Nigeria is a country where faith and survival often collide. Every Sunday, churches across the nation echo with sermons about tithing. Pastors encourage members to give ten percent of their income to God. Yet in the same country, millions of people struggle to feed their families, pay rent, or keep a business alive.
This raises a question many believers whisper in their hearts but fear to ask out loud: Should Nigerian Christians pay tithes in today’s economy?
I have met young professionals who earn just enough to cover transport and food. They want to honor God but wonder if tithing is still required. I have also spoken with widows and traders who feel guilty when they cannot give ten percent. These struggles are real.
The Bible invites us to wrestle with such questions. God cares about your heart more than your percentage. He sees your struggles, your sacrifices, and your desire to honor Him even in tough times.
In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about tithing, how Jesus spoke about giving, and how Christians in Nigeria can approach this practice today. You will find hope, clarity, and practical wisdom to guide your walk with God in financial matters.
Are Christians Required To Tithe Today?
Tithing began in the Old Testament. Israel gave a tenth of their crops and livestock to support the Levites and temple work. It was a law given to the people of God under the old covenant.
But when Jesus came, He fulfilled the law and brought us into grace. In the New Testament, there is no clear command that Christians must tithe. Instead, believers are encouraged to give freely, generously, and with joy.
Second Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This means Christians are not required to tithe as a law. However, many still choose to give ten percent as a spiritual discipline and as a way to stay consistent. It can help you set aside money for God and remind you that all blessings come from Him.
So, while you are not required to tithe today, you are invited to live a life of generosity.
Is Tithing Still Applicable Today?
Although it is not a law for Christians, tithing can still be applied as a principle. Think of it as a guideline rather than a command.
In Nigeria’s current economy, this question is pressing. When the cost of rice doubles and salaries remain the same, how do you apply tithing? Some people give up completely, while others continue out of fear.
Here is the truth: God is not watching with a whip in His hand. He is looking at your heart. If you can give ten percent joyfully, do so. If your financial state does not allow it, give what you can in love.
A testimony I once heard was from a man who started by giving two percent because that was all he could afford without starving his family. As his business grew, he increased it to ten percent and beyond. The discipline built his faith and his finances.
So, tithing is still applicable, but in the context of grace, not legalism.
Is 2 Corinthians 9:7 About Tithing?
This verse is often quoted when pastors talk about giving. It says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give.” Notice it does not mention ten percent.
The message is simple: give willingly, not under pressure. God cares more about the heart behind the gift than the size of the gift.
This scripture sets a new tone for giving in the New Testament. Instead of a strict formula, it introduces freedom. Instead of a fixed law, it invites us to follow the Spirit.
So while 2 Corinthians 9:7 is not about tithing directly, it shapes how we think about giving. In a Nigerian context, where economic stress is real, this passage gives peace. You are not condemned if you cannot give ten percent. God values cheerful giving more than forced giving.
Did Jesus Cancel Tithing?
In Matthew 23:23, Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for focusing on tithes while ignoring justice, mercy, and faithfulness. At that time, the law was still in place, so He did not outright cancel it.
But when Jesus died and rose again, He fulfilled the law. Romans 10:4 says, “Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.”
That means tithing as a law was no longer binding. What replaced it? Grace and Spirit led giving.
Imagine a student who once followed a strict timetable but later matured into managing their own time wisely. The timetable was useful, but it was not the goal. In the same way, tithing served its purpose but was never the ultimate standard.
So yes, Jesus fulfilled and replaced the system of tithing with something greater: a life of generosity led by love.
Does Tithing Apply To All Income?
Back in the Old Testament, tithes applied to crops, livestock, and increase from land. Today income is more diverse: salary, business profits, rental income, investments, even gifts.
Some churches teach that you must tithe on every type of income. But under grace, the question is not “must I tithe on all income?” but rather “how can I honor God with what I have?”
If you earn from your job, you may decide to set aside a portion for giving. If you receive a gift, you may share some with the needy. If you profit from a business, you may support your church or missions.
It is not about calculating every percentage but about living with a generous spirit.
Is Tithing Required Under The New Covenant?
The short answer is no. The new covenant is about faith in Christ, not keeping old laws. Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.”
Under the new covenant, giving is voluntary and Spirit led. For some, this means giving ten percent. For others, it may mean more. Some may give less during hard seasons but still honor God with their heart.
I remember a woman in my church who could not give ten percent during a season of job loss. She gave what little she could and prayed for provision. Later, when she found a new job, she joyfully gave more than ten percent out of gratitude.
This is the beauty of new covenant giving. It is not measured by law but by love.
Can I Give My Tithe To The Poor Instead Of Church?
This is a very Nigerian question. Many believers worry about how churches use money. They wonder if giving directly to the poor is a better use of their funds.
The Bible teaches us to support the church and also care for the poor. Acts 2:44-45 shows the early church sharing with one another. James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.”
So can you give to the poor instead of the church? You can do both. Supporting your church helps spread the gospel and keep ministry alive. Helping the poor shows God’s love in action. The key is not either-or but both-and, guided by prayer.
Will God Punish You For Not Paying Tithes?
This is one of the greatest fears in the Nigerian church. Many believe if they fail to tithe, they will be cursed or punished. This idea often comes from Malachi 3:8-10.
But remember, that passage was under the old covenant. For Christians today, Galatians 3:13 says, “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.”
God does not punish His children with curses. He disciplines in love, but never to destroy. If you do not tithe, you are not under wrath. However, you may miss out on the joy of giving and the blessings that flow from generosity.
Giving is not about avoiding punishment. It is about loving God and others with what He has entrusted to you.
Conclusion
So, should Nigerian Christians pay tithes in today’s economy? The answer is that you are not bound by law, but you are invited to give with love.
Tithing can be a helpful discipline, but it is not a rule. God values your heart more than your calculation. Whether you give ten percent, less, or more, let it flow from gratitude and joy.
Nigeria’s economy may be harsh, but God is still faithful. When you give, you plant seeds of trust in Him. When you cannot give much, do not carry guilt. God sees your struggles and honors your heart.
The goal is not to tick a box but to live generously. Support your church, help the poor, and trust God with your finances. He is your true provider.
FAQs
1. Is tithing compulsory for Nigerian Christians?
No. Tithing is not a law under the new covenant. Giving should be voluntary and cheerful.
2. Can I give to the poor instead of paying tithe to church?
Yes. Christians can support both the church and the poor as God leads.
3. Will God curse me if I do not pay tithe?
No. In Christ, you are free from curses. God values love and generosity, not fear.
4. Does tithing apply to salary only?
No. You may choose to give from any income, but it is not a law.
5. Is ten percent the only way to give?
No. Ten percent is a guide. Christians can give more or less, led by the Spirit.
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