What does the new testament say about tithing

The New Testament does not explicitly mention the concept of tithing as it is understood in modern Christianity, which is the practice of giving 10% of one's income to the church or a charitable organization. However, there are several passages that discuss giving and generosity, which can be applied to the concept of tithing.

Here are some key passages:

  1. 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 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 12:15: Jesus teaches that it is 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." The disciples then asked, "Why are you talking like that?" Jesus replied, "You have a fine way of setting aside the commandments of God in order to observe your own traditions! For Moses said, 'Honor your father and mother,' and, 'Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.' But you say that if anyone declares that what might have been used to help their father or mother will be used by you yourself, then you will not get caught in your vow. So then, you have made void the word of God because of your tradition." This passage highlights the importance of giving from the heart, rather than just giving a certain percentage of one's income.
  3. 1 Corinthians 9:6-14: Paul writes about his own financial situation and how he supports himself while preaching the gospel. He says, "I think it is not at all a bad thing for a man to have his own wife as well as his own children, and to have his own property and to be self-sufficient. For the man who does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." Paul then goes on to say that he has the right to be supported by the church, but he chooses not to exercise that right so that he can focus on preaching the gospel. This passage highlights the importance of giving generously and sacrificially, rather than just giving a certain percentage of one's income.
  4. 2 Corinthians 8:1-15: Paul writes about the collection for the Jerusalem church and encourages the Corinthians to give generously. He says, "Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For they are not only willing to share with God's people, but they are also willing to share with anyone, even strangers. They are the kind of people who are willing to share with others, even if it means going without themselves." This passage highlights the importance of giving generously and sacrificially, rather than just giving a certain percentage of one's income.

In summary, while the New Testament does not explicitly mention the concept of tithing, it does teach about the importance of giving from the heart, being generous and sacrificial, and supporting the church and its ministries.