Is tithing scriptural in the new testament
The concept of tithing, or giving a tenth of one's income to God, is rooted in the Old Testament. In the Old Testament, tithing was a requirement for the Israelites to give a portion of their crops and livestock to the Levites, who were responsible for the spiritual care of the community (Leviticus 27:30-33, Deuteronomy 14:22-27).
However, the New Testament does not explicitly command Christians to tithe in the same way. In fact, the New Testament emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving to those in need, rather than a specific percentage of one's income.
Here are a few key passages that are often cited in discussions about tithing in the New Testament:
- Matthew 23:23 - Jesus teaches that giving to God is not just about giving a tenth of one's income, but about giving from the heart. He says, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cummin. 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."
- Luke 12:15 - Jesus teaches that it's not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth. He says, "Be on your guard against yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees." The disciples asked him to explain what he meant, and Jesus replied, "Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod." Peter then asked, "Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?" Jesus replied, "Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear." The implication is that giving to God is not just about giving a specific percentage of one's income, but about giving from a heart that is focused on God.
- 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 one should give what they have decided in their heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
- Galatians 6:6-10 - Paul writes, "The one who is taught the word must share all good things with the teacher. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
In summary, while the New Testament does not explicitly command Christians to tithe, it does emphasize the importance of generosity and giving to those in need. The focus is on giving from the heart, rather than giving a specific percentage of one's income.