- 10% was not the minimum amount for Israel. They gave less than 10% at times. (Hebrews 7:4; Numbers 31:28-30)
- The New Testament does not command, address, or mention tithing to the Gentiles who are unfamiliar with Jewish practices.
- Jesus’ own ministry operated from freewill offerings. He also commanded the disciples to receive freely. (Luke 8:1-3, Matthew 10:8-10)
- The children of God under his family are not taxed. They are free to give (Matthew 17:25; Galatians 4:5)
- Tithing was not a requirement prior to the Mosaic law considering Jacob freely offered God 10%. (Genesis 28:20)
- None of the Israelites tithed while outside of the promised land. (Deuteronomy 12:5)
- Abraham’s tithe was under the Old Covenant, which was established before Moses and was also fulfilled (Genesis 3; Hebrews 8:13)
- Giving would be the only spiritual gift with a minimum requirement and not led by the Spirit.
- There are no commands to modify tithing with how we practice it today, so people have to make up correlations to get it to fit into the church.
- Israelites who did not grow food or raise animals did not tithe. (Leviticus 27:30)
- Giving is not by compulsion. (2 Corinthians 9:6-9)
- The Levitical priests were required to serve 25 years, and just like tithing, the New Testament doesn’t recall this requirement either
- Unless giving 10% is the spiritual nature of God’s holiness, then it falls under the same classification of other interim tokens in the Old Covenant that Christ fulfilled
Marty says
Ten Reasons why Tithing Is Not Required is an excellent response to the the persistent lie that God still requires the Old Testament tithe ordinance.
I also recommend buying Dr. Kelly’s book which I’m in the process of reading because it is one of the most thoroughly documented researched book on this subject ever published. Kelly uses scripture after scripture to back up every point and Chapter. God bless this guy, he is very brave. Few people dare to question Church leadership for fear of being labeled a trouble maker and Bible quotes that they use to keep you in line such as “touch not my anointed”. Someone has to speak up for what is right and true. Jesus has now rescued us from the curse of the law. Tithing is not a requirement for the New Testament Church anywhere in the New Testament. When I read my Bible and discovered that I’d been tricked and lied to by the Church Elders, it caused me to almost quit going to Church because my love trust in them has been sadly damaged.
This foolishness of demanding the tithe or God will curse you is a demonic doctrine that has eradicated the Lords goodness in freely giving Jesus to us and all other things. We understand the Church needs money to pay the bills but do they have to throw us under the bus to do it.
Kevin Mitchell says
Hi;WE as non-tithers should not be surprised by the propaganda of ignorant pastors and or church members.We all were ignorant at some point.Even if pastors & building members try to verbally assault us.We cannot respond in kind.defend,dispute,debate we must but not with malice.We must pray for them who have dispitefully or no used us. Km
John says
I tithe not because of the OT law but knowing that I need to financially support the work of my church. Those of you who are so proud in saying that tithing is not biblical are just parasites in your own churches who found an excuse to keep for yourself the money that is not yours to begin with. You are just a bunch of cheap stingy church mice who wants the benefits of church but will not help pay for it. If you still don’t believe that God will financially bless with tithing, then you really haven’t tried it. Just give and be quite about it. There is nothing wrong with honoring God with the blessings he has given us. There is a lot of wrong in enjoying the ministry of a church and letting a few faithful givers pay for it. Pray for yourselves you stingy, cheap, parasite , free-loaders of the church. Organize a church where you just meet under a tree so you would’nt have to pay for anything.
John says
To the non-tithers, if you tell me you are giving to the church but not as a tithe, I would say…. yeah, right! Keep your $1 bill to yourself. You are an insult to your church, especially if you have been attending your church for years.
Jared Brian says
John,
I am sure you are right that many people are proud and greedy with their anti-tithing stance, but let me remind you that greed is not biased to those who practice spirit-led giving. It was Israel who fell to the cloak of greed while under the tithing law. It was also the pharisees who fell to pride with their tithing obedience.
