New testament and tithing

The topic of tithing in the New Testament is a complex and debated issue among Christians. Here's a summary of the main arguments:

Arguments for tithing in the New Testament:

  1. Malachi 3:8-10: This passage is often cited as a biblical basis for tithing. It says, "Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, 'In what way have we robbed You?' In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse, for you have robbed Me, this whole nation." The passage goes on to say that if the people would bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, God would open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings.
  2. Hebrews 7:1-10: This passage speaks about the priestly tribe of Levi, who received tithes from the Israelites. The author of Hebrews argues that Jesus, as the high priest, is greater than Levi and therefore deserves a greater portion of our resources.
  3. 1 Corinthians 9:6-14: Paul writes about his right to receive financial support from the Corinthians, but he chooses not to exercise that right. Some interpret this passage as an example of tithing, where Paul is giving up his right to receive financial support in order to serve the Corinthians.

Arguments against tithing in the New Testament:

  1. The context of Malachi 3:8-10: Some argue that the context of Malachi 3:8-10 is specific to the Israelites and their covenant with God, and that it is not applicable to Christians today.
  2. The abolition of the law: Some argue that the law, including the law of tithing, was abolished with the coming of Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:14, Ephesians 2:15). Therefore, the principle of tithing is no longer applicable.
  3. The emphasis on generosity: Some argue that the New Testament emphasizes generosity and giving, rather than tithing specifically. For example, 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 says, "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."
  4. The lack of explicit command: Some argue that there is no explicit command in the New Testament to tithe, and that the principle of tithing is not consistently applied throughout the New Testament.

Conclusion:

While there are arguments for and against tithing in the New Testament, it is clear that the Bible emphasizes the importance of giving and generosity. Christians are called to be good stewards of their resources and to give generously to support the work of God. Ultimately, the decision to tithe or not is a personal one that should be made in light of one's own spiritual walk and financial situation.