Given the Old Testament’s clear instructions on tithing as a form of obedience and provision for the Levites and temple, how does the New Testament address the concept of giving? Specifically, are Christians under a direct command to tithe 10% of their income, considering the emphasis on grace, voluntary giving, and the fulfillment of the law through Christ? Does the New Testament offer alternative models or principles for financial stewardship that supersede or reinterpret the Old Testament’s tithing mandate?
Answer
While the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing as a mandatory practice for Christians in the same way it was in the Old Testament, the issue is complex and open to interpretation.
Arguments Against Tithing as a Command:
- Shift in Covenant: The New Testament emphasizes grace through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than adherence to a strict legal code like the Mosaic Law. Some argue that tithing was part of the Old Covenant and is not binding under the New Covenant.
- Focus on Generosity: The New Testament highlights the importance of generous giving, sacrificial giving, and cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:7) rather than a fixed percentage. It emphasizes giving according to one’s ability and with a willing heart.
- Emphasis on Spiritual Transformation: The New Testament focuses on inward transformation and a change of heart, leading to a natural desire to give generously and support the church and those in need.
- No Direct Command from Jesus: Jesus addresses tithing in Matthew 23:23 and Luke 11:42, acknowledging its practice among the Pharisees. However, he doesn’t explicitly command his followers to tithe in the same way. Instead, he critiques the Pharisees’ legalistic approach to tithing while neglecting weightier matters like justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Arguments for Tithing as a Principle:
- Principle of Giving: Some argue that tithing represents a principle of giving back to God a portion of what He has provided. They see it as a baseline for giving, encouraging believers to give at least 10% and potentially more.
- Support for Ministry: Tithing is seen as a way to financially support the church and its ministries, including pastors, missionaries, and outreach programs. 1 Corinthians 9 discusses the support of those who preach the gospel.
- Honoring God: Some believe that tithing is a way to honor God and acknowledge His provision. Proverbs 3:9 encourages honoring God with the "firstfruits" of all your produce.
- Foundation for Generosity: Tithing can serve as a starting point for developing a generous lifestyle and learning to prioritize giving.
- Continuity with the Old Testament: Some argue that while the legalistic aspects of the Old Testament are not binding, the underlying principles remain relevant. They see tithing as a principle that transcends the Old and New Covenants.
New Testament Examples of Giving:
- Acts 4:32-37: The early church in Jerusalem shared their possessions freely, selling property and distributing the proceeds to those in need. This demonstrates a spirit of radical generosity.
- 2 Corinthians 8-9: Paul encourages the Corinthian church to give generously to support the believers in Jerusalem. He emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully.
Conclusion:
The New Testament doesn’t explicitly command tithing as a mandatory practice for Christians. However, it strongly emphasizes the importance of generous, sacrificial, and cheerful giving to support the church, its ministries, and those in need. Whether or not to tithe is ultimately a matter of personal conviction and conscience, guided by prayer, Scripture, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Many Christians choose to tithe as a way to honor God and support the church, while others prefer to give a different percentage or amount based on their individual circumstances and beliefs. The key is to give willingly and generously, with a heart of love and gratitude towards God.
Pray This Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before you today with questions in our hearts, seeking understanding and guidance from your Word. We ponder the role of giving in our lives, specifically the concept of tithing. Is it, Father, a command specifically for Christians in the New Testament?
We know that the Old Testament Law held certain requirements for your people, including tithing a portion of their increase. We also read in the New Testament of Jesus’ teachings on generosity, sacrifice, and loving our neighbor. Help us to discern, through your Holy Spirit, the true spirit of giving that you desire in our lives.
Guide us as we study scripture, seeking wisdom and truth. Show us how to balance the teachings of both Testaments, understanding the context and applying the principles to our lives today. May our giving be motivated by a grateful heart, overflowing with love for you and compassion for those in need.
Help us not to focus solely on percentages or legalistic requirements, but on the attitude of our hearts. May we be generous and cheerful givers, offering our resources willingly and joyfully to support your work and bless others.
Lord, reveal to us the freedom and grace that you offer, and empower us to live lives that reflect your generosity. May we be good stewards of all that you have entrusted to us, using our resources to further your kingdom and bring glory to your name.
We ask all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
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