Kevin Mitchell says
To John; The spirit of your rant is your flesh talking.You have no concrete evidence whatever to support tithing.Instead you insult God’s people with your vitriol.The tone of your pathetic diatribe is laced with anger,bitterness and pride.You think God hears your prayers with that junk in your heart? I challenge you. Go get some real proof about the merits of tithing.IF YOU CAN!And spare us the propaganda speech… we have heard it before.
anonymous says
To John:
You have just stereotyped non-tithers as stingy and you don’t know how much any of us voluntarily give. If you Enjoy and agree with people being verbally abused, taught that they have to pay God for a healing, protection & blessings when you know this is clearly not in the New Testament as a requirement and you agree with people being taught to pay God out of fear, intimidation and bully tactics such as told they are going to be cursed with an Old Testament curse when Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law then you are one brainwashed sick puppy! We are not against tithing just lying to enforce it!
too true for Him says
John:
I pity you because you have not learned what Jesus meant by His words, “Paid in Full and It Is Finished” You are still trying to pay God to gain favor by your own works. God said any righteousness (outside of His Son) is like filthy rags–means it falls way short.
Just curious, how many of the other six hundred and twelve Laws of Moses have you kept??? Tithing is only one, you have 612 more to go. I can tell by your posting that you broke at lease one of the greatest commandments declared by Jesus. He said all the Laws and what the Prophets taught could be summed up in this one command: “Love God with all your heart, mind and soul then the second is to love others as you love yourself”.
Having said that my question to you is how can you support the Lords Sheep being manipulated and verbally assaulted at offering with the declaration of a Curse on them esp. since so many people are out of work and may not be able to pay tithes. Also Galatians 3:13 plainly states that Christ has redeemed us from curses (of the law), like the tithe law.
Since you love the love I presume you would want to not steal away the glory that He alone deserves because of His finished work by replacing it with your own works of tithing. Have you read Romans 3:32-33 that since God did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, then He with Him will freely give us all things! Freely give is what you need to read and reread. Take precaution against following along with everything blindly without studying your Bible first. Remember Jim Jones?
Learn what era Jesus ushered us into it, is called “The Dispensation of Grace” There is a no Biblical doctrine that supports Gentiles tithing after the Cross Our favor is included in Salvation.The very definition of Grace is unearned favor Grace. The Abraham paid tithes distortion is also erroneous that was a one time tenth and not because God demanded it for a Covenant.
God initiated a personal relationship with Abraham for no other reason that Gods own good pleasure. Abraham was a pagan in a pagan land before God gave him grace/favor.
If you continue on reading in Hebrews it goes on to say that now because of what Jesus did for us we have a new and better (way) Covenant than the Old one as in tithing and law keeping for a Covenant.
Are you in some type of role in your Church where you are your family is sustained by the Tithe lie? If so I pray God will continue to sustain you abundantly but by teaching how to give according to the New Covenant of grace which is free and voluntary not by being taught the OT doctrine of works. What make you think people are blood suckers in the Church many people have left organized religion altogether because of abuses like lying to enforce tithing when they know we are now under the New Covenant of FREE FAVOR AND GRACE.
Maria T says
Too True for Him:
I just saw a Video by the Founder of “Stand to Reason” a Christian organization. They have held public debates with renowned Atheist such as Christopher Hitchenson who wrote the book “God is not Great” & other Atheist. Stand to Reason always won these debates hands down. There Ministry in defending the faith and Bible truth is great and like Russell E. Kelly they explain biblical truth in depth. “Stand to Reason” has a Video on their website on tithing, so the true facts are out there and in the Bible, if people really want to know. Don’t waste time with mindsets that want to hang on to unsound doctrine. The Pro-tithers will do and say anything to keep their precious tithe lie going.
