Is tithing required for New Testament Christians?
My pastor says we must tithe 10% or we are robbing God (Malachi 3:10). But I've read that we are no longer under the Mosaic law. Is tithing a command for New Testament believers or is it optional?
2 Answers
The tithe (10%) is a Mosaic covenant requirement that is not repeated as a command in the New Testament epistles. Paul's instruction in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 sets a different standard: give as you have purposed in your heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion. Many believers use the tithe as a starting point — a useful discipline — but New Testament generosity is spirit-led, not percentage-bound. Malachi 3:10 was addressed to Israel under the old covenant; applying it directly to the church requires care.
I would add that Abraham tithed before the law (Genesis 14:20), suggesting it is a principle that transcends the Mosaic covenant. I give at least 10% as a minimum expression of honour to God, while holding it loosely as a rule.
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