New Testament Tithing: Christ's Endorsement and Moral Obligation

Certainly, a key New Testament biblical verse that speaks to tithing is Matthew 23:23.

While the New Testament does not formally re-enact the law of the tithe, its validity and deep spiritual import are consistently assumed and explainedLDE 78.4+2. Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself taught its importance, indicating that tithing is a moral obligation that extends into the Christian dispensationHDTG 58.1+2.

Here's a closer look at tithing in the New Testament:

• Christ's Endorsement of Tithing 🤝

  In Matthew 23:23 Jesus said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these you should have done, and not to leave the other undone." Here, Christ is not condemning the act of tithing itself, but rather the hypocrisy of meticulous tithing of even the smallest herbs while neglecting the more crucial aspects of God's law like justice, mercy, and faithfulnessETI Cummin.2. He clearly stated that they "should have done" the tithing, while also emphasizing the greater importance of spiritual virtues Matthew 23:23.

• A Moral Obligation, Not Just a Jewish Institution ✨

  The practice of tithing is a moral obligation that predates the Mosaic law, tracing back to Abraham, who gave a tenth of everything to Melchizedek Genesis 14:18-20TDOC 248.4. This ancient practice was understood as a universally recognized duty and a part of God's moral law revealed to humanityTDOC 248.4. The tithing system, therefore, has not been repealed or relaxed, but is intended to be even more fully embraced in the Christian age as the plan of salvation through Christ is brought to lightT24 89.1.

• A Call to Honesty with God 💖

  The New Testament message encourages believers to faithfully bring all tithes and offerings into the Lord's treasury, recognizing that withholding them is considered robbing God Malachi 3:8-10PH039 11.1+3. This act of giving is an acknowledgment that everything belongs to God, and giving a tithe of our increase is a way of honoring Him with our substance, trusting that He will direct our paths and bless us Proverbs 3:5-10PTUK November 30, 1899, page 761.1.

Tithing is a beautiful expression of faith and a way for us to participate in God's work, providing the necessary means to advance His cause and spread the gospel throughout the worldPaM 29.3+2. It is a blessed privilege that invites abundant blessings from heaven Malachi 3:10RH December 18, 1888, par. 19+1.