Should A Christian Tithe?
Should a Christian Tithe?
Many Christians struggle with the idea of tithing. It’s an ongoing debate in the Christian community—some say it’s a biblical mandate, while others believe it’s no longer required. So, what does the Bible actually say about tithing and giving?
What is Tithing?
Tithing is an Old Testament concept where the Israelites were required to give 10% of their harvest to support the temple, the priests, and the Levites. It was a way to ensure that those who served in God’s house were provided for.
The Bible references tithing in several places:
Deuteronomy 14:24 – Instructions on bringing the tithe to the designated place of worship.
Numbers 18:26 – The Levites were to give a tenth of what they received as an offering to the Lord.
2 Chronicles 31:5 – The Israelites brought in tithes of grain, wine, oil, honey, and livestock.
Leviticus 27:30 – A tithe of everything from the land was considered holy to the Lord.
What About the New Testament?
Nowhere in the New Testament is tithing commanded for Christians. However, the concept of giving is mentioned multiple times. Jesus praised sacrificial giving when He spoke about the widow’s mite (Mark 12:41-44), and the apostles encouraged generosity.
Here are some key verses about giving:
Luke 6:38 (NKJV) – “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”
Giving is not just about money; it’s about a heart of generosity. When we give, God blesses us in return.1 Corinthians 16:2 (NKJV) – “On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.”
Paul encouraged the church to set aside offerings regularly, not as a law, but as a way to support ministry.2 Corinthians 9:7-10 (NKJV) – “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Giving should be from the heart, not out of obligation or pressure.
Should Christians Tithe?
While some church leaders emphasize tithing, even saying it’s a sin not to, the New Testament does not place a specific demand on Christians to tithe. Instead, it encourages generous and cheerful giving to support the work of the gospel.
5 Reasons to Give.
It Honors God – Giving acknowledges that all we have comes from Him.
Proverbs 3:9 (NKJV) – “Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase.”
It Supports the Church and Ministry – Your giving helps spread the gospel and support those in need.
Malachi 3:10 (NKJV) – “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.”
It Strengthens Your Faith – Trusting God with your finances grows your faith in His provision.
Matthew 6:31-33 (NKJV) – “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
It Blesses Others – Your generosity can change lives and meet real needs.
Acts 20:35 (NKJV) – “I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
It Brings Personal Fulfillment – Giving leads to joy, peace, and a heart aligned with God’s purposes.
2 Corinthians 9:11 (NKJV) – “While you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God.”
The Bottom Line
Giving should be a vital part of every Christian’s life. Some may choose to give 10% without difficulty, while for others, even 3% is a significant sacrifice. What matters most is the heart behind the giving—not the percentage. God desires cheerful, willing givers, not those who give out of guilt or compulsion.
What are your thoughts on tithing? Do you practice it, or do you prefer to give in a different way? Share your perspective!