Questions On Tithe !
By David Wilson
Inspiration Answers Questions on Tithe
Why should we pay tithe?
Pacific Union Recorder, October 10, 1901
When men realize that they are not their own, that they are bought with a price, and are therefore the Lord’s property, and all they have is simply intrusted to them as His stewards, they will, with cheerful heart, render to God the things that are His, and there will be no occasion to urge or beg for the tithe. All will realize that they are not proprietors, but stewards, and will know that they must give an account of their Lord’s money.
To whom does the tithe belong to?
Review Herald, November 10, 1896
The tithe is God’s portion, not at all the property of man, and the Scripture declares that he who withholds it is guilty of robbery. Who, then, will stand with clean hands before the Lord?
Am I to be forced to pay tithe?
Review and Herald, December 1, 1896
The Lord calls for his tithe to be given in to His treasury. Strictly, honestly, and faithfully, let this portion be returned to Him. Besides this, He calls for your gifts and offerings. No one is compelled to present his tithe or his gifts and offerings to the Lord. But just as surely as God’s word is given to us, just so surely will He require His own with usury at the hand of every human being. If men are unfaithful in rendering to God His own, if they disregard God’s charge to His stewards, they will not long have the blessing of that which the Lord has entrusted to them.
When should I set aside tithe?
Review and Herald, November 10, 1896
Not only does the Lord claim the tithe as His own, but He tells us how it should be reserved for Him. He says, “Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first-fruits of thine increase.” This does not teach that we are to spend our means on ourselves, and bring to the Lord the remnant, even though it should be otherwise an honest tithe. Let God’s portion be first set apart.
The directions given by the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul, in regard to gifts, present a principle that applies also to tithing. “On the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” Parents and children are here included. Not only the rich, but the poor are addressed. “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart [through the candid consideration of God’s prescribed plan], so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” The gifts are to be made in consideration of the great goodness of God to us.
Can I pay as I feel like it?
Review and Herald, May 9, 1893
This matter of giving is not left to impulse. God has given us definite instruction in regard to it. He has specified tithes and offerings as the measure of our obligation. And He desires us to give regularly and systematically. Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, “Concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” Let each regularly examine his income, which is all a blessing from God, and set apart the tithe as a separate fund, to be sacredly the Lord’s. This fund should not in any case be devoted to any other use; it is to be devoted solely to support the ministry of the gospel. After the tithe is set apart, let gifts and offerings be apportioned, “as God hath prospered you.”
Review and Herald, December 17, 1889
There are many things which should stir the soul to action at this time. We cannot afford to be sluggards now, my brethren. The Lord has the first claim upon all that we have. The means in our possession has been given to us in trust, and we hold it simply as the stewards of God’s bounty. Many have made a mistake in withholding from the Lord that which He has plainly specified as His own. The tithe of all that God has blessed you with, belongs to Him; and you have robbed God when you have used it for your own enterprises. The Lord has not left the disposal of the tithe to you, to be given or withheld as your inclination may dictate. He has placed the matter beyond all question, and there has been great neglect on the part of many of God’s professed people to fulfill the requirements of His word in regard to tithing.
Lift Him Up, 304
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse” (Mal. 3:10) is God’s command. No appeal is made to gratitude or to generosity. This is a matter of simple honesty. The tithe is the Lord’s; and He bids us return to Him that which is His own.
But what if I do not see the obligation of the tithe, or find it in the New Testament?
Our High Calling, 192
When we give the Lord the tithe, we are only giving Him that which is His own, to withhold which is theft and robbery. Does your account book reveal that you have dealt faithfully with your Lord? Are you poor? Then give your little. Have you been blessed with abundance? Then be sure to lay aside that which the Lord registers as His own.… The neglect to confess Christ in your account books cuts you off from the great privilege of having your name registered in the Lamb’s book of life.
Review and Herald, May 16, 1882
The very same language is used concerning the Sabbath as in the law of the tithe: “The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God.” Man has no right nor power to substitute the first day for the seventh. He may pretend to do this; “nevertheless, the foundation of God standeth sure.” The customs and teachings of men will not lessen the claims of the divine law. God has sanctified the seventh day. That specified portion of time, set apart by God Himself for religious worship, continues as sacred today as when first hallowed by our Creator. In like manner a tithe of our income is “holy unto the Lord.” The New Testament does not reenact the law of the tithe, as it does not that of the Sabbath; for the validity of both is assumed, and their deep spiritual import explained.
The Publishing Ministry, 111
There are those in the office who have withheld their tithe from the treasury, claiming that they could not see the requirement in the Word of God. But why could they not see it? It was because selfishness was firmly rooted in the heart. They did not deny self, and make their offering to God. For years they have practiced robbery toward God; but does not the Lord keep a record of all their doings? Most assuredly, for it is written that every man shall be rewarded according as his works have been, judged according to the deeds done in the body, whether they are good or whether they are evil. The Lord will not pass over the embezzlement of His goods. He is testing men to see who will be fit subjects for His kingdom above; for if they disregard His claims here, they will disregard them in the kingdom of heaven.
How does God view those who from time to time rise up and teach we need not pay tithe?
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 60
I understand that you are also proclaiming that we should not pay tithe. My brother, take ‘off thy shoes from off thy feet;’ for the place whereon you are standing is holy ground. The Lord has spoken in regard to paying tithes. He has said, ‘Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.’ But while He pronounces a blessing upon those who bring in their tithes, He pronounces a curse upon those who withhold them.
Very recently I have had direct light from the Lord upon this question, that many Seventh-day Adventists were robbing God in tithes and offerings, and it was plainly revealed to me that Malachi has stated the case as it really is. Then how dare any man even think in his heart that a suggestion to withhold tithes and offerings is from the Lord? Where, my brother, have you stepped out of the path? Oh, get your feet back in the straight path again.
Does paying tithe mean I am saved or converted?
Manuscript Releases Volume 12, 291
The spirit of the self-righteous Pharisees has been cherished by men and women who profess to believe the truth. They were working to be first in everything. They loved the uppermost rooms at feasts and the chief seats in synagogues, but shut up the kingdom of heaven against men, neither going in themselves nor permitting others to enter; and who, for a pretense made long prayers, but secretly devoured widows’ houses; who paid tithe of mint and anise and cummin, but neglected the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and the love of God; who externally appeared to love the truth and to be very zealous for the cause of God, while the heart was left unsubdued, unsanctified, unhumbled, open to jealousy thus leaders neglected the weightier matters of the law for matters of minor importance.
The Saviour reproved them, saying, “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.”
Testimonies for the Church Volume 4, 337
An adherence to the strictest principles of truth will frequently cause present inconvenience and may even involve temporal loss, but it will increase the reward in the future life. Religion does not consist merely in a system of dry doctrines, but in practical faith, which sanctifies the life and corrects the conduct in the family circle and in the church. Many may tithe mint and rue, but neglect the weightier matters, mercy and the love of God. To walk humbly with God is essential to the perfection of Christian character. God requires undeviating principle in the minutest details of the transactions of life. Said Christ: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.”
Is the paying of tithe an end in itself or part of the Christian graces?
Messages to Young People, 303
Humility, self-denial, benevolence, and the payment of a faithful tithe, these show that the grace of God is working in the heart.
Review and Herald, vol. 3, 45
Thus while our gifts cannot recommend us to God, or earn His favor, they are an evidence that we have received the grace of Christ. They are a test of the sincerity of our profession of love.
Can Christian duties such as prayer be substituted for returning a faithful tithe?
