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Do modern Evangelical (by which I mean, taking the Bible as the ultimate earthly source of authority) Christians believe giving 10% of your income is a law for Christians?

Note: this question is related to Was tithing 10% required or encouraged by the early church? After asking that question, a moderator said it was too broad and made it specifically about the early church (which I agreed with). This question is intended to be a more specific version of what I really want to ask. See that question for more details.

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which tradition of "modern evangelical"? This is still extremely broad – warren Oct 26 '11 at 18:10
@warren: this is a problem I have right now which I will take to meta. What about those that don't adhere to a specific denomination and just want a Biblical answer? – Wikis Oct 26 '11 at 18:18
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If you're looking for an overview of the different doctrines of tithing, ask for that: "What are the different doctrines regarding tithing and what do they use for biblical support?" – Richard Oct 26 '11 at 18:38
@Richard: thanks, I'm really not looking for that, though. I'm not really interested in what the (for example) JW belief on tithing is. I really do want this question answered. So, if it is permitted, I will leave it unchanged. – Wikis Oct 26 '11 at 19:05
@Wikis: I think the question can stand, but you need to know it's an overview question and the only way to give a decent answer is to describe the various views on tithing. There are a vast array of views that fall under the banner you just created. "Evangelical" isn't a heading to which you can ascribe a single interpretation of the Bible on tithing and neither "modern" nor "those who believe the Bible is the ultimate authority" do much to narrow the field. – Caleb Oct 26 '11 at 22:31

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up vote 9 down vote accepted

This is at least one modern evangelical view...

It is true that the New Testament really does not prescribe tithing, that is, giving 10% of your income. It does, however, prescribe giving:

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

The church at Phillip specifically financially supported the ministry of Paul:

Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. Philippians 4:16

Another aspect is to consider that, as believers, we understand that everything we have comes from God, so we must honor God with 100% of our income, time, talents, and possessions--not just 10% of our income.

So, since there is a prescription to give, but not specific amount prescribed, it is common to use the tithe (10%) as a great pattern to follow.

So, in most biblically oriented circles that I've been involved with, the tithe is a great benchmark. That means we are free to give whatever amount and should cheerfully give generously to the work of Christ all over the world. Generosity may mean 5% for some, but others may be able to comfortably give 15%-20%.

Indeed, for people with very high income levels, 10% could be considered hardly generous. The point is to be as generous as we can and to enjoy the pleasure of giving. My personal hope is to continue increasing my percentage as my income grows.

It really is more blessed to give than to receive, and this is true in many different ways.

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How about Hebrews 7:8? – Ralph M. Rickenbach Oct 26 '11 at 20:43
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That is a New Testament reference to an Old Testament account of Melchizedek. That still gives no prescription for New Testament Christians. The tithe was an Old Testament law. – Narnian Oct 26 '11 at 20:46

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