Tithing is often a misunderstood concept among Christians, especially when trying to reconcile Old Testament practices with New Testament teachings. Many believers feel a sense of guilt if they do not give their tithe, viewing it as a direct command from God.
However, a closer look at Scripture reveals a different perspective on giving, especially in the light of the New Testament. This article will explore the biblical foundations of tithing and how the New Testament shifts the focus from mandatory giving to giving freely and joyfully.
The Old Testament Teaching on Tithing
Tithing, as described in the Old Testament, specifically involves giving a tenth of the produce of the land—grain, wine, oil, and livestock. It was a requirement for the Israelites to support the Levites, the temple, and the poor (Leviticus 27:30, Deuteronomy 14:22-23).
Importantly, it was not about giving money but rather the produce of the land, reflecting the agricultural society of that time. For example, in Malachi 3:10 (NLT), God says, “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple.”
To understand the significance of tithing, it’s essential to recognize that the tithe supported the Levitical priesthood and the temple system. Since the Levites had no land inheritance like the other tribes of Israel, they depended on the tithes for their livelihood. Numbers 18:21-24 (NLT) explains that the tithes were given to the Levites as their inheritance in return for their service in the tabernacle.
Jesus’ Teachings on Tithing and the Pharisees
In the New Testament, Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing but also points out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees who meticulously tithed their spices—mint, dill, and cumin—yet neglected more important matters of justice, mercy, and faith (Matthew 23:23 NLT).
Here, Jesus points out that while the Pharisees were careful to tithe the produce of the land, they neglected the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faith. Despite their flaws, the Pharisees are experts of the law, and tithing was centered around produce, not money. Tithing has never been about money.
Jesus’ criticism of the Pharisees highlights a crucial lesson for us today: strict adherence to religious practices, like tithing, is not enough if it is devoid of love and justice. The Pharisees’ focus on outward acts of piety did not make up for their lack of compassion and understanding of God’s deeper purposes.
For modern Christians, this teaching serves as a reminder that our giving should not be about legalistic rule-following. Instead, it should flow from a heart transformed by God’s love, one that seeks to honor Him not just through offerings but through living out justice, mercy, and faith in every aspect of life.
New Testament Principles of Giving
The New Testament shifts the focus from tithing as an obligation to giving as an act of love and generosity. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT), “You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.'”
This verse encapsulates the New Testament’s teaching on giving—it’s not about the amount or obligation but about the heart’s intention. Giving should be done freely, without compulsion, and with joy.
Additionally, Paul advises in 1 Corinthians 16:2 (NLT), “On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned.” This advice encourages believers to plan their giving and be intentional, allowing them to give out of a heart of generosity rather than pressure.
This principle of cheerful giving invites us to view our generosity as an opportunity to participate in God’s work, rather than a burdensome duty. It also encourages a shift in focus from mere obedience to joyful participation in God’s kingdom.
Addressing the Guilt Around Tithing
Many Christians may feel guilty if they do not tithe, believing they are disobeying God. However, it’s essential to understand that the New Testament does not mandate tithing in the way the Old Testament does. If someone gives out of guilt or obligation, they miss the New Testament’s spirit of giving.
Romans 14:23 (NLT) says, “But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning.”
This principle applies to tithing as well. If your heart convicts you to tithe, then do so. But if you understand that giving is meant to be done freely and with a joyful heart, then you should not feel bound by Old Testament laws.
It’s also crucial to recognize that guilt-driven giving contradicts the New Testament’s emphasis on cheerful and voluntary giving. Understanding this can help release unnecessary guilt and embrace the freedom found in Christ.
If you feel convicted to tithe, it’s important to honor that conviction while recognizing that tithing is not the only form of giving. God’s desire is for our generosity to be motivated by love, not fear or obligation. So, if you’re not convicted to tithe and don’t want to do it, then don’t, it is not a sin.
The Purpose of Giving in the Early Church
The early Christian church modeled giving as a communal act of love and support. Acts 2:44-45 (NLT) says, “And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.”
This generosity was not about fulfilling a requirement but about ensuring that no one among them was in need. It highlight how giving in the early church was driven by love and unity rather than obligation, providing a model for modern-day giving that focuses on caring for one another.
This spirit of generosity continued throughout the early church, as seen in Acts 4:34-35 (NLT): “There were no needy people among them because those who owned land or houses would sell them and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need.” The early Christians gave sacrificially and generously, demonstrating that giving is more than a duty—it’s an expression of love for God and others.
The early church’s approach to giving was deeply relational. They gave out of love for their community, prioritizing the well-being of others. This serves as a powerful example for believers today to cultivate a spirit of generosity that transcends obligation and is rooted in love and care for others.
