Exploring the Debate: Is Tithing a New Testament Requirement?
In a recent discussion, esteemed theologian John Piper delved into a contentious topic within the Christian community: the relevance of tithing in the New Testament era. This examination arose from a listener’s question on Piper’s “Ask Pastor John” podcast, concerning a church’s policy that mandates its leaders to tithe 10% of their income.
The listener’s concern revolved around the potential impact such a requirement might have on the essence of generosity, referring to 2 Corinthians 9:7, which emphasizes that giving should be cheerful rather than forced.
Pastor Piper, also the chancellor of Bethlehem College and Seminary, addressed this by stating that Christian giving is rooted in joy and freedom. He commented, “I do not think tithing is a New Testament requirement the way ‘love your neighbor as yourself’ is a New Testament requirement (Mark 12:31).”
Piper explained that the practice of tithing was initially established to support the Levitical priesthood under the Old Testament’s sacrificial system, which no longer applies to the Christian Church. He outlined that the New Testament encourages giving out of a joy to uplift Christ’s mission, rather than as an obligation.
Drawing from scriptures like Romans 7:4-6 and Colossians 2:16-23, he noted that believers are called to live by love driven by the Spirit, not by Old Testament mandates.
He referenced 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 to emphasize that the New Testament promotes giving as a voluntary act of joy. Piper highlighted that although Jesus mentioned tithing in Matthew 23:23, this occurred before the New Covenant was established through His death and resurrection.
Piper concluded, “So, my conclusion is that it’s a mistake for the leaders of a church to make tithing a requirement for church leadership.” He believes Christian freedom should inspire believers to give generously, beyond the constraints of a tithe.
A Barna study from 2022 revealed varied understanding and practice of tithing among Christians. While 99% of pastors grasped the concept, only 21% of Christians tithed 10% to their local church. Among practicing Christians, 42% adhered to this practice.
Recent research from Infinity Concepts and Grey Matter Research highlighted a decline in financial contributions among Evangelical Christians, with a noted 17% decrease in church donations from 2021.
Financial advisor Dave Ramsey has also voiced his opinion, urging pastors to focus on teaching about debt and budgeting before emphasizing tithing. Ramsey’s approach stresses the importance of financial stewardship over strict adherence to tithing rules.
On the other hand, R.C. Sproul of Ligioner Ministers, in an op-ed, supported the biblical principle of stewardship, insisting that Christians are called to manage their resources for God’s Kingdom. Citing Malachi 3:8–10, he argued that failing to tithe equates to robbing God.
Sproul underscored that financial support is crucial for the expansion of Christ’s ministry, urging believers to prioritize tithing and instill this practice in their children, ultimately reflecting where one’s priorities lie, as taught in Matthew 6:33.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
