The Tithe: God’s Claim on Our Resources
By: AJ Dumpasan
Title: The Tithe: God’s Claim on Our Resources
Text: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty” (Malachi 3:10).
Based on: Ellen White’s Counsels on Stewardship, Chapter 4
Introduction
Opening Illustration:
Imagine a trusted steward who is given charge over a rich man’s estate. The steward is required to return a portion of the profits to the owner while using the rest wisely. Similarly, God has entrusted us with resources and calls us to return the tithe, acknowledging Him as the source of all blessings.
In Chapter 4 of Counsels on Stewardship, Ellen White emphasizes the sacredness of the tithe and its role in our spiritual growth and the advancement of God’s work.
Key Question:
What is the significance of tithing, and how does it impact our relationship with God?
1. Tithing Acknowledges God’s Ownership
Ellen White’s Insight:
- “The tithe is the Lord’s. Here the same form of expression is employed as in the law of the Sabbath. ‘The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God’” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 81).
- The tithe is holy, set apart for God, and a recognition that He is the ultimate owner of all we possess.
Biblical Foundation:
- Leviticus 27:30: “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.”
- Returning the tithe is a declaration that God is the source of every blessing.
Practical Application:
- Prioritize tithing as a non-negotiable act of faith and worship.
- Recognize that withholding the tithe is withholding what belongs to God.
Example:
- Share a testimony of someone who experienced spiritual growth and blessings through faithful tithing.
2. Tithing Supports God’s Work
Ellen White’s Insight:
- “The special system of tithing was founded upon a principle which is as enduring as the law of God” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 82).
- The tithe is used to support the ministry, maintain the church, and advance God’s mission on earth.
Biblical Foundation:
- Numbers 18:21: “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting.”
- The tithe ensures that the work of the gospel is sustained and expanded.
Practical Application:
- Faithfully return the tithe to the storehouse (the church) to support pastors, evangelism, and church ministries.
- View tithing as a partnership with God in advancing His kingdom.
Example:
- Highlight a church or mission project made possible through faithful tithing.
3. Tithing Brings Spiritual and Material Blessings
Ellen White’s Insight:
- “If all the tithes were brought into the storehouse, God’s treasury would be full” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 84).
- God promises to bless those who are faithful in returning the tithe, providing for their needs and multiplying their blessings.
Biblical Foundation:
- Malachi 3:10: “Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”
- Tithing is an act of faith that opens the door to God’s abundant provision.
Practical Application:
- Trust God’s promise to provide for your needs when you prioritize tithing.
- Reflect on how tithing strengthens your faith and deepens your reliance on God.
Example:
- Share a story of someone who tested God’s promise in Malachi 3:10 and experienced His faithfulness.
Conclusion
Key Takeaway:
Tithing is a sacred responsibility and privilege. It acknowledges God’s ownership, supports His work, and brings blessings to both the giver and the church.
Closing Appeal:
- Let us recommit to honoring God with our tithes, trusting His promises and embracing the blessings that come from faithful stewardship.
- Remember, the tithe is not a loss but a seed sown into God’s kingdom, reaping eternal rewards.
Closing Illustration:
- Share Ellen White’s quote: “Those who are truly converted will regard themselves as God’s almoners and will cheerfully render to Him that which is His own” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 85).
Prayer:
“Lord, thank You for entrusting us with resources and calling us to return a portion to You. Teach us to be faithful in tithing, recognizing Your ownership and trusting in Your provision. May our giving advance Your work and deepen our relationship with You. Amen.”
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