Messages to Young People, 248
Prayer is not intended to work any change in God; it brings us into harmony with God. It does not take the place of duty. Prayer offered ever so often and ever so earnestly will never be accepted by God in the place of our tithe. Prayer will not pay our debts to God.
Review and Herald, May 16, 1893
Alms and prayers are to be united; both are offerings to God, the one the supplement of the other. Merely to pray and to have good intentions is not enough. All Christians are under obligation to labor and sacrifice in the spirit with which Christ labored for the salvation of souls. Not only has the Lord given us as His stewards, talents of means to render back to the Giver, but He has endowed us with mental powers to use for Him. He has made us the stewards of His grace, that both spiritual and temporal gifts may be employed for the saving of souls and the glory of Him who so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son.
The Home Missionary, December 1, 1894
Render back to Me the tithes and gifts, and offerings, as a token of your loyalty to Me, and of your dependence upon Me, and I will bless you, and you shall be channels of blessing. Your gratitude offerings will be a token of your sense of obligation to Me. The gratitude that ends simply in words, has no particular value; for faith is made perfect by works, and without works your profession of faith is of no worth.
Some who are poor feel their tithe is so little they need not pay it, is this true?
In Heavenly Places, 304
In the Bible system of tithes and offerings the amounts paid by different persons will of course vary greatly, since they are proportioned to the income. With the poor man the tithe will be a comparatively small sum, and his gifts will be according to his ability. But it is not the greatness of the gift that makes the offering acceptable to God; it is the purpose of the heart, the spirit of gratitude and love that it expresses. Let not the poor feel that their gifts are so small as to be unworthy of notice. Let them give according to their ability, feeling that they are servants of God, and that He will accept their offering.
What should tithe be used for?
Review and Herald, November 23, 1905
Let the Lord’s people pay a faithful tithe, and let them, also, from parents to children, lay aside for the Lord the money that is so often spent for self-gratification. The Lord has made us His stewards. He has placed His means in our hands for faithful distribution. He asks us to render to Him his own. He has reserved the tithe as his portion, to be used in sending the gospel to all parts of the world.
Manuscript Releases Volume 1, 185
…They will have a sense of the sacredness of God’s work. They will see the necessity of the tithe money being faithfully paid into the treasury, and reserved for the sacred work to which God designs that it should be devoted,— to carry the last message of mercy to a fallen world.
Special Testimonies Series A, number 9, p. 71
God lays His hand upon all man’s possessions, saying, I am the owner of the universe, and these goods are mine. The tithe you have withheld I reserved for the support of my servants in their work of opening the Scriptures to those who are in the regions of darkness, who do not understand my law.
Pamphlet 157, Special Testimony to the Oakland and Battle Creek Churches, 10, 11
There are exceptional cases, where poverty is so deep that, in order to secure the humblest place of worship, it may be necessary to appropriate the tithes. But that place is not Battle Creek or Oakland.
What should tithe not be used for?
Manuscript Releases Volume 13, 282
The Lord regards the tithe as His own, to be used for a certain purpose, and it is an easy matter, in the place of practicing the self-denial that we should, to help in educating students, or in the temporal matters, as providing conveniences for the church, which is necessary, to dip into the Lord’s consecrated portion which should be used only to sustain the ministers in new fields as well as in other places. And this should not be done in a niggardly way. All the inconveniences that the laborers must wrestle with in these new fields should be taken into consideration. The expense of living is greater in some localities than in others.
Selected Messages, Book 2, 209
When you see a young man or a young women who is a promising subject, advance or loan the sum needed, with the idea that it is a loan, not a gift. It would be better to have it thus. Then when it is returned, it can be used to educate others. But this money is not to be taken from the tithe, but from a separate fund secured for that purpose.
An Appeal for Missions, p. 24
Every one who is honored in being a steward of God should carefully guard the tithe fund. The Lord does not sanction the borrowing of this money for other purposes.
Manuscript Releases Volume 7, 135
Those who have charge of our church buildings are to be supplied with the means that is necessary to keep these buildings in good repair. But this money is not to come from the tithe.
Manuscript Releases Volume 1, 191, 192
In the sixth chapter of Acts, we are shown how, when men were to be selected to fill positions in the church, the matter was brought before the Lord, and most earnest prayer was offered for guidance. The widows and fatherless were to be supported by contributions from the church. Their wants were not to be relieved by the church, but by special donations. The tithe was to be consecrated to the Lord, and was always to be used for the support of the ministry. Important Positions in the General Conference, January 24, 1899.)
Review and Herald, December 1, 1896
The tithe is set apart for a special use. It is not to be regarded as a poor fund.
Manuscript Releases Volume 1, 182
The minister who labors should be sustained. But notwithstanding this, those who are officiating in this work see that there is not money in the treasury to pay the minister. They are withdrawing the tithe for other expenses,—to keep up the meeting house necessities or some charity. God is not glorified in any such work. We have to raise our voice against this kind of management.
To whom should tithe go?
Evangelism, 492
The tithe should go to those who labor in word and doctrine, be they men or women.
Welfare Ministry, 277
The tithe is set apart for a special use. It is not to be regarded as a poor fund. It is to be especially devoted to the support of those who are bearing God’s message to the world, and it should not be diverted from this purpose.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, 215
Light has been plainly given that those who minister in our schools, teaching the word of God, explaining the Scriptures, educating the students in the things of God, should be supported by the tithe money.
Testimonies for the Church Volume 6, 215
Instruction has been given me that there is a withholding of the tithe that should be faithfully brought into the Lord’s treasury for the support of ministers and missionaries who are opening the Scriptures to the people and working from house to house.
Echoes from the Field, June 21, 1905
The tithe is sacred, reserved by God for Himself. It is to be brought into His treasury to be used to sustain the gospel laborers in their work.
Manuscript Releases vol. 7. 366
If this money in tithe is paid by the workers into the treasury, why, I ask should not that amount be apportioned to the carrying forward of the medical missionary work?
1 Corinthians 9:13, 14
Do you not know that those men who are employed in the services of the temple get their food from the temple? And that those who tend the altar share with the altar [in the offerings brought?] Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
Are there those in the ministry who should not be paid tithe?
Gospel Workers, 1915. 94, 95
The ministry is becoming enfeebled because men are assuming the responsibility of preaching without gaining the needed preparation for this work. Many have made a mistake in receiving credentials. They will have to take up work to which they are better adapted than the preaching of the word. They are being paid from the tithe, but their efforts are feeble, and they should not continue to be paid from this fund. In many ways the ministry is losing its sacred character.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, 378
No man should be set apart as a teacher of the people while his own teaching or example contradicts the testimony God has given his servants to bear in regard to diet, for this will bring confusion. His disregard of health reform unfits him to stand as the Lord’s messenger.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 3, 553
It would be poor policy to support from the treasury of God those who really mar and injure His work, and who are constantly lowering the standards of Christianity.
Fundamentals of Christian Education, 477
The tithe should not be used to pay anyone for speechifying on political questions. Every teacher, minister, or leader in our ranks who is stirred with a desire to ventilate his opinions on political questions, should be converted by a belief in the truth, or give up his work.
