What Does the Bible Say About Tithing?
Tithing is a common topic in churches, but does the Bible command Christians to give 10% of their income? Many believers wrestle with whether tithing is a biblical requirement or an Old Testament practice that no longer applies under the New Covenant. Let’s examine what Scripture teaches about tithing and Christian giving.
What Was the Old Testament Tithe?
The word “tithe” means “a tenth,” and in the Old Testament, Israel was commanded to give a tenth of their produce and livestock to support the Levites and the work of the temple.
- Leviticus 27:30 — “Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.”
- Numbers 18:21 — The tithe was given to the Levites as their inheritance since they had no land of their own.
- Malachi 3:10 — “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.”
However, Israel was not just required to give 10%. When all required offerings were counted, their total giving was closer to 23% annually.
Is Tithing Required for Christians?
In the New Testament, the tithe is never commanded for the church. Instead, believers are called to give generously, sacrificially, and joyfully.
- 2 Corinthians 9:7 — “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
- 1 Corinthians 16:2 — Paul instructs believers to set aside a portion of their income for giving, but he does not specify a percentage.
The New Testament emphasizes grace giving rather than a mandatory percentage. Under the law, Israel had to give. Under grace, Christians give freely out of love and worship.
How Much Should a Christian Give?
While Christians are not under the Old Testament tithe, the principle of giving remains. Instead of a set percentage, giving is based on what God has provided and how He leads each believer.
- Acts 2:44-45 — The early church shared their possessions freely to meet the needs of others.
- 2 Corinthians 8:3-4 — The Macedonian believers gave “beyond their means, of their own accord.”
Rather than a rigid 10%, Christians are called to give:
- Generously — Giving should be sacrificial and from the heart.
- Cheerfully — It should not feel forced but be done joyfully.
- Proportionally — As God prospers us, we should give accordingly.
Why Should Christians Give?
Giving is an act of worship and trust in God’s provision. It reflects our faith and love for Christ.
- Matthew 6:19-21 — “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
- Proverbs 3:9-10 — “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.”
God does not need our money, but He calls us to be good stewards of what He has entrusted to us.
Should a Christian Tithe?
The Bible does not command Christians to tithe, but it does call us to be generous, joyful, and sacrificial in our giving. Rather than following a rigid 10% rule, believers should prayerfully consider how much to give and do so willingly for the glory of God.
Are you trusting God with your finances? Ask Him to guide your heart in giving.