Paul Dada’s new book questions compulsory 10 per cent tithing

Journalist and Bible teacher, Paul Dada, has published a new ebook criticising the practice of compulsory tithing in churches.

The 56-page book, titled, The Controversial Tithe: What the Bible Really Teaches About Tithing and Giving, takes a critical look at the practice of compulsory 10 per cent tithing in contemporary Christianity.

Dada examines tithing from its references in the Old Testament through the teachings of Jesus and the practice of the early church, arguing that the New Testament does not impose a compulsory 10 per cent giving requirement on Christians.

The book begins by examining the tithes associated with Abraham and Jacob before considering the detailed provisions on tithing under the Mosaic Law.

It subsequently examines Jesus’ references to tithing in the Gospels, including his criticism of the Pharisees for their emphasis on tithing while neglecting “the weightier matters of the law”.

Dada also devotes a chapter to Malachi 3:8-10, a passage frequently cited in Christian teaching on tithing. He argues that the passage must be understood within its original covenantal and historical context and questions its application as a source of obligation or fear for Christians under the New Covenant.

Another section traces the development of compulsory tithing in church history, examining its gradual institutionalisation and later developments in Christian traditions.

The author, however, makes a distinction between rejecting compulsory tithing and rejecting Christian giving.

He argues that Christians are called to give generously, willingly and sacrificially, while also maintaining that ministers and other faithful Christian workers should receive material support.

The final chapter draws on Dada’s experience in his local church, where, according to him, members give voluntarily in response to identified needs rather than through a compulsory tithing system.

Throughout the book, Dada urges readers to examine teachings about tithing against the New Testament rather than accepting them simply because they have become established practices within churches.

The Controversial Tithe: What the Bible Really Teaches About Tithing and Giving is presented as a biblical and historical examination of one of the most debated financial practices in contemporary Christianity.

The book can be downloaded for free on Selar and WordPress