Series A, Number 1, p. 6, 7
There are ministers, and not a few, either, that have carried credentials for years, and yet they do not give evidence of being converted men, either in their personal experience or in their labors. Their labors do not benefit the church, but in many instances are a positive injury. Many of our brethren have expressed themselves to the effect that if their Conference continues to pay money to such [unconverted] ministers, they will withhold their tithes. We do not say that it would be right for individuals to withhold from the Lord that which is His; but, on the other hand, it certainly is very wrong for the conference to give credentials to such men, and it is nothing less than sin to take the Lord’s money to pay for such labor. There must be earnest labor with such men; and if they will not reform, there can be no reason why they should continue to hold credentials.
Does God have workers not paid by and working for the organized structure?
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 9, 170
He will call men from the plow and from other occupations to give the last note of warning to perishing souls.
What if there is misuse of money or apostasy?
Gospel Workers, 226, 227
The tithe is sacred, reserved by God for Himself. It is to be brought into His treasury to be used to sustain the gospel laborers in their work. For a long time the Lord has been robbed because there are those who do not realize that the tithe is God’s reserved portion. Some have been dissatisfied, and have said, “I will not longer pay my tithe; for I have no confidence in the way things are managed at the heart of the work.” But will you rob God because you think the management of the work is not right? Make your complaint, plainly and openly, in the right spirit, to the proper ones. Send in your petitions for things to be adjusted and set in order; but do not withdraw from the work of God, and prove unfaithful, because others are not doing right.
Sermons and Talks Volume 2, 74, 75
You who have been withholding your means from the cause of God, read the book of Malachi and see what is spoken there in regard to tithes and offerings. Cannot you see that it is not best under any circumstances to withhold your tithes and offerings because you are not in harmony with everything that your brethren do? The tithes and offerings are not the property of any man, but are to be used in doing a certain work for God. Unworthy ministers may receive some of the means thus raised, but dare anyone, because of this, withhold from the treasury and brave the curse of God? I dare not.
I pay my tithe gladly and freely, saying, as did David, “Of Thine own have we given Thee.” A selfish withholding from God will tend to poverty in our own souls. Act your part, my brethren and sisters. God loves you, and He stands at the helm. If the conference business is not managed according to the order of the Lord, that is the sin of the erring one. The Lord will not hold you responsible for it if you do what you can to correct the evil. But do not commit sin yourselves by withholding from the Lord His own property. “Cursed be he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully” or negligently.
Does this mean I should support misuse or apostasy?
Gospel Workers, 245
If God pronounces a woe upon those who are called to preach the truth and refuse to obey, a heavier woe rests upon those who take upon them this sacred work without clean hands and pure hearts. As there are woes for those who preach the truth while they are unsanctified in heart and life, so there are woes for those who receive and maintain the unsanctified in the position which they cannot fill.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 1, 261, 262
There are fearful woes for those who preach the truth, but are not sanctified by it, and also for those who consent to receive and maintain the unsanctified to minister to them in word and doctrine.
I do not want to withhold tithe from God, but conscience will not allow me to pay tithe through the regular channels. What does God say to me?
Spalding and Magan Collection, 421
Do not worry lest some means shall go direct to those who are trying to do missionary work in a quiet and effective way. All the means is not to be handled by one agency or organization. There is much business to be done conscientiously for the cause of God.
Spalding and Magan Collection, 498
Send no statement of the situation through our religious papers; because it will not be honored. Send direct to the people. God’s ways are not to be counterworked by man’s ways. There are those who have means, and who will give large and small sums. Have this money come direct to your destitute portion of the vineyard. The Lord has not specified any regular channel through which means should pass.
Manuscript Releases Volume 20, 143
I want my brethren to begin to understand some things for themselves. God alone, by the quickening, vivifying influence of His Holy Spirit, can enable men to distinguish between the sacred and the common. God alone can make men understand that working on regular lines has led to irregular practices. God alone can make men’s minds as they should be. The time has come when we should hear less in favor of the regular lines. If we can get away from the regular lines into something which, though irregular, is after God’s order, it may cut away something of the irregular working which has led away from Bible principles.
Spalding and Magan Collection, 175, 176
God grant that the voices which have been so quickly raised to say that all the money invested in the work must go through the appointed channel at Battle Creek, [General Conference headquarters at the time this was written] shall not be heard. The people to whom God has given His means are amenable to Him alone. It is their privilege to give direct aid and assistance to missions. It is because of the misappropriation of means that the Southern field has no better showing than it has today.
Spalding and Magan Collection, 215
I have myself appropriated my tithe to the most needy cases brought to my notice. I have been instructed to do this; and as the money is not withheld from the Lord’s treasury, it is not a matter that should be commented upon; for it will necessitate my making known these matters, which I do not desire to do, because it is not best.…
Some cases have been kept before me for years, and I have supplied their needs from the tithe, as God has instructed me to do. And if any person shall say to me, Sister White, will you appropriate my tithe where you know it is most needed, I shall say, Yes, I will; and I have done so. I commend those sisters who have placed their tithe where it is most needed to help to do a work that is being left undone; and if this matter is given publicity, it will create knowledge which would better be left as it is. I do not care to give publicity to this work which the Lord has appointed me to do, and others to do.
I send this matter to you so that you shall not make a mistake. Circumstances alter cases. I would not advise that any should make a practice of gathering up tithe money. But for years there have now and then been persons who have lost confidence in the appropriation of the tithe who have placed their tithe in my hands, and said that if I did not take it they would themselves appropriate it to the families of the most needy minister they could find. I have taken the money, given a receipt for it, and told them how it was appropriated.
Whose treasury is tithe and offerings to be placed in?
Atlantic Union Gleaner, December 14, 1904
He places His treasures in the hand of humanity, but requires that one-tenth shall be faithfully laid aside for His work. He teaches us the lesson that He requires this portion to be placed in His treasury. It is to be rendered to Him as His own; it is sacred, and is to be used for sacred purposes, for the support of those who carry the message of salvation to all parts of the world. He reserves this portion, that means may be flowing into His treasure-house, and that the light of truth may be carried to those who are nigh and those afar off.
By faithfully obeying this requirement, we prove that we realize that all belongs to God. And has not the Lord a right to demand this much of us? Did he not give us His only begotten Son because He loved us and desired to save us from death? And shall not our gratitude offerings flow into the Lord’s treasury, to be drawn there from to advance His kingdom in the earth? God is the owner of all our goods, and shall not gratitude to Him prompt us to make free-will offerings and thank offerings, thus acknowledging His owner ship of soul, body, spirit, and property?
Review and Herald, December 8, 1896
He claims the tithe as His own, and it should ever be regarded as a sacred reserve, to be placed in His treasury for the benefit of His cause, for the advancement of His work, for sending His messengers into “regions beyond,” even to the uttermost parts of the earth.
If the treasury belongs to God, then what qualifies a place or work as His treasury?
Pamphlet 097, Testimony for the Church at Battle Creek, 16
Your stinted offerings are brought to God almost unwillingly, while, in self-gratification, means are spent lavishly. How much of the wages earned finds its way into the treasury of God to aid in the advancement of His work in saving souls?
Pamphlet 166, Special on Tithing, 6
He teaches us the lesson that He requires this portion to be placed in His treasury. It is to be rendered to Him as His own; it is sacred, and is to be used for sacred purposes, for the support of those who carry the message of salvation to all parts of the world. He reserves this portion, that means many be flowing into His treasure-house, and that the light of truth may be carried to those who are nigh and those who are afar off.
How many storehouses are there in this world?
