Tithes and offering scriptures in the new testament

Here are some key scriptures related to tithes and offerings in the New Testament:

Tithes:

  1. Matthew 23:23: "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."
  2. Luke 11:42: "But woe to you Pharisees! You give a tenth of your garden herbs. Yet you neglect justice and love for God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone."
  3. Hebrews 7:1-10: This passage discusses the priesthood of Melchizedek and the principle of giving a tenth (tithe) to God. While the Old Testament law required a tithe, the New Testament emphasizes giving generously and cheerfully, rather than simply fulfilling a legal requirement.

Offerings:

  1. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: "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."
  2. Philippians 4:15-18: Paul expresses gratitude to the Philippians for their financial support, which was a sacrifice for them. He encourages them to continue giving, and promises that God will supply their needs.
  3. 1 Corinthians 16:1-4: Paul instructs the Corinthians to set aside a portion of their income on the first day of the week (Sunday) for the collection of offerings for the poor and needy in Jerusalem.

General principles:

  1. Matthew 6:3-4: "But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
  2. 1 John 3:17: "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters."
  3. 2 Corinthians 8:12: "For if there is first a willing heart, it is accepted according to what one has, not according to what one does not have."

These scriptures emphasize the importance of giving generously, cheerfully, and sacrificially, rather than simply fulfilling a legal requirement. They also highlight the importance of giving in secret, without seeking recognition or reward, and the principle of giving according to one's means.