him with their resources (Malachi 3:10). However, the blessings may not necessarily be financial but rather spiritual.