What does the Bible say about tithing in the New Testament? This question has intrigued Christians for centuries, as they seek to understand the biblical teaching on giving. The New Testament, while not as explicit as the Old Testament on the subject of tithing, still offers valuable insights into the principles of generosity and stewardship that are central to Christian life.
The New Testament does not explicitly command believers to tithe, as the Old Testament does (Leviticus 27:30-32). However, it does encourage a spirit of generosity and selflessness in the lives of believers. Jesus Christ, the ultimate example of Christian living, taught His disciples about the importance of giving and serving others.
One of the most notable passages on giving in the New Testament is found in the book of Luke, where Jesus tells a parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector. The Pharisee, proud and self-righteous, prays thanking God that he is not like other men, especially like the tax collector. In contrast, the tax collector, humble and aware of his sin, beats his breast and prays, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” Jesus concludes the parable by stating that the tax collector, rather than the Pharisee, went home justified before God (Luke 18:9-14).
This parable teaches that the focus of our giving should not be on the amount we give, but on the attitude with which we give. Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility and selflessness in our acts of generosity. While the Old Testament law required a tithe of 10% of one’s income, the New Testament encourages believers to give out of a heart of gratitude and love for God.
Another significant passage on giving in the New Testament is found in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, where Paul writes, “This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.”
Paul emphasizes that our giving should be generous and not out of compulsion or legalism. The New Testament encourages believers to give joyfully and freely, as an act of worship and gratitude to God. While the Old Testament tithe was a mandatory requirement, the New Testament teaches that giving should be a voluntary act of love and obedience.
In conclusion, the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing, but it does emphasize the importance of generosity and selflessness in the lives of believers. Jesus Christ, the ultimate example of Christian living, teaches us to give out of a heart of gratitude and love for God. The New Testament encourages believers to give joyfully and freely, as an act of worship and obedience to God. While the Old Testament tithe was a mandatory requirement, the New Testament teaches that giving should be a voluntary act of love and gratitude.
