Should Christians still tithe?

Let’s Talk About Tithing

Should Christians still tithe?

It’s a fair question—and one that deserves a real answer, not just “because that’s what churches do.” The truth is, the Bible’s teaching on tithing is deeper and more freeing than most people realize.

Let’s start here: No, Christians are not under the Mosaic Law. Paul makes that clear in Romans 6 and Galatians 3. We are saved by grace, not by following rules. The tithe was a part of Israel’s law—essentially their national tax system—to support the Levites, the temple, and community care. That system is fulfilled in Christ.

But does that mean giving 10% is irrelevant today? Not even close.

Before the Law was ever given, Abraham gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek as an act of worship (Genesis 14:20). Jacob promised to give God a tenth of all he received (Genesis 28:22). These weren’t acts of legal obedience; they were acts of faith and gratitude. The tithe predates the law and flows from a heart that recognizes God as the source of all things.

When Jesus confronted the Pharisees in Matthew 23:23, He didn’t tell them to stop tithing—He told them not to neglect justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He affirmed tithing while reminding them that God cares far more about the heart behind the gift.

Then in the New Testament church, we see a shift. Paul never commands a tithe. Instead, he describes giving that is generous, cheerful, regular, and proportional (1 Corinthians 16:2, 2 Corinthians 9:7). Some believers sold land and gave everything (Acts 4:32–37). Their giving was Spirit-led, not rule-bound.

So here’s where that leaves us: tithing is not a rule we follow—it’s a principle we embrace. It’s a great starting point for Christian generosity. If Abraham gave 10% by faith before the law, and we now live under the far greater grace of the cross, wouldn’t it make sense to give with even more joy and freedom?

This isn’t about guilt. It’s about worship. It’s about recognizing that everything we have comes from God and that giving is one way we reflect His generosity to the world.

You’re free from the law—but you’re not free from love. And love gives.

So if you’ve been wrestling with the idea of tithing, I’d encourage you: don’t give out of pressure. Give out of gratitude. Start with a tithe if that helps. Let it be a training ground for your heart. But don’t stop there—ask God what generosity looks like for you in this season, and trust Him with the rest.

Because when God’s people live with open hands, the world gets to see what grace really looks like.