Pamphlet 004, An Appeal for Missions, p. 4
There who are truly converted are called to do a work which requires money and consecration. The obligation which binds us to place our names on the church roll holds us responsible to work to the utmost of our ability for God. He calls for undivided service, for the entire devotion of heart, soul, mind, and strength. Christ has brought us into church capacity, that he may engage and engross all our capabilities in devoted service for the salvation of others. Anything short of this is opposition to the work. There are only two places in the universe where we can deposit our treasures,—in God's storehouse or in Satan’s; and all that is not devoted to God’s service is counted on Satan’s side, and goes to strengthen his cause.
Are pastors the only messengers of truth?
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, pp. 315, 316 (1900)
The silent messengers that are placed in the homes of the people through the work of the canvasser will strengthen the gospel ministry in every way; for the Holy Spirit will impress minds as they read the books, just as He impresses the minds of those who listen to the preaching of the word. The same ministry of angels attends the books that contain the truth as attends the work of the minister.
Review and Herald, December 19, 1878
The papers and tracts can go where the living preacher cannot go, and where if he could go he would have no access to the people, because of their prejudice against the truth.
Review and Herald, December 19, 1878
The great lack of men to go from place to place and preach the word may be in a great degree supplied by tracts and papers….
The Southern Watchman, January 23, 1902
These silent messengers that we have accomplish a work which the ministry can not do.
Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, 205, 206
As the preaching of Noah warned, tested, and proved the inhabitants of the world before the flood of waters destroyed them from off the face of the earth, so the truth of God for these last days is doing a similar work of warning, testing, and proving the world. The publications which go forth from the Office bear the signet of the Eternal. They are being scattered all through the land, and are deciding the destiny of souls.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 4, 472
But while some go forth to preach he calls upon others to answer His claims upon them for tithes and offerings with which to support the ministry and to spread the printed truth all over the land.
Should the workers let the people know how things are managed?
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1733
The Lord desires His Holy Spirit to come into this meeting. He declares that every vestige of sharpness in dealing must be removed, for He hates it. No sharpness is to be exercised toward His servants who are working for Him, bringing the tithe into the treasury that His cause may be sustained. God’s treasury is to be supplied by the tithe, which is to be regarded as a sacred fund. It is God’s, and it is to be liberally given, that the work may be sustained. Those in responsible places are to act in such a way that the people will have firm confidence in them. These men should not be afraid to open to the light of day everything in the management of the work.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 3, p. 49
There is not a class of people in the world who are more willing to sacrifice of their means to advance the cause than are Seventh-day Adventist. If the ministers do not utterly discourage them by their indolence and inefficiency, and by their lack of spirituality, they will generally respond to any appeal that may be made that commands itself to their judgment and consciences. But they want to see fruit. And it is right that the brethren in New York should demand fruit of their ministers. What have they done? What are they doing?
The Kress Collection, 120
The churches must arouse. The members must awake out of sleep and begin to inquire, How is the money which we put into the treasury being used? The Lord desires that a close search be made. Are all satisfied with the history of the work for the past fifteen years? Where is the evidence of the co-working with God? Where has been heard throughout the churches the prayer for the help of the Holy Spirit? Dissatisfied and disheartened, we turn away from the scene.
Our churches and institutions must return to where they were before the backsliding commenced, when they began trusting in man and making flesh their arm. Have we not seen enough of human wisdom? Shall we not now seek God in earnestness and simplicity, and serve him with heart and mind and strength?
Can I withhold tithe for a personal emergency?
Gospel Workers, 1915, 225
Let none feel at liberty to retain their tithe, to use according to their own judgment. They are not to use it for themselves in an emergency, nor to apply it as they see fit, even in what they may regard as the Lord’s work.
Is the tithe the limit of my giving?
The Signs of the Times, January 21, 1886
“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed Thee? In tithes and offerings.” There has been a fearful withholding from God, and, as a result, the withdrawal of His special blessing. We should not look upon the tithe as the limit of our liberality. The Jews were required to bring to God numerous offerings besides the tithe; and shall not we, who enjoy the blessings of the gospel, do as much to sustain the cause of God as was done in the former, less-favored dispensation? As the work for this time is extending in the earth, the calls for help are constantly increasing. And in view of this the Lord commands us, “Bring ye all the tithes into the store-house, that there may be meat in mine house,” that is, a surplus of means in the treasury, that the work of God in its various branches may be amply sustained.
Is it wise to let tithe obligations accumulate?
Counsels on Stewardship, 96
Many have long neglected to deal honestly with their Maker. Failing to lay aside the tithe weekly, they have let it accumulate, until it amounts to a large sum, and now they are very reluctant to make the matter right. This back tithe they keep, using it as their own. But it is God’s property, which they have refused to put into His treasury.
Counsels on Stewardship 67
A tithe of all our increase is the Lord’s. He has reserved it to Himself, to be employed for religious purposes. It is holy. Nothing less than this has He accepted in any disposition. A neglect or postponement of this duty, will provoke the divine displeasure.
If I have robbed God do I need to make restitution?
Counsels on Stewardship, 87
Hasten, my brethren and sisters, to bring to God a faithful tithe, and to bring Him also a willing thank offering. There are many who will not be blessed till they make restitution of the tithe which they have withheld. God is waiting for you to redeem the past. The hand of the holy law is laid upon every soul who enjoys God’s benefits. Let those who have kept back their tithe make an accurate reckoning, and bring to the Lord that of which they have robbed His work. Make restitution, and bring the Lord peace offerings. “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.” If you acknowledge that you have done wrong in misappropriating His goods, and freely and fully repent, He will forgive your transgression.
The Signs of the Times, January 6, 1890
Let those who have means give of their means to the glory of God. Let them show that they appreciate the gift of God’s dear Son, that they love Him with undivided affection, and will manifest their faith in His mission and work by replenishing the treasury of God. The means that God intrusts to men is for the forwarding of His work in the earth. God’s word appeals to you to give. There are souls to be saved. There are those who know not the truth, and they must be enlightened by missionary effort. How many have withheld their tithe?
How many have withheld themselves from the service of God? When those who have for years withheld their tithes become convicted, and reckon up and see how large is the sum they owe to God, they must not become discouraged and do nothing to diminish the debt. If you can, pay the whole amount, but if you cannot, do the best you can, begin to pay tithes from the first of 1890. Confess to the Lord your robbery toward Him, and give yourselves in full surrender as an offering to the Lord. Tell the Lord that if He will place it in your power, you will meet your obligation to Him, and render back to Him His own.
What is the consequence when we withhold tithe and offerings?
The Home Missionary, April 4, 1895
The preaching of the gospel is God’s appointed way for converting the souls of men. Men must hear in order to be saved. They cannot hear without a preacher, and the preacher must be sent. This makes it necessary to have funds in the treasury in order to provide means whereby the missionary may reach destitute fields. In the light of this fact, how can those who profess to follow Christ, rob God of His own intrusted talents in tithes and offerings? Is it not refusing bread to starving souls? To withhold the means which God has claimed as His own, whereby He has made provision that souls shall be saved, will surely bring a curse upon those who thus rob God. Souls for whom Christ has died, are denied the privilege of hearing the truth, because men refuse to carry out the measures which God has provided for the enlightenment of the lost.
Pamphlet 039, An Important Testimony to our Brethren and Sisters in New York, 5
Do these men know that they are robbing God every day of their lives? Do they know that they are devoting their time, their physical and mental talents, in laying upon the foundation, hay, wood, and stubble? All the improvements of years will be consumed with the fires of the last day, and if they themselves are saved, it will be only as by fire. Their whole life work is in ashes. The reward that they might have gained if they had been faithful stewards, is lost, eternally lost. A host of souls that they might have saved are not saved, because of their neglect.
