Gramps,

Is tithing  a law or a commandment?

Danny

Answer

Danny,

The concept of tithing is not new; it has its roots in the Old Testament. The first mention of tithing can be found in Genesis 14:18-20, where Abraham gives a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the king of Salem. This act of giving is seen as recognizing God’s sovereignty and blessings. The practice was later classified in the Law of Moses, where it became a requirement for the Israelites to support the Levitical priesthood and the temple services.

In Malachi 3:10, the Lord commands, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house.” This scripture emphasizes the importance of tithing as a means of sustaining the spiritual needs of the community. The promise that follows—”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”—highlights the blessings associated with faithful tithing, reinforcing the idea that tithing is a test of faith and obedience.

While the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing as the Old Testament does, it does emphasize the principles of generosity and giving. Jesus teaches in Luke 20:25 to “render unto Cæsar the things which be Cæsar’s and unto God the things which be God’s.” This statement points to the importance of fulfilling one’s obligations to both earthly authorities and divine commandments.

Moreover, in the Book of Mormon, which members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints regard as scripture, the Savior reiterates the importance of tithing in 3 Nephi 24:8-10, echoing the words of Malachi. This continuity across scriptures reinforces the belief that tithing is a divine commandment that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries.

Tithing is fundamentally a law of obedience. In Doctrine and Covenants 119:4, the Lord states, “And after that, those who have thus been tithed shall pay one-tenth of all their interest annually; and this shall be a standing law unto them forever.” This commandment is not merely a suggestion; it is a divine directive that members are expected to follow. The act of paying tithing is a demonstration of faith and trust in God’s promises, reinforcing the idea that obedience to God’s commandments leads to spiritual blessings.

Tithing also embodies the principle of sacrifice. In Doctrine and Covenants 64:23, the Lord refers to the tithing of His people as a day of sacrifice. This perspective encourages members to view tithing not just as a financial transaction but as a spiritual offering that requires personal sacrifice. Elder Bruce R. McConkie emphasized that “sacrifice and consecration are inseparably intertwined,” suggesting that the willingness to give up a portion of one’s income is a reflection of one’s commitment to God and His work.

The law of consecration, which calls for members to dedicate their time, talents, and resources to the Lord’s work, is closely related to tithing. By paying tithing, members practice the principles of consecration, demonstrating their willingness to support the Church and its mission. This act of giving fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility, as the funds collected are used to support various Church programs, humanitarian efforts, and the building of temples.

The principle of prioritizing tithing in one’s budget is crucial. Gramps previously advised, “The tithing check should be the first check written,” emphasizing that paying tithing should be a priority rather than an afterthought. This practice not only reflects obedience but also instills a sense of discipline in financial management.

In times of financial hardship, members may struggle with the decision to pay tithing. It is essential to remember that the Lord understands individual circumstances. The Church provides resources and support for those in need, including welfare programs and assistance through the bishop’s storehouse. Members are encouraged to communicate openly with their bishops about their financial situations, as bishops can offer guidance and support tailored to individual needs.

Ultimately, tithing is about more than just financial contributions; it is about building a legacy of faith and trust in God. By consistently paying tithing, members cultivate a spirit of generosity and gratitude, recognizing that all they have comes from the Lord. This perspective fosters a deeper relationship with God and a greater understanding of His blessings in their lives.

Tithing is a profound principle that encompasses obedience, sacrifice, and consecration. It serves as a spiritual practice that not only supports the Church but also enriches the lives of its members. By understanding the scriptural foundations and spiritual significance of tithing, members can approach this commandment with faith and confidence, knowing that their sacrifices will lead to blessings both in this life and the next.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember that tithing is not merely a financial obligation but a sacred covenant with God. By embracing this principle, we can cultivate a spirit of generosity, strengthen our faith, and contribute to the building of God’s kingdom on earth.

Gramps

Gramps,

What’s the purpose of tithing settlements?

Doug

Answer

Doug,

Tithing is a foundational principle within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving as both a financial commitment and a spiritual practice. One significant aspect of this practice is tithing settlement, which occurs annually and offers church members an opportunity to reflect on their contributions, reaffirm their commitment to God, and engage in meaningful conversations with their bishops.

Before exploring tithing settlement, it is important to understand the principle of tithing itself. According to the Doctrine and Covenants 119:4, members are commanded to pay “one-tenth of all their interest annually.” This means that tithing is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate with spiritual significance. Members of The Church believe that fulfilling this obligation brings blessings from the Lord, as emphasized in Malachi 3:10, which promises,

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse… 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.

