Written by: John Sernaque
Stewardship
CCh - Counsels for the Church Chapter 48—Counsels on Stewardship- Tithing Is Ordained by God
Voluntary offerings and the tithe constitute the revenue of the gospel. Of the means which is entrusted to man, God claims a certain portion—a tithe. {CCh 274.1}
All should remember that God’s claims upon us underlie every other claim. He gives to us bountifully, and the contract which He has made with man is that a tenth of his possessions shall be returned to God. The Lord graciously entrusts to His stewards His treasures, but of the tenth He says: This is Mine. Just in proportion as God has given His property to man, so man is to return to God a faithful tithe of all his substance. This distinct arrangement was made by Jesus Christ Himself. {CCh 274.2}
The truth for this time must be carried into the dark corners of the earth, and this work may begin at home. The followers of Christ should not live selfish lives; but, imbued with the Spirit of Christ, they should work in harmony with Him. {CCh 274.3}
Tithing here is referred to as a contract. A contract is binding on all who are a party to it. This contract states that man is to return a tenth of all his possessions to God. God allows us to receive the whole amount, in trust, with the understanding that we will honor our contract and return a faithful tithe to God. It is referred to as a “faithful” tithe. So, tithing requires faith. Do we have faith in Jesus Christ? Well, it was Jesus Christ Himself that made this arrangement. As followers of Christ, we are to work in harmony with Him. This work begins at home, right here, and is also to go out to the dark corners of the world.
Our Father, God Almighty,
We thank You once again for giving us this privilege, honor, and opportunity to be able to return Your portion in tithes that You have so graciously entrusted to us. You have told us that this portion is Yours, so we cheerfully and in harmony with You will work to fulfill our contract, that Your work of salvation may reach the dark corners of this earth. May You please bless our tithes and offerings for Your treasury. Save us and forgive us of our sins, and we thank You for giving us the victory over sin. We thank You for hearing and answering our prayers, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