Why should we pay tithe?
Pacific Union Recorder, October 10, 1901
When men realize that they are not their own, that they are bought with a price, and are therefore the Lord’s property, and all they have is simply intrusted to them as His stewards, they will, with cheerful heart, render to God the things that are His, and there will be no occasion to urge or beg for the tithe. All will realize that they are not proprietors, but stewards, and will know that they must give an account of their Lord’s money.
To whom does the tithe belong to?
Review Herald, November 10, 1896
The tithe is God’s portion, not at all the property of man, and the Scripture declares that he who withholds it is guilty of robbery. Who, then, will stand with clean hands before the Lord?
Am I to be forced to pay tithe?
Review and Herald, December 1, 1896
The Lord calls for his tithe to be given in to His treasury. Strictly, honestly, and faithfully, let this portion be returned to Him. Besides this, He calls for your gifts and offerings. No one is compelled to present his tithe or his gifts and offerings to the Lord. But just as surely as God’s word is given to us, just so surely will He require His own with usury at the hand of every human being. If men are unfaithful in rendering to God His own, if they disregard God’s charge to His stewards, they will not long have the blessing of that which the Lord has entrusted to them.
When should I set aside tithe?
Review and Herald, November 10, 1896
Not only does the Lord claim the tithe as His own, but He tells us how it should be reserved for Him. He says, “Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first-fruits of thine increase.” This does not teach that we are to spend our means on ourselves, and bring to the Lord the remnant, even though it should be otherwise an honest tithe. Let God’s portion be first set apart.
The directions given by the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul, in regard to gifts, present a principle that applies also to tithing. “On the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” Parents and children are here included. Not only the rich, but the poor are addressed. “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart [through the candid consideration of God’s prescribed plan], so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” The gifts are to be made in consideration of the great goodness of God to us.
Can I pay as I feel like it?
Review and Herald, May 9, 1893
This matter of giving is not left to impulse. God has given us definite instruction in regard to it. He has specified tithes and offerings as the measure of our obligation. And He desires us to give regularly and systematically. Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, “Concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” Let each regularly examine his income, which is all a blessing from God, and set apart the tithe as a separate fund, to be sacredly the Lord’s. This fund should not in any case be devoted to any other use; it is to be devoted solely to support the ministry of the gospel. After the tithe is set apart, let gifts and offerings be apportioned, “as God hath prospered you.”
Review and Herald, December 17, 1889
There are many things which should stir the soul to action at this time. We cannot afford to be sluggards now, my brethren. The Lord has the first claim upon all that we have. The means in our possession has been given to us in trust, and we hold it simply as the stewards of God’s bounty. Many have made a mistake in withholding from the Lord that which He has plainly specified as His own. The tithe of all that God has blessed you with, belongs to Him; and you have robbed God when you have used it for your own enterprises. The Lord has not left the disposal of the tithe to you, to be given or withheld as your inclination may dictate. He has placed the matter beyond all question, and there has been great neglect on the part of many of God’s professed people to fulfill the requirements of His word in regard to tithing.
Lift Him Up, 304
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse” (Mal. 3:10) is God’s command. No appeal is made to gratitude or to generosity. This is a matter of simple honesty. The tithe is the Lord’s; and He bids us return to Him that which is His own.
But what if I do not see the obligation of the tithe, or find it in the New Testament?
Our High Calling, 192
When we give the Lord the tithe, we are only giving Him that which is His own, to withhold which is theft and robbery. Does your account book reveal that you have dealt faithfully with your Lord? Are you poor? Then give your little. Have you been blessed with abundance? Then be sure to lay aside that which the Lord registers as His own.… The neglect to confess Christ in your account books cuts you off from the great privilege of having your name registered in the Lamb’s book of life.
Review and Herald, May 16, 1882
The very same language is used concerning the Sabbath as in the law of the tithe: “The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God.” Man has no right nor power to substitute the first day for the seventh. He may pretend to do this; “nevertheless, the foundation of God standeth sure.” The customs and teachings of men will not lessen the claims of the divine law. God has sanctified the seventh day. That specified portion of time, set apart by God Himself for religious worship, continues as sacred today as when first hallowed by our Creator. In like manner a tithe of our income is “holy unto the Lord.” The New Testament does not reenact the law of the tithe, as it does not that of the Sabbath; for the validity of both is assumed, and their deep spiritual import explained.
The Publishing Ministry, 111
There are those in the office who have withheld their tithe from the treasury, claiming that they could not see the requirement in the Word of God. But why could they not see it? It was because selfishness was firmly rooted in the heart. They did not deny self, and make their offering to God. For years they have practiced robbery toward God; but does not the Lord keep a record of all their doings? Most assuredly, for it is written that every man shall be rewarded according as his works have been, judged according to the deeds done in the body, whether they are good or whether they are evil. The Lord will not pass over the embezzlement of His goods. He is testing men to see who will be fit subjects for His kingdom above; for if they disregard His claims here, they will disregard them in the kingdom of heaven.
How does God view those who from time to time rise up and teach we need not pay tithe?
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 60
I understand that you are also proclaiming that we should not pay tithe. My brother, take ‘off thy shoes from off thy feet;’ for the place whereon you are standing is holy ground. The Lord has spoken in regard to paying tithes. He has said, ‘Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.’ But while He pronounces a blessing upon those who bring in their tithes, He pronounces a curse upon those who withhold them.
Very recently I have had direct light from the Lord upon this question, that many Seventh-day Adventists were robbing God in tithes and offerings, and it was plainly revealed to me that Malachi has stated the case as it really is. Then how dare any man even think in his heart that a suggestion to withhold tithes and offerings is from the Lord? Where, my brother, have you stepped out of the path? Oh, get your feet back in the straight path again.
Does paying tithe mean I am saved or converted?
Manuscript Releases Volume 12, 291
The spirit of the self-righteous Pharisees has been cherished by men and women who profess to believe the truth. They were working to be first in everything. They loved the uppermost rooms at feasts and the chief seats in synagogues, but shut up the kingdom of heaven against men, neither going in themselves nor permitting others to enter; and who, for a pretense made long prayers, but secretly devoured widows’ houses; who paid tithe of mint and anise and cummin, but neglected the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and the love of God; who externally appeared to love the truth and to be very zealous for the cause of God, while the heart was left unsubdued, unsanctified, unhumbled, open to jealousy thus leaders neglected the weightier matters of the law for matters of minor importance.
The Saviour reproved them, saying, “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.”
Testimonies for the Church Volume 4, 337
An adherence to the strictest principles of truth will frequently cause present inconvenience and may even involve temporal loss, but it will increase the reward in the future life. Religion does not consist merely in a system of dry doctrines, but in practical faith, which sanctifies the life and corrects the conduct in the family circle and in the church. Many may tithe mint and rue, but neglect the weightier matters, mercy and the love of God. To walk humbly with God is essential to the perfection of Christian character. God requires undeviating principle in the minutest details of the transactions of life. Said Christ: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.”
Is the paying of tithe an end in itself or part of the Christian graces?
Messages to Young People, 303
Humility, self-denial, benevolence, and the payment of a faithful tithe, these show that the grace of God is working in the heart.
Review and Herald, vol. 3, 45
Thus while our gifts cannot recommend us to God, or earn His favor, they are an evidence that we have received the grace of Christ. They are a test of the sincerity of our profession of love.
Can Christian duties such as prayer be substituted for returning a faithful tithe?
