An Exegetical and Theological Study of Malachi 3:8-12 and its Implications for Christians, with Particular Reference to Tithing

Abstract

This thesis discusses the implications of Malachi 3:8-12 in relation to its bearing on New Testament giving in general, and on Christian tithing in particular. Old Testament texts that deal with the subject were examined in order to ascertain what the historical and theological function of the tithe was, and in order to paint a broad background for a closer study of the Malachi text. An exegetical study of Malachi 3:8-12 was conducted to provide a basis of comparison with New Testament texts on giving.An exegetical study of selected New Testament texts related to giving was undertaken, and the results were presented by suggesting some broad principles extracted from the selected texts.In order to synthesize the results of the study, the relationship between Christians and the Law was briefly discussed. Finally, applications were suggested in terms of a New Testament theology of giving, incorporating any implications about giving resulting from the study of Old Testament tithing texts, and of Malachi 3:8-12 specifically.The study found that Malachi 3:8-12 does not apply to believers in so far as it required a tithe to be paid for the support of the temple personnel. The findings suggested that the New Testament‟s teaching on the subject of giving provides a better model for Christians. This model emphasizes voluntary, proportional, generous and joyful giving as demonstrative of a believer‟s attitude toward possessions.

This thesis discusses the implications of Malachi 3:8-12 in relation to its bearing on New Testament giving in general, and on Christian tithing in particular. Old Testament texts that deal with the subject were examined in order to ascertain what the historical and theological function of the tithe was, and in order to paint a broad background for a closer study of the Malachi text. An exegetical study of Malachi 3:8-12 was conducted to provide a basis of comparison with New Testament texts on giving.An exegetical study of selected New Testament texts related to giving was undertaken, and the results were presented by suggesting some broad principles extracted from the selected texts.In order to synthesize the results of the study, the relationship between Christians and the Law was briefly discussed. Finally, applications were suggested in terms of a New Testament theology of giving, incorporating any implications about giving resulting from the study of Old Testament tithing texts, and of Malachi 3:8-12 specifically.The study found that Malachi 3:8-12 does not apply to believers in so far as it required a tithe to be paid for the support of the temple personnel. The findings suggested that the New Testament‟s teaching on the subject of giving provides a better model for Christians. This model emphasizes voluntary, proportional, generous and joyful giving as demonstrative of a believer‟s attitude toward possessions.