To Tithe or Not? – Rethinking the 10% Question

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Tithing is one of the most debated practices among African Christians—whether in Ghana, Nigeria, or across diaspora communities in Canada and beyond. For many, giving 10% of one’s income to the church feels sacred. For others, it feels outdated, legalistic, or even manipulative. So what does the Bible really say?

First, let’s be honest. In many African churches, tithing has become a litmus test for faithfulness. Pastors preach Malachi 3:10 (“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse…”) with passion, and believers often give out of fear of being “cursed with a curse” if they don’t. But is this biblical mandate still binding on Christians today?

To answer that, we must look at context. The Old Testament tithe was part of Israel’s covenant law. God instructed the Israelites to give 10% of their crops and livestock to support the Levites—who had no land of their own—and to provide for the poor, widows, and orphans (see Leviticus 27:30–33; Deuteronomy 14:22–29). However, the New Testament never commands Christians to tithe.

Instead, Paul urges believers to give generously, joyfully, and according to their ability (2 Corinthians 9:6–8). Jesus commends sacrificial giving (Mark 12:41–44), not just strict percentages. In other words, the heart matters more than the number.

So should we tithe? Maybe. If giving 10% helps you stay disciplined, live generously, and support the work of the local church, then keep at it. But don’t treat it like a divine tax. Don’t judge others who give differently. And don’t assume that more giving always equals more blessing.

So Where Should You Begin?

If you’re wrestling with how to give faithfully, here are a few biblical steps to guide you:

  1. Check Your Heart First. Ask yourself: “Am I giving out of fear, guilt, or love?” God delights in cheerful givers, not pressured ones.

  2. Give Proportionally. If 10% is manageable, great. If not, start with what you can. God sees faithfulness in small things (Luke 16:10).

  3. Prioritize People Over Programs. Yes, churches need resources—but so do widows, single mothers, students, and refugees. Giving isn’t just vertical (to the church); it’s horizontal (to others).

  4. Practice Consistent Generosity. Don’t wait for emotional appeals. Build giving into your life rhythm—weekly, monthly, whatever works for you.

Ultimately, God owns everything, not just 10%. Giving isn’t about obligation; it’s about transformation. When we give freely, we reflect the heart of the One who gave us everything.

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