It makes them feel superior and gives them plenty of reason to take credit and boast in their own works when they get some kind of blessing. Let them keep thinking that they paid God for something and have to pay him for his free gifts–I just don’t believe God will continue to allow this false thinking to profit them much in the long run.
Obedient says
I have been amazed reading the comments on this subject. I don’t proclaim to be a bible scholar, but completely understand what is written. I also understand the diversity of thoughts and ideas on this subject. If we all felt the same, and believed the same, then we would not have any religious denominations — true? Here is what I do know. At the foot of the cross the ground is level. If you believe that Jesus is the son of God and died for your sins and you have asked him into your heart, then you will have eternal life. Simple and absolute. In terms of tithing, freewill giving — and going beyond the “tenth” with offerings. Those of you who have not tried this, I challenge you. Not to expect a “return on investment” they way you would expect it, but allow God to work in your life in many ways. The return can take on many forms — financial, healing in a marriage, physical healing, restoration with children, etc. I have never given with an expectation of getting. God looks on the heart — don’t ever forget that. I am a President and CEO of a company. We have a need for revenue to operate. Without the support of consumers or other business buying our products and services, we don’t survive. Let’s be honest — the Church requires structure and revenue to operate. The benefits we receive as church attenders require operating capital. The programs in the church designed to reach the lost require funding. The staff is deserving of their salaries in order to fulfill what God has called them to do — all of this not unlike the business world. It’s just a fact. That said, giving is required by members, frequent attenders and guests to keep the Church moving forward. I know for a fact that 20% of the people in the church pay for 80% of the budget. That is sad to me. Two reasons — those who do not participate are missing out on God’s blessings (be it whatever form it takes on), and just think what could happen with the furthering of God’s work if everyone was faithful with their giving (whatever label you wish to give it). I would much rather see the Church have an incredible over-abundance of riches to further God’s kingdom that any secular charity — where only a portion of the dollar can be accounted for. I believe these are the last days, and the wealth of the wicked WILL be laid up for the righteous. It is time to step up and stop the arguing about the laws (OT and NT). This is about a personal conviction and a relationship with God. Obedience is a very powerful action. Just as parents smile when a son or daughter obeys them and/or complies. How much more do you think God will smile and bless his people if they will just listen to him. I am a giver, a tither — I believe in it, I have tested it, I have benefitted from it, and I will never stop. This is a personal decision I have made and can testify without hesitation about my experiences. I pray that all of you ask God to guide and direct you.
Jared Brian says
John, no one said to stop giving
John - again says
To those of you who were “hurt” by what I said, I am not apologizing to any of you. I still believe you are greedy. To “too true for Him”, did I say I am asking for favor or wanting to gain something by tithing? “Paid Full and it is finished” has nothing to do with supporting your church financially. It all about your salvation, not your church finances. He paid full for your sins, not for your church operations. Again, I am not giving tithe because of the LAW, I am not giving tithe so I can gain more blessings, I am giving tithe to SUPPORT THE FINACIAL NEEDS OF THE CHURCH. Why can’t you see that need? You are blinded by your stinginess. My church does not even preach tithing but that doesn’t mean we keep “our” money in our wallets. I am blessed with “Obedient”. A CEO who knows how to run a business but understands obedience.
When you people talk about the OT, you make it sound like I turn back to the law for my salvation. The law was written so people can see their sins. The law will not save you. The law points to Jesus, the source of salvation. Why are you offended by giving? Are the 10 commandments wrong for Christians to follow? If not, why is tithing offensive to you? Does it hurt you? Are you hurt by your pastors preaching about tithing? Do they tell you you will go to hell by not tithing?
I am not really this harsh, I am just ticked off by people who defends anti-tithing like its a means to salvation. If you don’t want to give, fine. Just look at it this way, you all live in one roof and everyone gives their fair share in the finances. There is one person who makes money but would rather not share in the money matters but he eats the food, takes showers, uses electricity… you get the grip.
Don’t call it tithing if the word kills you, but don’t be stingy.
