Radical Generosity and Tithing (A Journey from Law to Love) Translated from Urdu in to English)

This article takes account of the profound shift from Old Testament tithing, structural, percentage giving, to the New Testament radical generosity, a heart-based way of life of giving everything, as Jesus taught. Old Testament Tithing is Law Based Giving And Tithing was a covenantal practice 10% of income was given to Levites, temple, and poor. It was commanded, obligatory, and subject to divine ordinance. Jesus’ Teachings: Giving as Liberation Jesus introduced a revolutionary idea of Radical Giving Giving not out of obligation, but out of love. His teachings call for a generosity that reflects God’s boundless compassion a giving that expects nothing in return. Like we read in Word, The Widow's Mite (Mark 12:41–44): A poor widow gave two small coins. Jesus applauded her for giving "more than all" because her giving was one of sacrifice, not surplus. Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16–22): Jesus commanded him to sell everything that he had and give to the poor, illustrating that radical abandonment is demanded by authentic discipleship. Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7): Jesus taught followers to store up treasures in heaven and seek God's kingdom first. "Compassion is the only form of love that is acceptable, and love equals giving everything." Paul’s Teaching Cheerful, Voluntary Giving Paul added to Jesus' teaching by focusing on glad, voluntary giving: "Each one should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a glad giver." 2 Corinthians 9:7 Paul's Priority Voluntariness instead of duty, Delight instead of duty Leveling instead of ranking, Giving made into an act of mutual care and community up building. Why Radical Giving Matters Today Radical giving goes beyond the tithe. It's essential because: Heart Instead of Habit: Love, trust, and passion instead of legalism. Stewardship Over Ownership, Wealth is managed for God’s kingdom. Counter Cultural Witness, Challenges materialism and consumerism. Community Impact, Reflects the early church’s radical love. Biblical Models of Radical Generosity • Early Church (Acts 2 & 4): Believers sold possessions and shared freely. • Barnabas: Sold land and gave the proceeds to the apostles. • Lydia: Offered radical hospitality and financial support to Paul’s ministry. Radical Generosity Today Modern Echoes of Radical Generosity Philanthropic Foundations: Solving global issues with wealth. Effective Altruism: Logical giving to create maximum benefit. Community-Led Initiatives: Volunteerism and peer-to-peer mutual support networks. Evangelical Perspective: Giving as Witness Evangelicals view radical giving as a testimony of faith: • Reflects God’s love in a broken world • Fuels holistic mission • Combats materialism • Fosters spiritual growth “Beyond tithes and offerings” is the new call encouraging believers to steward life and resources for sustainable impact beyond the church walls. Final Thought, A Call to Radical Love The transition from Old Testament tithing to New Testament radical giving is a deep theology change. Jesus didn't ask for a portion He asked for it all. Give from love, not law. Give from compassion, not compulsion. Radical generosity isn't just about money it's about heart, community, and transformation. It's a lifestyle that embodies God's love and reshapes the world.

1 min read

Personal insights shared.