Practical Ways to Give in the New Testament Context
Giving in the New Testament context is not limited to monetary donations. It encompasses time, resources, hospitality, and acts of service. For example, believers can support local churches, charities, and missions or offer help to those in need within their communities.
Matthew 25:35-36 (NLT) teaches us that giving can also involve meeting practical needs: “For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home.” New Testament giving is a holistic practice that extends beyond finances.
Whether it’s volunteering time, offering hospitality, or providing for someone’s needs, every act of generosity reflects God’s love. Whether through offering a meal to someone in need, volunteering at a local charity, or simply being present for a friend in distress, these actions, though simple, are powerful expressions of Christ-like generosity.
Debunking Common Myths About Tithing
Many believers hold misconceptions about tithing, such as the belief that tithing guarantees financial blessings or that not tithing incurs God’s wrath. It’s crucial to understand that God’s blessings are not transactional but rooted in His grace.
Luke 6:38 (NLT) reminds us, “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap.” This verse teaches that generosity brings blessings, but it’s not a formula for wealth. It’s a call to trust God’s provision.
It’s important to address these myths to prevent believers from approaching giving with the wrong motives. Instead of seeing giving as a way to gain favor or wealth, we should see it as an opportunity to participate in God’s work and bless others.
When giving is motivated by a desire to gain something in return, it loses its spiritual value. True generosity is rooted in love and trust in God’s provision, not in seeking material gain.
Balancing Financial Stewardship with Generosity
Giving should never come at the expense of your family’s needs. In fact, Scripture teaches that caring for your family is a primary responsibility. 1 Timothy 5:8 (NLT) states, “But those who won’t care for their relatives, especially those in their own household, have denied the true faith. Such people are worse than unbelievers.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of financial stewardship, ensuring that your family is well taken care of before considering giving to others. Paul also advises in 1 Corinthians 16:2 (NLT), “On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned.” This ensures that giving is done responsibly and joyfully, without leading to financial strain.
Balancing financial stewardship with generosity involves budgeting, saving, and giving in proportion to one’s means. It’s about being wise with God’s resources while still maintaining a generous heart.
Practical advice can include creating a budget that prioritizes both family needs and giving, allowing for generosity without compromising financial stability. This ensures that giving is sustainable and joyfully practiced.
Understanding Stewardship and Contentment
Christian stewardship goes beyond money; it’s about recognizing that everything we have belongs to God. We are merely caretakers of His resources. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NLT) teaches, “Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it.”
Contentment allows us to manage our resources wisely and give generously without feeling the pressure to accumulate more. Contentment also guards our hearts against the temptation of materialism, helping us focus on what truly matters—loving God and serving others.
Encouraging your friends and family to cultivate a heart of contentment can free them from the relentless pursuit of wealth and allow them to experience the joy of giving without anxiety or fear of lack.
Addressing the Fear of Lack When Giving
Many believers hesitate to give because they fear not having enough for themselves. However, Jesus reassures us in Matthew 6:31-33 (NLT), “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’… Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”
Trusting God as our provider allows us to give freely without fear of lack. Overcoming this fear requires faith, trusting that God will meet our needs even as we give generously.
Practical steps to overcome this fear can include starting with small acts of generosity and gradually increasing as your faith in God’s provision grows. This practice builds trust and demonstrates God’s faithfulness in providing for your needs.
Encouraging a Lifestyle of Generosity
Generosity isn’t just an occasional act; it’s a way of life. Luke 6:38 (NLT) emphasizes, “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full.” Cultivating a lifestyle of generosity involves being open-handed with our resources, time, and talents. Whether through small acts of kindness or significant contributions, a generous lifestyle reflects God’s love to the world.
You can regularly set aside time or resources to help others, making hospitality a habit, or mentoring someone in need of guidance. These practices can help make generosity a natural part of your everyday lives.
Conclusion
This is a long article, so let me conclude by summarizing that tithing, as taught in the Old Testament, was about giving a portion of one’s produce from the land, not money. Jesus highlighted the hypocrisy of the Pharisees who focused on the legalistic aspect of tithing while neglecting the weightier matters of the law.
In the New Testament, the emphasis is on giving freely, cheerfully, and without compulsion. Additionally, it’s essential to prioritize caring for your family and practicing financial stewardship. Overcoming fears of lack, living a life of contentment, and practicing discernment in giving all play a role in aligning our hearts with God’s will.
If you’ve struggled with guilt over not tithing, recognize that God desires your heart more than your obligatory offerings. However, if you feel convicted to tithe, honor that conviction as an act of faith. Ultimately, giving should be a joyful expression of your love for God and others, not a burden.
May this understanding of tithing and New Testament giving bring peace to your heart and clarity to your walk with God. Embrace the freedom of giving, and trust that God will provide as you honor Him with your resources.