Jared Brian says
John,
If i wish to use the early New Testament model of sacrificial, spirit-led giving, which many claim is higher than the law; then how can my higher standard be considered greedy?
Kevin Mitchell says
To John; I challenged you to come up with concrete evidence to support tithing. all you have is your opinion.Which is not scriptural.Come on ,tell us the truth.You can’t really be saved and talk like an imbecile.i guess in your case it is possible.Where is your proof?The truth is all you got is MOUTH and the more you use it you convince me that you don’t know what you are talking about.
Kevin Mitchell says
To Obedient; Where is your scriptural evidence to support your view? Do not start to preach on the so-called benefits of tithing or the 20/80 rule.Which is something that you were told and erroneusly believe.WHERE IS YOUR FACTS? You 20% er’s have really drunk the “kool-aid” to believe that God can only use you.What audacity ! What arrogance!Why don’t you all get together and start a website? You could call it “Remnant.com” or “God only uses us.com”or PRIDE.org – Just a suggestion!
Jared Brian says
hey kev,
let’s watch the name calling.
Obedient says
Kevin — I’m not sure what has caused you to be such a bitter person. Let me help you by clarifying a few things I stated. Surely you understand that we walk by faith and not by sight. The Christian walk is one of faith. It is a “belief” in a higher being that keeps me on the path I have chosen for myself. There are so many things in the bible that are subject to interpretation — again, that is why we have so many denominations – so many diverse beliefs. At the end of the day, you have to decide if you have a relationship with God and at minimum understand the plan of salvation. You misunderstand my words. First, I am not preaching to you or anyone. I don’t pretend to have that level of knowledge — and quite honestly, I don’t need it. I do have facts behind the 20/80 rule (I have been behind the scenes of ministry my entire life — my father was a minister for over 50 years). Not sure how you characterize that fact as arrogance. I have not suggested that anyone who gives (tithes or whatever you wish to coin it) is better than the next person. These are personal decisions, personal convictions — decisions that you should pray about and decide to do or not do. Then, you must live with that decision. In terms of giving, I could write a book on the benefits of giving (not just monetarily by the way) — examples of how I have been blessed over time. I don’t give to get. That’s important for you to understand. I give out of thankfulness and obedience to God — for giving me breath every day, for allowing me to have an incredible family, for allowing me to have freedom of worship, for allowing me to benefit from his grace and mercy. I give so that those that don’t know him may have a chance through an outreach to experience him. I don’t give to get “things”, or to plant seed for healing or miracles. If God chooses to make those things happen, it is because of the prayers of many and his divine providence. Please understand something, do you know that God chose disciples that were businessmen to help him get the work done — not priests. I find that fascinating that he wanted to use men that understood business to help him spread his word and do his work. I made a decision in my life to follow a path into business – not in the ministry as my father and his father did. I did so because I was given an opportunity to influence and bless others through the gift of running businesses. I say that to tell you that I feel there is a disconnect between pastors and businessmen in the church — a gap of understanding from both sides on the principles of giving. Pastors who do not have a secular business acumen don’t understand the businessman’s heart completely. Conversely, those in business may not see eye to eye on how funds are managed and used for the glory of God. My view is that there is so much money in the “church” that has not been unlocked for the kingdom of God. That’s what I mean by the 20/80 rule. If those that can and have prayed about it and feel it is right for them to give, our churches would be overflowing with people. Ministries would grow — revival would occur, and as the bible says the wealth of the wicked will be laid up for the righteous. Not talking about individual ministers taking the dollars or TV preachers misusing funds. All of those people will some day have to face their maker just as we will. Hope that helps.
Lastly – I don’t like Kool Aid.
too true for Him says
John
Jesus not only paid for our salvation but He also paid for our healing as in by His stripes we are healed, and all of our needs. He said to ask Him not pay Him for it!!! Give voluntarily but don’t make it a New Testament commandment or you will be cursed when it’s NOT!
