Does Mandatory Tithing Conflict With New Testament Grace?

I believe mandatory 10% tithing, when presented as a condition for God’s favour or protection from a curse, conflicts with the New Testament teaching on grace. Galatians warns against seeking justification through selected parts of the Mosaic Law, which it presents as an all-or-nothing covenant. In this view, using Malachi’s warning to compel Christians to pay a tithe wrongly places believers under legal obligation. Modern church tithing also differs from the Old Testament model, I argue. Biblical tithes were primarily agricultural and linked to the Levites, temple worship, festivals and care for vulnerable people. The combined requirements could exceed 10%, making today’s flat cash tithe a practice that does not fully reflect the original Mosaic system. Christians are still called to give, but New Testament giving should be voluntary, generous and proportionate to each person’s ability. Scriptures such as 2 Corinthians 9:7 and 1 Corinthians 16:2 emphasise cheerful, purposeful giving rather than fear, guilt or a compulsory percentage. Should churches continue to teach tithing as a binding rule, or focus solely on grace-led giving?

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