The Theology of Giving in the New Testament

February 10, 2019 Speaker: Michael Knight Series: Current Sermon

Topic: Biblical Giving Passage: 1 Corinthians 16:1–2, 2 Corinthians 9:6–7

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If the Old Testament teaches tithing, what does the New Testament teach regarding biblical giving? How much should a believer give in order to be obedient?

Principles of Giving in the Old Testament (OT):

1. God’s people gave a voluntary tithe in the OT. (Genesis 14:22; 28:22)

2. God expected His people to tithe. (Malachi 3:8-12)

3. God’s people gave their first fruits to the Lord. (Numbers 18:12)

4. God’s people gave willingly, generously, and sacrificially. (Exodus 35:4-5, 21-22; 36:6-7)

5. God promised to bless the generous and withhold blessing from the stingy. (Proverbs 3:9-10; 11:24-26)

What does God have to say about giving in the New Testament (NT)?

Theology of Giving in the NT:

There are two philosophies of giving.

1. Tithe Giving

It is giving based on a required percent.
God expects us to tithe 10% willingly.

2. Grace Giving

Since we live in the age of grace, tithing is no longer for today.
NT giving does not focus on the amount given but on the attitude of the giver.
Giving is not about percent, but about following clear principles of giving.

There are seven principles of giving.

1. Give obediently. (1 Corinthians 16:1-2)

2. Give regularly. (1 Corinthians 16:2)

3. Give proportionately. (1 Corinthians 16:2; Acts 11:29)

4. Give generously. (2 Corinthians 9:6)

5. Give purposefully. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

6. Give willingly. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

7. Give cheerfully. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

An obedient grace-giver will give ten percent or more to God. The tithe is just the beginning of giving. The most important part of giving is heart attitude.

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