Give God the Glory for what you have not your tithing Record!
John says
Kevin,
What will be the point of debating with you and go back and forth with tithing? Will it change your mind or will it just give you more passion to come back and debunk tithing/stewardship? We may go back and forth in arguing whether tithing preceded the law or not. You may point to me that Abraham only tithed stoled goods.
Heb. 7:22 if people paid 10% before the law and then under the law, should we do any less or perhaps better when we live under grace?
Matt 23:23 – Jesus chastised the Pharisees for hypocritical tithing. Notice what He said: “You should have practiced the latter (justice,mercy and faithfulness) without neglecting the former (tithing).”
These are Jesus’ words.
1 Corinthians 9 you will also find a pattern of tithing and also in v. 7 you may say it is the believer’s right to decide for himself how much to give but be reminded the verse is not dealing with tithes but withing giving to the poor.
And lastly Kevin, I know this will not be enough proof for you but one proof I can give you is my testimony in stewardship. Just like you I was a believer who despised tithing. I knew I was a saved, born-again child of God when I took Jesus in my heart as my Lord and Savior. For years I enjoyed the benefits of being a child of God but when it comes to stewardship in giving I was weak. I give according to the “desire of my heart”. I put my needs and wants first before the need in the church. I looked at preachers who teaches tithing as materialistic. I did not doubt my salvation because of my “stewardship” issue but for the longest time I knew I was not giving my all to my God. The longer I procrastinated in “holding on to what I thought was mine”, the longer I felt dissatisfied in my walk. I made more than enough money but it was always not enough. Unexpected costs always come up and there was always a money problem. One time I lost my job and I prayed to find a new one and I did. That did not change my attitude though. I was on the same cycle. I finally realized I was missing something. It was hard in the beginning and now I knew exactly why 10% seemed too small and yet too hard to do. Sometimes we need to get out of our comfort zone when it comes to following the Lord. I teach 2nd graders at church and its not the easiest thing to do. When I commited to this ministry I prayed that I will go on whether I feel like doing it or not. I cannot based my service on how I felt or the circumstances around me. Its all about obedience. My service in different church ministries cannot be a substitute to my lack in financial stewardship.
When I “finally” confronted the issue, first it felt like a sacrifice because it “hurts”. Then I realized it was not a sacrifice, it was obedience. I did not do it to hopefully received blessings (like more money?). That I thought was a childish way to treat it. But the blessings that came after that was undescribable. I did not become richer but I became satisfied and money is always enough for me and my family. We even have enough to support missionaries. We even have enough to go to medical missions in Asia. My kids can’t wait till christmas time to put together christmas boxes for the Samaritan purse. I never thought it would be like this. To those who are reading this and are faithful givers, you probably know what I’m talking about. I know you know this and I now deep in your heart you know there is something “magical” or “mysterious” about it. There is joy in giving. God is challenging us to “Try Him….”
So, I want to challenge the anti-Tithers to give it a try (with a faithful heart though). Look around you and the needs around you and then pray. If you think it is unbiblical, will you sin if you give?
Anywho, I rest my case.
I still think “Obedient’s” post says it all, very articulate but most of all, the faithfulness and obedience shines through. I am truly blessed by your post. You may think i’m obnoxious but I’m not. The unfinished side of me just popped out. I’m sorry “Obedient” if you found my postings a bit rough.
Anyway, God bless you all and when the offering plate passes you this Sunday, think “If Jesus is not Lord of all, He is not Lord at all.”
John says
To Obedient,
I know you have a discerning spirit and I think by now you know through the lingos and postings what is being dealt here. Anyone who calls a believer a “kool-aid drinker” well, I already know that type. So much bitterness.
I just want you to know “Obedient” that I discern your faithfullness. I don’t know who you are but I would like to pray for you and your family to stand firm. I also would like to ask you to pray for me and my family to continously walk in faith.
Obedient says
I would be happy to John and I would appreciate the same.