Is Tithing Required in the New Testament?
Is Tithing Required in the New Testament? While the New Testament doesn't explicitly command a 10% tithe, it teaches principles of generous, sacrificial, proportional, and cheerful giving that often exceed 10%.
Key verse: 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (KJV)
While the New Testament doesn't explicitly command a 10% tithe, it teaches principles of generous, sacrificial, proportional, and cheerful giving that often exceed 10%.
While the New Testament doesn't explicitly command a 10% tithe, it teaches principles of generous, sacrificial, proportional, and cheerful giving that often exceed 10%.
"But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." — 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
This is a frequently debated topic. The 10% tithe was established in the Old Testament Law (Leviticus 27:30). Jesus affirmed tithing (Matthew 23:23) while emphasizing it shouldn't replace 'weightier matters.' However, the New Testament emphasis shifts from a fixed percentage to heart-driven generosity. Paul's principles include: give as you have purposed in your heart (2 Corinthians 9:7), give proportionally (1 Corinthians 16:2), give cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7), give generously (2 Corinthians 9:6), and give sacrificially (2 Corinthians 8:2-3—the Macedonians gave 'beyond their power'). The early church gave radically—even selling possessions (Acts 2:44-45). Many teachers view 10% as a helpful starting point, not a ceiling. Under grace, the standard is not less than the Law required but more—motivated by love rather than obligation.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Tithing?
Biblical principles about tithing, giving a tenth, and generous financial worship.
Key Scripture References
"But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
"Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him."
"These ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Tithing?
The Old Testament established the tithe (10% of income) as God's standard for giving, while the New Testament emphasizes generous, cheerful, and proportional giving.
What Does the Bible Say About Giving and Generosity?
The Bible teaches that generous giving reflects God's character, should be done cheerfully and sacrificially, and results in both spiritual and material blessing.
What Does the Bible Say About Money?
The Bible teaches that money itself is not evil, but the love of money is the root of all evil, and believers must be wise stewards of their finances.
What Does the Bible Say About Love?
The Bible defines love not as a feeling but as a sacrificial choice — modeled perfectly by God's gift of His Son.
How Do You Forgive Others According to the Bible?
Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and choosing not to hold someone's offense against them — just as God in Christ forgave us.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside 2 Corinthians. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read 2 Corinthians on day 330 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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