Biblical Answer

The Requirement of Tithing in the New Testament

The New Testament does not explicitly require tithing, as it is an Old Testament principle that was specifically tied to the Mosaic covenant. The command to tithe was part of the law given to the people of Israel, and it was a requirement for those living under the Sinai covenant. However, since Christians live under the new covenant, the requirement to tithe does not automatically apply as stated in the Old Testament. The emphasis in the New Testament is on generosity and giving, rather than on a specific percentage or amount.

The example of Jesus and the Pharisees in Matthew 23:23 highlights the importance of generosity and the need to go beyond the minimum requirements of the law. Jesus commends the Pharisees for their care in tithing even the smallest pieces of produce, but He criticizes them for neglecting other important aspects of the law, such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness. This example suggests that the New Testament emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving, rather than the specific requirement of tithing.

In the New Testament, the emphasis is on giving generously and sacrificially, rather than on a specific percentage or amount. The apostle Paul writes, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). This passage emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving, but does not specify a particular percentage or amount. The principle of tithing is not explicitly required in the New Testament, but the emphasis on generosity and giving is a fundamental aspect of Christian living.