7 Reasons Why Christians Don’t Have to Tithe

Scripture References:

Introduction

Good morning, Church. Today, I want to address a topic that often brings about debate and confusion—tithing. You’ve likely heard many arguments that Christians must give 10% of their income to the church, often based on Old Testament practices. But as believers in Christ, we need to ask, Is tithing still a requirement for Christians today?

In today’s sermon, I will give you seven reasons why Christians don’t have to tithe as it’s commonly understood, and why our focus should be on generosity, not on following a strict 10% rule.

1. Tithing in the Old Testament

Let’s begin by understanding what tithing was in the Old Testament. The concept of tithing—giving 10%—was a practice that began with people like Abraham and Jacob. In Genesis 14:20, we read that Abraham gave Melchizedek a tenth of the spoils from a military victory: “And Abram gave him a tenth of everything.” Likewise, Jacob, in Genesis 28:22, promises to give God a tenth of all he receives: “Of all that you give me I will give a full tenth to you.”

But here’s the thing: these gifts were one-time events. They were expressions of gratitude, not a command for all believers. Abraham wasn’t required to tithe; he did so freely, out of thanksgiving. Jacob’s vow was a personal promise, not a legalistic rule for everyone.

The idea of tithing in the Old Testament was also tied to the Levitical system, which we will explore next.

2. Abraham and Jacob’s Gifts Were Unique

Abraham and Jacob’s tithes were special occasions; they were not meant to set a precedent for everyone. These were acts of personal devotion, not commands for all believers. For instance, Jacob’s vow was a one-time expression of gratitude: it was not meant to be a universal rule for all Christians.

We must understand that these acts were responses to personal encounters with God, not obligations we are required to replicate today.

3. No More Levites and Priests

In the Old Testament, the Israelites were commanded to give tithes to support the Levitical priesthood and the temple system. The Levites did not have land of their own; they depended on the tithes of the people (Leviticus 27:30-32). But the moment Jesus came and established the New Covenant, the priesthood was changed.

1 Peter 2:9 tells us that, in Christ, all believers are priests: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation…” Under the New Covenant, we are no longer required to give to Levites or priests in the same way. Jesus, our High Priest, has already made the ultimate sacrifice (Hebrews 7:27). We are now the priesthood of believers, and we worship God directly. The old system of tithing for the support of a special priesthood no longer applies to us.

4. Tithes Were for the Land of Israel

Another crucial point is that the tithing laws were tied specifically to the land of Israel. The Israelites were commanded to tithe from the fruits of their land and livestock (Deuteronomy 14:22-24). These laws were geographically specific, and they were related to a theocratic kingdom—meaning, Israel was a nation directly under God’s rule.

Today, Christians do not live in the land of Israel, nor are we under a theocratic government. Our focus is on the heavenly kingdom, not an earthly one. The geographical, national, and agricultural context of tithing in the Old Testament does not apply to us.

5. How Much Should We Give?

Some people argue for tithing because it’s a simple rule to follow: “Give 10%.” However, if we were to follow the Old Testament tithing laws exactly, we would be required to give much more than 10%. In fact, many scholars suggest that when you account for all the various tithes and offerings commanded in the Old Testament (e.g., for festivals, for the poor), the total amount would be closer to 20% rather than 10%.

So, those who advocate for tithing should consider this. If we’re going to follow the Old Testament law, it’s not just 10%, but potentially more than double that. Thankfully, we are no longer under the Old Covenant.

6. Jesus’ Teachings Were Before the New Covenant

Some people point to Jesus’ words in Matthew 23:23, where He says, “You should have tithed, without neglecting the weightier matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness.” However, it’s important to note that Jesus spoke before the New Covenant was established. He was still under the Old Covenant, and the requirements of the law were still in effect.

We no longer live under the Old Covenant. Jesus’ death and resurrection inaugurated the New Covenant, where salvation is no longer tied to the law, but to faith in Christ. Just as we no longer offer animal sacrifices, we are no longer required to tithe as a legal requirement. Jesus’ words about tithing were part of the old system, not the new.

7. New Testament Focuses on Generosity, Not Tithing

When we look at the New Testament teachings about giving, we find no mention of tithing. Instead, the focus is on generosity and sacrificial giving. Acts 2:43-47 tells us how the early church shared everything in common, giving freely to meet each other’s needs. Likewise, Paul encourages believers to give according to their means and to be cheerful givers (2 Corinthians 9:7).

1 Corinthians 16:1-4 also speaks about giving for the needs of the poor, without a specific percentage or amount required. The New Testament teaching is about a heart of generosity, not a legalistic formula.

Conclusion: Give Generously, Not Legalistically

While the Old Testament practice of tithing is no longer a requirement under the New Covenant, that does not mean we should hold back from giving. Generosity is still a command of Scripture. We are called to support those who share the gospel, to help those in need, and to use our resources for God’s glory.

For many of us, this might even mean giving more than 10%. The key is that our giving should come from a heart of gratitude and generosity, not out of obligation or legalism. In fact, the Bible encourages us to give freely and cheerfully, trusting that God will provide for us and that He is the ultimate source of all blessings.

Remember, the Bible is our guide—not tradition. We must avoid the trap of legalistic thinking and instead follow the New Covenant principle of sacrificial and cheerful giving.

Let us pray:

Go in peace, and may your generosity reflect the love and grace of God in all that you do.