What is tithing in the new testament

Tithing in the New Testament refers to the practice of giving a tenth of one's income or possessions to God or the church. The concept of tithing is rooted in the Old Testament, where it was a requirement for the Israelites to give a tenth 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).

In the New Testament, the concept of tithing is not explicitly commanded, but there are several passages that suggest the importance of giving generously to support the work of God and the needs of others. Here are a few examples:

1. Matthew 23:23 - Jesus teaches that giving to God is not just about giving a tenth, 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 careful, or you will be entangled in sin and fall, because a snare is put before you. The things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and the mouth speaks what the heart is full of."
3. 1 Corinthians 9:7-12 - Paul writes that he has the right to be supported by the church, but he chooses not to exercise that right. Instead, he works to support himself, so that he can devote himself fully to the ministry. He says, "Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its grapes? Who tends a flock and does not drink the milk?"
4. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 - Paul writes that God loves a cheerful giver, and that giving should be done generously and without expecting anything in return. He 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."

In summary, while the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing, it does emphasize the importance of giving generously to support the work of God and the needs of others. The focus is on giving from the heart, rather than just giving a specific percentage of one's income.