1 CHRONICLES 29:14 “But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.”
ABSTRACT
This article delves into tithing as a profound spiritual discipline that acknowledges God’s sovereign rule over every aspect of life, tracing its origins from creation’s dawn through ancient reforms to its vital role in sustaining divine work and preparing the community for Christ’s triumphant return. Drawing on sacred scriptures and inspired writings, it reveals how returning the tithe not only honors God’s ownership but also unlocks heavenly blessings, fosters heartfelt trust, and unites us in faithful partnership with His eternal purposes, transforming mere giving into a vibrant testimony of gratitude and obedience.
GOD’S OWNERSHIP: TITHE’S MIGHTY PLEDGE!
Tithing is more than a financial obligation; it is a spiritual practice rooted in the acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. As Daniel 4:25 reminds us, “…till thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.” Ellen G. White affirms this foundational truth in her writings, declaring, “A tithe of all our increase is the Lord’s. He has reserved it to Himself, to be employed for religious purposes” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 67, 1940). Psalm 24:1 proclaims, “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Through inspired counsel, we learn further, “The directions given by God to His ancient people in reference to tithes and offerings are of still higher significance to us” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 404, 1875). This timeless principle reflects God’s ownership over all creation, urging us to return a portion of His blessings to demonstrate our trust and obedience. How does Scripture call us to embrace this stewardship in practical obedience?
TITHING: A CALL TO FAITHFUL STEWARDSHIP
Malachi 3:10-12 provides a profound promise: “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.” This directive underscores the importance of returning the full tithe to God, not for personal use but for His work. Sr. White affirms in Testimonies for the Church (Vol. 6, p. 386), “Had God’s plan been followed, means would now be flowing into His treasury; and funds to enable ministers to enter new fields…would be abundant.” In Proverbs 3:9-10, we read, “Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” A prophetic voice once wrote, “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” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 81, 1940). Obedience to this principle reflects faith in God’s provision and ensures the ministry’s effectiveness. Tithing is not just about financial giving; it is about trust. When we return our tithe, we recognize God’s ultimate ownership and affirm our dependence on Him. This practice aligns our hearts with His purpose and opens the way for His blessings to flow abundantly. What ancient roots ground this call in the very beginning of time?
BIBLICAL ROOTS OF TITHING
The concept of tithing originates in the Garden of Eden. Genesis 2:15-17 recounts God’s instruction to Adam and Eve to refrain from eating the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, symbolizing His ownership over all creation. Sr. White explains in Testimonies for the Church (Vol. 6, p. 386), “The tree in Eden was placed as a constant reminder of His ownership of all.” In the same way, tithing serves as a reminder of our Creator’s sovereignty and our role as faithful stewards. This principle is reinforced in Deuteronomy 18:1-2, where God commands that the Levites, who had no inheritance in Israel, be sustained through the tithe. Numbers 18:20-24 further emphasizes that the tithe is their inheritance, ensuring that those dedicated to God’s service can focus entirely on spiritual matters. Leviticus 27:30 declares, “And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s: it is holy unto the Lord.” In The Desire of Ages, a passage reminds us, “From the earliest times the tithe was set apart for the support of the worship and work of God” (The Desire of Ages, p. 572, 1898). This sacred system was not only practical but also deeply spiritual, reflecting God’s care for His people and His work. How did neglecting this system unfold in Israel’s history, and what reforms restored it?
LESSONS FROM NEHEMIAH’S REFORMS
Nehemiah’s leadership highlights the consequences of neglecting tithing. Nehemiah 13:10-12 reveals how the lack of tithes forced the Levites to abandon their duties, prompting Nehemiah to ask, “Why is the house of God forsaken?” He restored order by appointing trustworthy men to oversee the storehouse, ensuring that God’s work could continue unhindered. Sr. White echoes this urgency, stating, “God requires this portion to be placed in His treasury…for the support of those who carry the message of salvation” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 386). Genesis 14:20 records, “And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” Through inspired counsel, we are told, “The tithe is the Lord’s provision for the support of the ministry” (Gospel Workers, p. 355, 1915). This historical example serves as a timeless reminder of our responsibility to sustain God’s work through faithful stewardship. In what ways does tithing mirror the very heart of divine love?
REFLECTING GOD’S LOVE THROUGH TITHING
Tithing is a tangible expression of God’s love and care. By instituting this system, God provides for His workers and demonstrates His faithfulness to His people. Malachi 3:10 assures us that when we bring our tithes, “I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground.” This promise illustrates God’s commitment to protect and bless those who trust Him. Sr. White writes, “Through obedience, God’s people would be channels of blessing to the world” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 530). The inspired pen declares, “Systematic benevolence does not consist in occasional or spurious gifts, but in a systematic, cheerful, and consistent offering of a portion of our income” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 73, 1940). Luke 6:38 promises, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” By faithfully returning what belongs to Him, we reflect His character of love, provision, and faithfulness. This act not only sustains His work but also fosters spiritual growth and gratitude within us. How can we apply these truths in our daily lives and communal life together?
PERSONAL AND COMMUNAL APPLICATIONS
On a personal level, tithing challenges me to evaluate my priorities and trust in God’s provision. It reminds me that all I have is a gift from Him. When I return a faithful tithe, I experience the joy of partnering in His work and the assurance that He will meet my needs. As a community, we are called to support one another in fulfilling this sacred duty. Together, we can ensure that God’s message reaches every corner of the earth. Nehemiah’s reforms inspire us to act with integrity, ensuring that the resources entrusted to us are used for His glory. 2 Corinthians 9:7 exhorts, “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” A passage from Steps to Christ reminds us, “In the days of Israel, God’s plan of systematic benevolence relieved the poor, and that is why He has given us the same plan today” (Steps to Christ, p. 81, 1892). Hebrews 7:2 notes, “To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace.” What ultimate purpose does this stewardship serve in light of eternity?
PREPARING FOR CHRIST’S RETURN
Tithing is more than a practice; it is preparation. By aligning our lives with God’s principles, we ready ourselves for His kingdom. Matthew 23:23 warns, “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.” In Prophets and Kings, we read, “The Lord has made the proclamation of the gospel message dependent upon the cooperation of the church, and it should be a study with all the officers and members of the church how they can work most successfully” (Prophets and Kings, p. 188, 1917). Acts 20:35 teaches, “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Are we faithfully stewarding the blessings He has entrusted to us? Are we supporting the spread of His message? As we reflect on these questions, let us remember the promise of Malachi 3:12: “And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts.” May our faithfulness in tithing be a testament to God’s love, preparing us and others for the glorious day of Christ’s return.
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SELF-REFLECTION
How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into these truths on stewardship, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?
How can we adapt these themes on tithing to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?
What are the most common misconceptions about tithing in our community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?
In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of faithful giving and God’s ultimate provision?
PEOPLE OF THE BOOK 
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