Is Tithing Required in the New Testament? A Biblical Perspective on Giving
Understanding Tithing in Christianity Today
Tithing is a long-standing Christian practice often associated with giving one-tenth of one’s income to the church. But is tithing still required under the New Testament? While many churches continue to teach and practice tithing, others emphasize the broader principle of generous giving as a matter of personal conviction. This article explores tithing in the Bible, its Old and New Testament contexts, and how modern Christians can interpret and apply the principle of giving in their spiritual lives.
The Biblical Foundation of Tithing
Old Testament Origins of Tithing
Tithing originates in the Old Testament, where it was instituted as a command for the Israelites. It involved giving a tenth of one’s produce or income to support the Levites, who served as priests without any land inheritance:
Numbers 18:21-24 outlines this system for supporting the Levitical priesthood.
Genesis 14:18-20 describes Abraham giving a tithe to Melchizedek, long before the Mosaic Law.
Genesis 28:20-22 also shows Jacob pledging a tithe to God, reinforcing that tithing predates the Law.
These examples highlight how tithing was rooted in gratitude, worship, and dependence on God.
Tithing in the New Testament: Law or Principle?
Jesus’ Teaching on Tithing
The New Testament does not establish tithing as a binding law for believers, but it does mention the practice:
In Matthew 23:23 and Luke 11:42, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for obsessing over tithing herbs while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Importantly, Jesus says, “You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former,” suggesting that while tithing is not dismissed, it should never replace deeper moral and spiritual obligations.
The New Testament Emphasis on Generous Giving
Rather than enforce a fixed percentage, the New Testament emphasizes generosity, cheerful giving, and personal conviction:
1 Corinthians 16:1-2 encourages believers to set aside a portion of income regularly for the work of the church.
2 Corinthians 9:5-7 emphasizes giving that is voluntary, cheerful, and purposeful—“not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This shift shows that Christian giving is not about obligation, but about the heart.
Why Many Churches Still Teach Tithing
Though the New Testament doesn’t command tithing as a law, many churches continue to teach it as a principle of proportional and consistent giving. It is seen as a spiritual discipline that:
Encourages regular support of church ministries and missions
Cultivates a heart of generosity and trust in God
Reflects gratitude for God’s provision
In this light, tithing is not about legalism, but about spiritual growth and faithfulness.
Tithing and the Ceremonial Law Debate
Some argue that tithing was a ceremonial law meant only for Old Testament Israel. While that argument has historical basis, the biblical principle of supporting God’s work through material means is timeless. The core idea is not tied to ritual but to generosity, worship, and stewardship.
The Bible consistently teaches that believers should give generously to support the work of the Gospel—whether or not they strictly adhere to a ten percent model.
Tithing as a Guiding Principle, Not a Requirement
While tithing is not mandated in the New Testament, it remains a valuable principle for Christians seeking to honor God with their finances. The spirit of the New Testament encourages:
Cheerful giving
Generosity in proportion to ability
Faithful support of ministry and the poor
Ultimately, whether a Christian chooses to tithe is a personal decision rooted in prayer, biblical understanding, and relationship with God. What matters most is the heart behind the giving.
Final Encouragement for Believers
Giving—whether through tithing or another method—is a way to reflect God’s generosity and invest in His kingdom. As Scripture teaches, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give… for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Tithing may not be a New Testament law, but the principle of joyful, sacrificial giving is eternally relevant.
