Is tithing still required today?

Tithing—the practice of giving a tenth of one’s income or produce to God—has been a longstanding tradition in many faith communities, especially within Christianity and Judaism. For centuries, believers have debated whether tithing is a biblical commandment that applies to modern-day followers or a ceremonial law specific to ancient Israel. As churches face questions about finances and generosity, the topic of tithing remains both practical and spiritual. So, is tithing still required today? To answer this, we must explore its biblical origins, New Testament teachings, and how different Christian traditions interpret its relevance.

The Old Testament Foundation of Tithing

Tithing first appears in the Old Testament. In Genesis 14:18–20, Abraham gives a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the priest-king of Salem. Later, Jacob vows to give God a tenth of his possessions if God protects him (Genesis 28:20–22). However, the formal institution of tithing comes through the Mosaic Law, where Israelites are commanded to give a tenth of their crops, herds, and flocks to support the Levites, who had no land inheritance (Numbers 18:21–24; Leviticus 27:30–32).

The tithe was more than a religious tax—it was an act of worship, gratitude, and support for the temple system, priests, and the poor. Every third year, a special tithe was also collected to assist foreigners, orphans, and widows (Deuteronomy 14:28–29).

Tithing in the New Testament

When we turn to the New Testament, the picture becomes less clear. Jesus mentions tithing when rebuking the Pharisees for their legalism: “Woe to you…for you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God” (Luke 11:42, ESV). Here, Jesus affirms that tithing was practiced, but he emphasizes the greater importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. However, he does not command his followers to tithe.

The Apostle Paul, writing to early Christian churches, never explicitly commands tithing. Instead, he teaches principles of generosity and cheerful giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Paul’s focus is on voluntary, heartfelt generosity rather than a fixed percentage.

Early Church Practice and Historical Development

The early church, as recorded in the Book of Acts, demonstrated remarkable generosity: believers sold possessions to care for those in need (Acts 2:44–45). There is no mention of formal tithing, but there is a strong ethic of sharing and supporting the community.

As Christianity became more institutionalized, tithing was gradually reintroduced, especially in the Middle Ages, as a way to sustain clergy and church functions. Over time, tithing became a widespread practice in Western Christianity, though its biblical basis for new covenant believers remained debated.

Arguments for Tithing Today

Many churches continue to teach tithing as a standard for Christian giving. Proponents argue that:

• It is a timeless principle: They see tithing as a foundational practice, predating the Mosaic Law and reflecting God’s desire for his people to honor him with their resources.
• It provides a guideline: A tenth offers a measurable, fair starting point for giving, helping believers avoid stinginess or neglect.
• It supports ministry and mission: Regular giving is essential for sustaining churches, supporting pastors, and funding outreach.

For these reasons, many pastors encourage their congregations to tithe, sometimes presenting it as a spiritual discipline that deepens trust in God’s provision.

Arguments Against Tithing as Required

Other Christians believe that tithing is not a requirement for today’s believers. Their arguments include:

• It was part of the Old Covenant: Tithing was specifically given to Israel under the Mosaic Law, which was fulfilled in Christ and is no longer binding on Christians (see Romans 7:6; Galatians 3:24–25).
• New Testament emphasizes generosity, not percentages: The teaching of Jesus and the apostles focuses on sacrificial, willing, and joyful giving, not a mandated tenth.
• It can become legalistic: Focusing on a fixed percentage may foster a check-box mentality rather than genuine love and generosity.

Many churches today encourage “grace giving”—contributing as God leads, which may be more or less than a tithe, depending on each person’s circumstances.

Practical Considerations for Today

Whether or not tithing is required, supporting one’s faith community remains a biblical value. Churches rely on the generosity of their members to carry out ministry, serve the poor, and spread the gospel. Giving—whether as a tithe or another amount—should flow from gratitude, faith, and a desire to participate in God’s work.

Believers are encouraged to examine their motives and means, seeking to give joyfully and sacrificially. For some, tithing serves as a helpful baseline; for others, it may be a starting point for even greater generosity.

Conclusion: The Spirit of Giving

Is tithing still required today? The Bible does not command New Testament believers to tithe, but it does call all Christians to be generous, faithful, and willing to support God’s work. Whether through tithing or another form of giving, the heart behind the gift matters most.