Messages to Young People, 248
Prayer is not intended to work any change in God; it brings us into harmony with God. It does not take the place of duty. Prayer offered ever so often and ever so earnestly will never be accepted by God in the place of our tithe. Prayer will not pay our debts to God.
Review and Herald, May 16, 1893
Alms and prayers are to be united; both are offerings to God, the one the supplement of the other. Merely to pray and to have good intentions is not enough. All Christians are under obligation to labor and sacrifice in the spirit with which Christ labored for the salvation of souls. Not only has the Lord given us as His stewards, talents of means to render back to the Giver, but He has endowed us with mental powers to use for Him. He has made us the stewards of His grace, that both spiritual and temporal gifts may be employed for the saving of souls and the glory of Him who so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son.
The Home Missionary, December 1, 1894
Render back to Me the tithes and gifts, and offerings, as a token of your loyalty to Me, and of your dependence upon Me, and I will bless you, and you shall be channels of blessing. Your gratitude offerings will be a token of your sense of obligation to Me. The gratitude that ends simply in words, has no particular value; for faith is made perfect by works, and without works your profession of faith is of no worth.
Some who are poor feel their tithe is so little they need not pay it, is this true?
In Heavenly Places, 304
In the Bible system of tithes and offerings the amounts paid by different persons will of course vary greatly, since they are proportioned to the income. With the poor man the tithe will be a comparatively small sum, and his gifts will be according to his ability. But it is not the greatness of the gift that makes the offering acceptable to God; it is the purpose of the heart, the spirit of gratitude and love that it expresses. Let not the poor feel that their gifts are so small as to be unworthy of notice. Let them give according to their ability, feeling that they are servants of God, and that He will accept their offering.
What should tithe be used for?
Review and Herald, November 23, 1905
Let the Lord’s people pay a faithful tithe, and let them, also, from parents to children, lay aside for the Lord the money that is so often spent for self-gratification. The Lord has made us His stewards. He has placed His means in our hands for faithful distribution. He asks us to render to Him his own. He has reserved the tithe as his portion, to be used in sending the gospel to all parts of the world.
Manuscript Releases Volume 1, 185
…They will have a sense of the sacredness of God’s work. They will see the necessity of the tithe money being faithfully paid into the treasury, and reserved for the sacred work to which God designs that it should be devoted,— to carry the last message of mercy to a fallen world.
Special Testimonies Series A, number 9, p. 71
God lays His hand upon all man’s possessions, saying, I am the owner of the universe, and these goods are mine. The tithe you have withheld I reserved for the support of my servants in their work of opening the Scriptures to those who are in the regions of darkness, who do not understand my law.
Pamphlet 157, Special Testimony to the Oakland and Battle Creek Churches, 10, 11
There are exceptional cases, where poverty is so deep that, in order to secure the humblest place of worship, it may be necessary to appropriate the tithes. But that place is not Battle Creek or Oakland.
What should tithe not be used for?
Manuscript Releases Volume 13, 282
The Lord regards the tithe as His own, to be used for a certain purpose, and it is an easy matter, in the place of practicing the self-denial that we should, to help in educating students, or in the temporal matters, as providing conveniences for the church, which is necessary, to dip into the Lord’s consecrated portion which should be used only to sustain the ministers in new fields as well as in other places. And this should not be done in a niggardly way. All the inconveniences that the laborers must wrestle with in these new fields should be taken into consideration. The expense of living is greater in some localities than in others.
Selected Messages, Book 2, 209
When you see a young man or a young women who is a promising subject, advance or loan the sum needed, with the idea that it is a loan, not a gift. It would be better to have it thus. Then when it is returned, it can be used to educate others. But this money is not to be taken from the tithe, but from a separate fund secured for that purpose.
An Appeal for Missions, p. 24
Every one who is honored in being a steward of God should carefully guard the tithe fund. The Lord does not sanction the borrowing of this money for other purposes.
Manuscript Releases Volume 7, 135
Those who have charge of our church buildings are to be supplied with the means that is necessary to keep these buildings in good repair. But this money is not to come from the tithe.
Manuscript Releases Volume 1, 191, 192
In the sixth chapter of Acts, we are shown how, when men were to be selected to fill positions in the church, the matter was brought before the Lord, and most earnest prayer was offered for guidance. The widows and fatherless were to be supported by contributions from the church. Their wants were not to be relieved by the church, but by special donations. The tithe was to be consecrated to the Lord, and was always to be used for the support of the ministry. Important Positions in the General Conference, January 24, 1899.)
Review and Herald, December 1, 1896
The tithe is set apart for a special use. It is not to be regarded as a poor fund.
Manuscript Releases Volume 1, 182
The minister who labors should be sustained. But notwithstanding this, those who are officiating in this work see that there is not money in the treasury to pay the minister. They are withdrawing the tithe for other expenses,—to keep up the meeting house necessities or some charity. God is not glorified in any such work. We have to raise our voice against this kind of management.
To whom should tithe go?
Evangelism, 492
The tithe should go to those who labor in word and doctrine, be they men or women.
Welfare Ministry, 277
The tithe is set apart for a special use. It is not to be regarded as a poor fund. It is to be especially devoted to the support of those who are bearing God’s message to the world, and it should not be diverted from this purpose.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, 215
Light has been plainly given that those who minister in our schools, teaching the word of God, explaining the Scriptures, educating the students in the things of God, should be supported by the tithe money.
Testimonies for the Church Volume 6, 215
Instruction has been given me that there is a withholding of the tithe that should be faithfully brought into the Lord’s treasury for the support of ministers and missionaries who are opening the Scriptures to the people and working from house to house.
Echoes from the Field, June 21, 1905
The tithe is sacred, reserved by God for Himself. It is to be brought into His treasury to be used to sustain the gospel laborers in their work.
Manuscript Releases vol. 7. 366
If this money in tithe is paid by the workers into the treasury, why, I ask should not that amount be apportioned to the carrying forward of the medical missionary work?
1 Corinthians 9:13, 14
Do you not know that those men who are employed in the services of the temple get their food from the temple? And that those who tend the altar share with the altar [in the offerings brought?] Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
Are there those in the ministry who should not be paid tithe?
Gospel Workers, 1915. 94, 95
The ministry is becoming enfeebled because men are assuming the responsibility of preaching without gaining the needed preparation for this work. Many have made a mistake in receiving credentials. They will have to take up work to which they are better adapted than the preaching of the word. They are being paid from the tithe, but their efforts are feeble, and they should not continue to be paid from this fund. In many ways the ministry is losing its sacred character.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, 378
No man should be set apart as a teacher of the people while his own teaching or example contradicts the testimony God has given his servants to bear in regard to diet, for this will bring confusion. His disregard of health reform unfits him to stand as the Lord’s messenger.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 3, 553
It would be poor policy to support from the treasury of God those who really mar and injure His work, and who are constantly lowering the standards of Christianity.
Fundamentals of Christian Education, 477
The tithe should not be used to pay anyone for speechifying on political questions. Every teacher, minister, or leader in our ranks who is stirred with a desire to ventilate his opinions on political questions, should be converted by a belief in the truth, or give up his work.
Series A, Number 1, p. 6, 7
There are ministers, and not a few, either, that have carried credentials for years, and yet they do not give evidence of being converted men, either in their personal experience or in their labors. Their labors do not benefit the church, but in many instances are a positive injury. Many of our brethren have expressed themselves to the effect that if their Conference continues to pay money to such [unconverted] ministers, they will withhold their tithes. We do not say that it would be right for individuals to withhold from the Lord that which is His; but, on the other hand, it certainly is very wrong for the conference to give credentials to such men, and it is nothing less than sin to take the Lord’s money to pay for such labor. There must be earnest labor with such men; and if they will not reform, there can be no reason why they should continue to hold credentials.
