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TITHING UNDER THE NEW COVENANT
Many Believers have it in their mind that tithing originated with the Law. And inasmuch as the Law of Moses has been fulfilled in Christ, then tithing is no more incumbent upon modern Believers. In the first place, tithing did not begin with the Law, but possibly existed at the very beginning of time. However, it was spelled very out clearly under Abraham.
Under the Law, the care for the Priests, and the upkeep of the Temple were done so by Tithe. Presently, under the New Covenant, the Priesthood is no more, has been replaced by the Ministry (Eph. 4:11). Our task now as well is not the Temple, for there is no Temple as such under the New Covenant, but rather, the taking of the Gospel to the world. Jesus said:
“Go ye therefore (applies to any and all who follow Christ, and in all ages), and teach all nations (should have been translated, “and preach to all nations”, for the word “teach” here refers to a proclamation of truth), baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit (presents the only formula for Water Baptism given in the Word of God):
“Teaching them (means to give instruction) to observe all things (the whole Gospel for the whole man) whatsoever I have commanded you (not a suggestion): and, lo, I am with you always (It is I, Myself, God, and Man, Who am — not “will be” — hence, forever present among you, and with you as Companion, Friend, Guide, Savior, God), even unto the end of the world (should have been translated “age”). Amen (it is the guarantee of My Promise)” (Mat. 28:19-20).
Of course, under the New Covenant our salvation is not in anyway based upon our good works or our obedience to the Ten Commandments. However, does that mean we can just discard them as something we do not have to follow in the New Covenant? Of course Not! Well, tithing is no different. While tithing is in no way connected to our salvation, it is still a valid command for New Testament believers, and it will still provide a blessing.
The Preceeding answer was condensed and paraphrased from a book by Jimmy Swaggart entitled, "Straight Answers to Tough Questions."
