Tithing
What Is Tithing?
Tithing is an Old Testament concept. The tithe was a requirement of the law in which all Israelites were to give 10 percent of everything they earned and grew to the Tabernacle / Temple. The Christian church has essentially taken the 10 percent figure form the Old Testament tithe and applied it as a "recommended minimum" for Christians in their giving.
What The Bible Says About Tithing
Some understand the Old Testament tithe as a method of taxation to provide for the needs of the priests and Levites of the sacrificial system. The New Testament nowhere commands, or even recommends that Christians submit to a legalistic tithe system. Paul states that believers should set aside a portion of their income in order to support the church (1 Corinthians 16:1-2).
Am I Required To Tithe?
Christians should not feel obligated to always tithe. They should give as they are able, "in keeping with their income." Sometimes that means giving more than a tithe and sometimes that may mean giving less than a tithe. It all depends on the ability of the Christian and the needs of the church. Each and every Christian should diligently pray and seek God's wisdom as to whether to participate in tithing and/or how much he or she should give (James 1:5).
*Courtesy of Got Questions Ministries