Does God have workers not paid by and working for the organized structure?
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 9, 170
He will call men from the plow and from other occupations to give the last note of warning to perishing souls.
What if there is misuse of money or apostasy?
Gospel Workers, 226, 227
The tithe is sacred, reserved by God for Himself. It is to be brought into His treasury to be used to sustain the gospel laborers in their work. For a long time the Lord has been robbed because there are those who do not realize that the tithe is God’s reserved portion. Some have been dissatisfied, and have said, “I will not longer pay my tithe; for I have no confidence in the way things are managed at the heart of the work.” But will you rob God because you think the management of the work is not right? Make your complaint, plainly and openly, in the right spirit, to the proper ones. Send in your petitions for things to be adjusted and set in order; but do not withdraw from the work of God, and prove unfaithful, because others are not doing right.
Sermons and Talks Volume 2, 74, 75
You who have been withholding your means from the cause of God, read the book of Malachi and see what is spoken there in regard to tithes and offerings. Cannot you see that it is not best under any circumstances to withhold your tithes and offerings because you are not in harmony with everything that your brethren do? The tithes and offerings are not the property of any man, but are to be used in doing a certain work for God. Unworthy ministers may receive some of the means thus raised, but dare anyone, because of this, withhold from the treasury and brave the curse of God? I dare not.
I pay my tithe gladly and freely, saying, as did David, “Of Thine own have we given Thee.” A selfish withholding from God will tend to poverty in our own souls. Act your part, my brethren and sisters. God loves you, and He stands at the helm. If the conference business is not managed according to the order of the Lord, that is the sin of the erring one. The Lord will not hold you responsible for it if you do what you can to correct the evil. But do not commit sin yourselves by withholding from the Lord His own property. “Cursed be he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully” or negligently.
Does this mean I should support misuse or apostasy?
Gospel Workers, 245
If God pronounces a woe upon those who are called to preach the truth and refuse to obey, a heavier woe rests upon those who take upon them this sacred work without clean hands and pure hearts. As there are woes for those who preach the truth while they are unsanctified in heart and life, so there are woes for those who receive and maintain the unsanctified in the position which they cannot fill.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 1, 261, 262
There are fearful woes for those who preach the truth, but are not sanctified by it, and also for those who consent to receive and maintain the unsanctified to minister to them in word and doctrine.
I do not want to withhold tithe from God, but conscience will not allow me to pay tithe through the regular channels. What does God say to me?
Spalding and Magan Collection, 421
Do not worry lest some means shall go direct to those who are trying to do missionary work in a quiet and effective way. All the means is not to be handled by one agency or organization. There is much business to be done conscientiously for the cause of God.
Spalding and Magan Collection, 498
Send no statement of the situation through our religious papers; because it will not be honored. Send direct to the people. God’s ways are not to be counterworked by man’s ways. There are those who have means, and who will give large and small sums. Have this money come direct to your destitute portion of the vineyard. The Lord has not specified any regular channel through which means should pass.
Manuscript Releases Volume 20, 143
I want my brethren to begin to understand some things for themselves. God alone, by the quickening, vivifying influence of His Holy Spirit, can enable men to distinguish between the sacred and the common. God alone can make men understand that working on regular lines has led to irregular practices. God alone can make men’s minds as they should be. The time has come when we should hear less in favor of the regular lines. If we can get away from the regular lines into something which, though irregular, is after God’s order, it may cut away something of the irregular working which has led away from Bible principles.
Spalding and Magan Collection, 175, 176
God grant that the voices which have been so quickly raised to say that all the money invested in the work must go through the appointed channel at Battle Creek, [General Conference headquarters at the time this was written] shall not be heard. The people to whom God has given His means are amenable to Him alone. It is their privilege to give direct aid and assistance to missions. It is because of the misappropriation of means that the Southern field has no better showing than it has today.
Spalding and Magan Collection, 215
I have myself appropriated my tithe to the most needy cases brought to my notice. I have been instructed to do this; and as the money is not withheld from the Lord’s treasury, it is not a matter that should be commented upon; for it will necessitate my making known these matters, which I do not desire to do, because it is not best.…
Some cases have been kept before me for years, and I have supplied their needs from the tithe, as God has instructed me to do. And if any person shall say to me, Sister White, will you appropriate my tithe where you know it is most needed, I shall say, Yes, I will; and I have done so. I commend those sisters who have placed their tithe where it is most needed to help to do a work that is being left undone; and if this matter is given publicity, it will create knowledge which would better be left as it is. I do not care to give publicity to this work which the Lord has appointed me to do, and others to do.
I send this matter to you so that you shall not make a mistake. Circumstances alter cases. I would not advise that any should make a practice of gathering up tithe money. But for years there have now and then been persons who have lost confidence in the appropriation of the tithe who have placed their tithe in my hands, and said that if I did not take it they would themselves appropriate it to the families of the most needy minister they could find. I have taken the money, given a receipt for it, and told them how it was appropriated.
Whose treasury is tithe and offerings to be placed in?
Atlantic Union Gleaner, December 14, 1904
He places His treasures in the hand of humanity, but requires that one-tenth shall be faithfully laid aside for His work. He teaches us the lesson that He requires this portion to be placed in His treasury. It is to be rendered to Him as His own; it is sacred, and is to be used for sacred purposes, for the support of those who carry the message of salvation to all parts of the world. He reserves this portion, that means may be flowing into His treasure-house, and that the light of truth may be carried to those who are nigh and those afar off.
By faithfully obeying this requirement, we prove that we realize that all belongs to God. And has not the Lord a right to demand this much of us? Did he not give us His only begotten Son because He loved us and desired to save us from death? And shall not our gratitude offerings flow into the Lord’s treasury, to be drawn there from to advance His kingdom in the earth? God is the owner of all our goods, and shall not gratitude to Him prompt us to make free-will offerings and thank offerings, thus acknowledging His owner ship of soul, body, spirit, and property?
Review and Herald, December 8, 1896
He claims the tithe as His own, and it should ever be regarded as a sacred reserve, to be placed in His treasury for the benefit of His cause, for the advancement of His work, for sending His messengers into “regions beyond,” even to the uttermost parts of the earth.
If the treasury belongs to God, then what qualifies a place or work as His treasury?
Pamphlet 097, Testimony for the Church at Battle Creek, 16
Your stinted offerings are brought to God almost unwillingly, while, in self-gratification, means are spent lavishly. How much of the wages earned finds its way into the treasury of God to aid in the advancement of His work in saving souls?
Pamphlet 166, Special on Tithing, 6
He teaches us the lesson that He requires this portion to be placed in His treasury. It is to be rendered to Him as His own; it is sacred, and is to be used for sacred purposes, for the support of those who carry the message of salvation to all parts of the world. He reserves this portion, that means many be flowing into His treasure-house, and that the light of truth may be carried to those who are nigh and those who are afar off.
How many storehouses are there in this world?
Pamphlet 004, An Appeal for Missions, p. 4
There who are truly converted are called to do a work which requires money and consecration. The obligation which binds us to place our names on the church roll holds us responsible to work to the utmost of our ability for God. He calls for undivided service, for the entire devotion of heart, soul, mind, and strength. Christ has brought us into church capacity, that he may engage and engross all our capabilities in devoted service for the salvation of others. Anything short of this is opposition to the work. There are only two places in the universe where we can deposit our treasures,—in God's storehouse or in Satan’s; and all that is not devoted to God’s service is counted on Satan’s side, and goes to strengthen his cause.
