Tithing in the New Testament Age After the Cross

The practice of tithing remains a vital part of the Christian life in the New Testament era, as the system was never repealed or relaxed by its divine AuthorCCh 275.2+1. While the typical sacrifices and ceremonial ordinances were nailed to the cross at the death of Christ, the moral principles and the method for sustaining God's work continue to be binding for believers today Colossians 2:14T24 89.2+1.

The Purpose and Continuity of the Tithe

• A Perpetual System: Tithing is not merely a Levitical ordinance; it existed long before the law was given at Sinai, as evidenced by Abraham paying tithes to Melchizedek, whose priesthood is the Christian priesthood Hebrews 7:9EVCO 62.2.

• Divine Ownership: The tithe belongs to the Lord, and human powers have no authority to require or collect it; it is a matter between the individual and God Leviticus 27:30EVCO 62.2.

• Supporting the Gospel: In the Christian age, the tithe is reserved specifically to sustain the ministers who are appointed to speak the words of life and carry the burden of the flockEchoes June 21, 1905, par. 1+1.

• Increased Responsibility: Rather than being abolished, the law of giving is a more urgent necessity now because the gospel is extending and widening, requiring greater provisions than under the Hebrew governmentT24 89.2.

Offerings and the Spirit of Giving

• Proportional to Blessing: The principle established by Christ is that our gifts and offerings should be in proportion to the light and blessings we enjoy Luke 12:48T24 89.2.

• Beyond the Tithe: While the tithe is a required tenth, faithful stewards will also bring freewill offerings to express their appreciation for the gift of God’s SonSW October 1, 1907, par. 3+1.

• The Motive Matters: God takes cognizance of the willingness of the giver and the motive behind the gift, rewarding those who sacrifice in sincerity of soulCSW 146.3.

• A Living Connection: True sacrifice is a response of faith; by returning to God what is His, believers acknowledge Him as the giver of every good thing Hebrews 11:4HOMI December 1894, page 29.4+1.

Guidance for the Church

The Lord requires faithfulness in the treasury so that His laborers are encouraged to take up ministerial work7MR 137.4. Church leaders have a responsibility to see that a faithful tithe is brought into the treasury to support the work of the gospelPH166 18.3. Following Christ produces a character of self-denial, where believers feel that even the richest offering is meager compared to the cross of CalvarySpTB15 20.4+1. As we contemplate the sacrifice of Jesus, we are moved to return to Him a faithful tithe and offerings, saying, "Of thine own we freely give thee" 1 Chronicles 29:14RH November 26, 1901, par. 5.