We believe that God is the owner of the world. “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psalm 24:1. He has appointed us as His stewards. Every believer has the privilege and duty to give the tithe of all the property and income with which God has blessed him.
The tithe serves to support the messengers who serve in the work of God and to spread the gospel. Since the tithe is God’s property, the Lord regards the withholding of it as fraud. Genesis 28:22; Nehemiah 13:10-12; Malachi 3:6-12; Matthew 23:23; Hebrews 7:4-9; 1 Corinthians 9:13, 14.
“God’s plan in the tithing system is beautiful in its simplicity and equality. All may take hold of it in faith and courage, for it is divine in its origin. In it are combined simplicity and utility, and it does not require depth of learning to understand and execute it. All may feel that they can act a part in carrying forward the precious work of salvation. Every man, woman, and youth may become a treasurer for the Lord, and may be an agent to meet the demands upon the treasury..” -Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, pp. 388, 389.
“Besides the tithe the Lord demands the first fruits of all our increase.” -Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 384.
Other offerings, such as missionary offerings, thank offerings, Sabbath school offerings, offerings for special purposes, and offerings for the poor, serve in the proclamation and support of the gospel work.
With these gifts we express our deep thankfulness for God’s blessings and favor. Faithfulness and conscientiousness in paying our tithes and offerings make it possible for us to grow in love, help us overcome selfishness and greed, and will be rewarded with Heaven’s blessing. 2 Corinthians 9:6, 7; Acts 20:35.