Are pastors the only messengers of truth?
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, pp. 315, 316 (1900)
The silent messengers that are placed in the homes of the people through the work of the canvasser will strengthen the gospel ministry in every way; for the Holy Spirit will impress minds as they read the books, just as He impresses the minds of those who listen to the preaching of the word. The same ministry of angels attends the books that contain the truth as attends the work of the minister.
Review and Herald, December 19, 1878
The papers and tracts can go where the living preacher cannot go, and where if he could go he would have no access to the people, because of their prejudice against the truth.
Review and Herald, December 19, 1878
The great lack of men to go from place to place and preach the word may be in a great degree supplied by tracts and papers….
The Southern Watchman, January 23, 1902
These silent messengers that we have accomplish a work which the ministry can not do.
Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, 205, 206
As the preaching of Noah warned, tested, and proved the inhabitants of the world before the flood of waters destroyed them from off the face of the earth, so the truth of God for these last days is doing a similar work of warning, testing, and proving the world. The publications which go forth from the Office bear the signet of the Eternal. They are being scattered all through the land, and are deciding the destiny of souls.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 4, 472
But while some go forth to preach he calls upon others to answer His claims upon them for tithes and offerings with which to support the ministry and to spread the printed truth all over the land.
Should the workers let the people know how things are managed?
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1733
The Lord desires His Holy Spirit to come into this meeting. He declares that every vestige of sharpness in dealing must be removed, for He hates it. No sharpness is to be exercised toward His servants who are working for Him, bringing the tithe into the treasury that His cause may be sustained. God’s treasury is to be supplied by the tithe, which is to be regarded as a sacred fund. It is God’s, and it is to be liberally given, that the work may be sustained. Those in responsible places are to act in such a way that the people will have firm confidence in them. These men should not be afraid to open to the light of day everything in the management of the work.
Testimonies for the Church, Volume 3, p. 49
There is not a class of people in the world who are more willing to sacrifice of their means to advance the cause than are Seventh-day Adventist. If the ministers do not utterly discourage them by their indolence and inefficiency, and by their lack of spirituality, they will generally respond to any appeal that may be made that commands itself to their judgment and consciences. But they want to see fruit. And it is right that the brethren in New York should demand fruit of their ministers. What have they done? What are they doing?
The Kress Collection, 120
The churches must arouse. The members must awake out of sleep and begin to inquire, How is the money which we put into the treasury being used? The Lord desires that a close search be made. Are all satisfied with the history of the work for the past fifteen years? Where is the evidence of the co-working with God? Where has been heard throughout the churches the prayer for the help of the Holy Spirit? Dissatisfied and disheartened, we turn away from the scene.
Our churches and institutions must return to where they were before the backsliding commenced, when they began trusting in man and making flesh their arm. Have we not seen enough of human wisdom? Shall we not now seek God in earnestness and simplicity, and serve him with heart and mind and strength?
Can I withhold tithe for a personal emergency?
Gospel Workers, 1915, 225
Let none feel at liberty to retain their tithe, to use according to their own judgment. They are not to use it for themselves in an emergency, nor to apply it as they see fit, even in what they may regard as the Lord’s work.
Is the tithe the limit of my giving?
The Signs of the Times, January 21, 1886
“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed Thee? In tithes and offerings.” There has been a fearful withholding from God, and, as a result, the withdrawal of His special blessing. We should not look upon the tithe as the limit of our liberality. The Jews were required to bring to God numerous offerings besides the tithe; and shall not we, who enjoy the blessings of the gospel, do as much to sustain the cause of God as was done in the former, less-favored dispensation? As the work for this time is extending in the earth, the calls for help are constantly increasing. And in view of this the Lord commands us, “Bring ye all the tithes into the store-house, that there may be meat in mine house,” that is, a surplus of means in the treasury, that the work of God in its various branches may be amply sustained.
Is it wise to let tithe obligations accumulate?
Counsels on Stewardship, 96
Many have long neglected to deal honestly with their Maker. Failing to lay aside the tithe weekly, they have let it accumulate, until it amounts to a large sum, and now they are very reluctant to make the matter right. This back tithe they keep, using it as their own. But it is God’s property, which they have refused to put into His treasury.
Counsels on Stewardship 67
A tithe of all our increase is the Lord’s. He has reserved it to Himself, to be employed for religious purposes. It is holy. Nothing less than this has He accepted in any disposition. A neglect or postponement of this duty, will provoke the divine displeasure.
If I have robbed God do I need to make restitution?
Counsels on Stewardship, 87
Hasten, my brethren and sisters, to bring to God a faithful tithe, and to bring Him also a willing thank offering. There are many who will not be blessed till they make restitution of the tithe which they have withheld. God is waiting for you to redeem the past. The hand of the holy law is laid upon every soul who enjoys God’s benefits. Let those who have kept back their tithe make an accurate reckoning, and bring to the Lord that of which they have robbed His work. Make restitution, and bring the Lord peace offerings. “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.” If you acknowledge that you have done wrong in misappropriating His goods, and freely and fully repent, He will forgive your transgression.
The Signs of the Times, January 6, 1890
Let those who have means give of their means to the glory of God. Let them show that they appreciate the gift of God’s dear Son, that they love Him with undivided affection, and will manifest their faith in His mission and work by replenishing the treasury of God. The means that God intrusts to men is for the forwarding of His work in the earth. God’s word appeals to you to give. There are souls to be saved. There are those who know not the truth, and they must be enlightened by missionary effort. How many have withheld their tithe?
How many have withheld themselves from the service of God? When those who have for years withheld their tithes become convicted, and reckon up and see how large is the sum they owe to God, they must not become discouraged and do nothing to diminish the debt. If you can, pay the whole amount, but if you cannot, do the best you can, begin to pay tithes from the first of 1890. Confess to the Lord your robbery toward Him, and give yourselves in full surrender as an offering to the Lord. Tell the Lord that if He will place it in your power, you will meet your obligation to Him, and render back to Him His own.
What is the consequence when we withhold tithe and offerings?
The Home Missionary, April 4, 1895
The preaching of the gospel is God’s appointed way for converting the souls of men. Men must hear in order to be saved. They cannot hear without a preacher, and the preacher must be sent. This makes it necessary to have funds in the treasury in order to provide means whereby the missionary may reach destitute fields. In the light of this fact, how can those who profess to follow Christ, rob God of His own intrusted talents in tithes and offerings? Is it not refusing bread to starving souls? To withhold the means which God has claimed as His own, whereby He has made provision that souls shall be saved, will surely bring a curse upon those who thus rob God. Souls for whom Christ has died, are denied the privilege of hearing the truth, because men refuse to carry out the measures which God has provided for the enlightenment of the lost.
Pamphlet 039, An Important Testimony to our Brethren and Sisters in New York, 5
Do these men know that they are robbing God every day of their lives? Do they know that they are devoting their time, their physical and mental talents, in laying upon the foundation, hay, wood, and stubble? All the improvements of years will be consumed with the fires of the last day, and if they themselves are saved, it will be only as by fire. Their whole life work is in ashes. The reward that they might have gained if they had been faithful stewards, is lost, eternally lost. A host of souls that they might have saved are not saved, because of their neglect.