Tithing in the New Testament Scriptures

Tithing in the New Testament is a topic that’s discussed with some nuance. While tithing was an established practice in the Old Testament, particularly in the Mosaic Law, the New Testament doesn’t explicitly command Christians to tithe (i.e., give a specific 10% of their income). However, some principles of generosity and giving are emphasized, which can inform how Christians approach financial stewardship.

1. Matthew 23:23 – Jesus mentions tithing in the context of criticizing the Pharisees for focusing on outward acts of righteousness while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He acknowledges tithing but suggests that it should not overshadow the more important matters of the law. 
   
   “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.”
   
   
2. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 – Paul speaks about giving, focusing on generosity rather than a fixed percentage.
   
   “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
   
   
3. Luke 6:38 – Jesus speaks to the principle of generosity, suggesting that the way we give will be reflected in how we receive.
   
   “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
   
   
4. Acts 20:35 – Paul quotes Jesus, emphasizing the value of giving and helping others.
   
   “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
   
   
5. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 – Paul gives instructions for collecting offerings for the saints in Jerusalem. He encourages believers to set aside a portion of their income regularly for this cause, though the exact percentage is not specified.
   
   “Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.”
   
   In summary, the New Testament encourages believers to be generous and to give from the heart, but it does not explicitly mandate the practice of tithing as a requirement. Instead, it promotes principles of cheerful, voluntary, and sacrificial giving according to one's ability. The focus is on a willing and joyful attitude toward helping others and supporting the work of the ministry.