Biblical Answer

Is tithing required in the New Testament?

Tithing was an Old Testament principle that was a requirement for the people of Israel, but it is not explicitly required in the New Testament. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving, but it does not mandate a specific percentage of income to be given as a tithe. In fact, the Bible says that tithing is not required under the New Covenant (Hebrews 7:5-10).

However, the principle of tithing is still applicable in the New Testament. Jesus commends the Pharisees for their care in tithing even the smallest pieces of produce (Matthew 23:23). This suggests that tithing is still a valid principle, but it is not a requirement. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of giving proportionately, as seen in 1 Corinthians 16:2, where Paul instructs the Corinthians to give according to their means. This principle of giving proportionately is in line with the Old Testament law of tithing, which required a tenth of one's income to be given to God.

In addition to giving proportionately, the New Testament also emphasizes the importance of giving to those in need. In 1 Timothy 5:3-16, Paul instructs Timothy to give to those who are truly in need, including widows and orphans. This emphasis on giving to those in need is in line with the Old Testament principle of tithing, which included providing for the poor and needy. Therefore, while tithing is not explicitly required in the New Testament, the principle of giving proportionately and giving to those in need is still a valid and important principle for Christians to follow.