STUFF ABOUT GOD AND CHRISTIANITY | Dr. Ron Braley
Recently, I discussed the Old Covenant Law, noting that Christians aren’t required to follow its religious or civil rules. Most Christian leaders agree, yet they often push congregants to tithe. However, there is no obligation to do so.
Yes, God desires giving — but for charity, not for church expenses under the pretense of an Old Covenant tithe.
The tithe, meaning “a one-tenth part,” was part of the ancient pagan suzerain-vassal (king-servant) covenant system that God adopted to establish his salvationfocused relationship with people, starting with Abram.
However, as far as we know, God did not command a tithe until he renewed the covenant through Moses. Then God instructed the 11 tribes who received land to tithe to support the priests, their families and the temple. Eventually, they disobeyed, which led to starvation and disrepair, prompting a sharp rebuke (Malachi 3:6-15).
Today, there are no physical temples or priests: we are the spiritual temple and a priesthood of believers (1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Peter 2:5), and therefore, do not need a tithe.
So, there was no New Covenant tithe until the Roman Emperor Constantine instituted it again in the fourth century to fund religious leaders and buildings.
Previously, money was collected only for charity. For example, Paul sought funds from regional churches to support the beleaguered saints in Jerusalem.
In addition, Tertullian wrote: “Though we have our treasure chest, it is not made up of purchase money, as of a religion that has its price. On the monthly day, if he likes, each puts in a small donation; but only if it be his pleasure, and only if he be able: for there is no compulsion; all is voluntary. These gifts are . . . to support and bury poor people …” Today?
Many church leaders misuse Scripture to create guilt or excite congregants into tithing for things God never asked for, ignoring charity and discipleship — things that God and Christ commanded. Beyond misinterpreting Malachi 3:6-15, Luke 6:38 is often distorted to promote a tithing pyramid scheme, where giving more money supposedly leads to receiving more.
Read it along with verses 1-37, and you’ll see the context is about judging and the exchange of justice and mercy, not tithing.
Still, little return is seen from today’s tithes.
Fewer than 20% of church members engage in spiritual disciplines.
Typically, less than 1% of church budgets go to missions, and there’s usually nothing allocated for charity or discipleship— the core things we’re called to do.
The solution?
Leaders: Don’t misuse the Scriptures. Be open about church business needs and teach your people to prioritize charity — starting at home, within the Body and finally to others. I could write much more about solving this issue, but I’ve run out of space. Maybe in a future article… In summary, there’s no New Covenant tithe, but loving others is essential. Next, we’ll revisit “Christmas, the Retold Story.”
Blessings and peace.
Braley, a Taylorbased minister, Air Force veteran, husband and father, earned a Master of Divinity degree from Regent University in 2018 and a Doctor of Ministry from the same school in 2021.
