Malachi 3:8-10 Is Not a Proof-Text for Mandatory Tithing

I want to state at the outset that the exegesis of Malachi 3:8-10 is not a polemic against tithing or giving but rather to place giving within its Biblical context and address the abuse of certain Scriptures by ministers to instill fear in their congregations. By placing giving within its broader biblical context, we aim to prevent the abuse of scriptures and encourage a healthy understanding of giving that promotes a spirit of generosity and genuine support for the church and its mission.

The use of Malachi 3:8-10 as a mandate for Christians to pay tithes is a common practice in some Christian circles. However, there is a need for theological and exegetical scrutiny of this scripture and its practices. This article aims to critically analyze the use of Malachi 3:8-10 as a mandate for Christians to pay tithes. It will begin by giving a background of the text and its context, followed by an exegetical analysis of the text. It will then explore the theological implications of the text and conclude by affirming that Malachi is an Old Testament mandate that does not apply in the New Testament.

Malachi 3:8-10 are cited in a discussion about tithing and financial contribution to the church. However, when we read the scripture within its context of the Mosaic Covenant and in light of the New Covenant established by Christ, we can conclude that it is not a direct mandate for the New Testament Christian.

When interpreting any biblical passage, it is essential to consider its context, including the historical, cultural, and literary context. The Post-Exilic Period Malachi's prophecy was delivered when the Israelites had returned from Babylonian captivity and were rebuilding the temple and Jerusalem. The historical context is significant because it helps us understand the specific issues that the community faced at that time. The people were struggling with spiritual apathy, neglecting the temple, and failing to fulfill their obligations under the Old Covenant. Malachi's message was to challenge and correct these shortcomings.

Applying this context to Christians today, therefore, raises several issues. First, the specific situation of the post-exilic community differs significantly from the New Testament church. The temple rebuilding and the Levites' support were specific obligations for the Israelites under the Old Covenant, tied to their national and religious identity. On the other hand, Christians are part of the New Covenant community that transcends national and ethnic boundaries. Therefore, the historical context of Malachi's prophecy does not directly apply to Christians today.

It is essential to consider the covenantal transition in this discussion. The Old Covenant vs. New Covenant is a crucial factor in understanding the context of Malachi 3:8-10. The Old Covenant, with its specific laws, rituals, and obligations, including tithing, was established with the nation of Israel at Mount Sinai. The New Covenant, initiated by Jesus Christ, brought about a new relationship between God and humanity.

Under the Old Covenant, the Israelites were to tithe as part of their legal and religious obligations. However, the New Testament shifts the emphasis from legalistic adherence to a heart-focused, grace-centered relationship with God. Jesus challenged the legalistic practices of the Pharisees and emphasized matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness over mere adherence to external rituals (Matthew 23:23).

The mandate for tithing in the Old Testament, particularly in Malachi 3:8-10, should be differentiated from the New Testament teachings on giving within the context of this passage. While Malachi 3:8-10 addresses the Israelites' obligation to bring a tithe to support the Levites and the temple, the New Testament presents a unique perspective on giving and financial stewardship. In the New Testament, Jesus inaugurates a new covenant through His death and resurrection (Luke 22:20). The New Covenant, as described in Hebrews 8:6-13, supersedes the Old Covenant and changes how God relates to His people. The Old Covenant, with its specific regulations and rituals, including tithing, is not binding on Christians under the New Covenant.

Understanding Malachi 3:8-10 within the context of Deuteronomy 28 and Galatians 3:13 is crucial for a comprehensive analysis of the passage and its implications. On the one hand, Deuteronomy 28 is a significant chapter in the Old Testament that outlines the blessings and curses associated with Israel's covenantal relationship with God.

On the other hand, Galatians 3:13 provides a broader theological perspective on the curse of the Law mentioned in Deuteronomy 28 and illustrated in the specific context of Malachi 3:8-10. So while Deuteronomy 28 and Malachi 3:8-10 deal with the specific blessings and curses under the Mosaic Law, Galatians 3:13 points to the ultimate solution to the problem of the curse—the redemptive work of Christ. It declares that believers, through faith in Christ, are freed from the overall curse and its eternal effects.

The Context of Deuteronomy 28 is part of Moses' last address to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. It presents a detailed exposition of the blessings accompanying Israel's obedience to God's commands and the curses resulting from their disobedience. This chapter serves as a covenantal reminder, emphasizing the importance of wholehearted commitment to God's covenant and the consequences of straying from it.

In the New Testament, we see the fulfillment and supersession of the Mosaic covenant through the coming of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself declared that He came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). The apostle Paul further expounds on the fulfillment and supersession of the Mosaic covenant, highlighting that Christ's sacrifice and the establishment of the New Covenant rendered the old covenant obsolete (Hebrews 8:13).

The curse of the Law in the Mosaic covenant refers to the penalties and consequences for failing to meet the requirements of the Law. However, through His sacrificial death, Jesus Christ became a curse for us and redeemed believers from the curse of the Law. This redemption is by faith and offers forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration of our relationship with God. Jesus fulfilled the Law on our behalf, providing a way to be justified and freed from the curse, leading to salvation and eternal life.

In conclusion, when examining Malachi 3:8 within the context of the Mosaic Covenant and the New Covenant, it becomes evident that it is not a direct mandate for New Testament Christians. While the principles of stewardship and generosity remain relevant, the specific command to tithe as prescribed in the Mosaic Law does not carry the same binding authority in the New Covenant. Christians are encouraged to give willingly, generously, and with a joyful heart, following the teachings of Jesus and the principles laid out in the New Testament.