Is Tithing Required in the New Testament — In Biblical Context
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)
The Biblical Context
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.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, sits inside 2 Corinthians 9. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"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."
Supporting Passages
"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."
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