Tithing settlement provides an essential opportunity for members to review their contributions over the past year. This process ensures that donations are accurately recorded, allowing individuals to confirm that they have fulfilled their commitment to pay a full tithe—defined as 10% of their increase. Tithing settlement allows members to “verify that they are correctly recorded” and to review all personal statistics related to their contributions. This review is particularly important as it reflects members’ accountability not only to the Church but to God.

Another crucial aspect of tithing settlement is the declaration of full tithe payer status. This declaration is vital because many blessings, including the ability to obtain a temple recommend, hinge on being recognized as a full tithe payer. The opportunity to declare this status to their bishop reinforces the spiritual significance of tithing. Having the settlement at the end of the year corresponds logically with tax season, enabling members to verify their contributions for tax deduction purposes.

Tithing is not merely a financial transaction; it is a spiritual practice that fosters accountability to God. Members are encouraged to view tithing as a reflection of their faith and devotion. Tithing is not merely a financial obligation, but a principle of faith and trust in the Lord’s promises. This spiritual accountability teaches members to prioritize their financial commitments in a way that aligns with their faith.

Additionally, the act of paying tithing is associated with numerous blessings that extend beyond financial gains. Many members testify that paying tithing leads to spiritual, emotional, and relational benefits, reinforcing the principle that giving can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment. The reciprocal nature of tithing—giving and receiving—creates a sense of community support within the Church.

Tithing settlement also encourages personal reflection. As members sit down with their bishops, they engage in a meaningful dialogue about their spiritual journey and commitment to the Church. This time of reflection can lead to greater understanding of one’s financial priorities and how they align with one’s faith.

Furthermore, the act of tithing contributes to community support and welfare. The funds collected through tithing are used to support various Church activities, humanitarian efforts, and local initiatives. This communal aspect of tithing demonstrates how individual contributions collectively strengthen the church community and aid those in need.

Tithing settlement serves as a vital practice within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It provides members with the opportunity to review their contributions, declare their status as full tithe payers, and reflect on their spiritual accountability. Ultimately, tithing is not just a financial obligation but a meaningful practice that fosters personal growth, community support, and a deeper connection with God. As members engage in tithing settlement, they reinforce their commitment to the principles of faith and stewardship, paving the way for continued spiritual growth and blessings in their lives.

Here are some other Q&A’s from Ask Gramps that might help:

What is the reason for tithing settlement in the Mormon Church?

Why should I pay tithing when I can barely afford to keep the electricity on?

Does my tithing really go to the Lord’s use?

Gramps

Hello Gramps

Can you please tell me what happens to the money that results from tithing in the UK? Is it kept in the UK in whole or in part to be used by the Church for UK expenditure?

David

Answer

Dear David,

All tithing donations are to be transmitted directly to Church Headquarters.  The Council on the Disposition of the Tithes, composed of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve and the Presiding Bishopric, have been given the responsibility to determine how these sacred funds are to be disbursed.  This council makes these decisions as they are inspired to do so by the Lord.  The Lord instructed Joseph Smith on this in D&C 120:1

Verily, thus saith the Lord, the time is now come, that it shall be disposed of by a council, composed of the First Presidency of my Church, and of the bishop and his council, and by my high council; and by mine own voice unto them, saith the Lord. Even so. Amen.

Tithing funds are always used for the Lord’s purposes—to build and maintain temples and meetinghouses, to sustain missionary work,  to educate Church members, and to carry on the work of the Lord throughout the world.  These funds are sacred and care is given as to how they are expended.  In April Conference each year there is a report from the Church Auditing Department verifying that after receiving the Council’s authorization, Church departments have expended funds consistent with approved budgets and in accordance with Church policies and procedures.

In some areas/countries of the world, tithing funds collected within that area, are not sufficient to cover all the expenditures authorized by the Council for that area.  The actual funds collected may remain in that area to cover authorized expenditures.  In areas where there is a shortage, funds would be transmitted from Church Headquarters.  The Church does not report on where tithing collected does not cover authorized expenditures so it would be impossible to determine the situation in the  United Kingdom.  It takes a large amount of funds to maintain Temples, Churches and other buildings located there, as well as funding missionary and other Church programs.

The important thing to remember is that the expenditure of tithing funds are carefully watched and controlled.  Anyone having been in leadership positions is well aware of this.   Great blessings have been promised to those who pay their tithing faithfully.  Many testimonies have been given where the windows of heaven have been opened and blessings poured out to the faithful tithe payers.

Gramps

Gramps,

My wife and I stopped paying our tithing for about two years. We were not inactive, we just didn’t pay it. We knew we needed to and so 3 months we began paying it and have been very faithful in paying it since. But ever since we started paying it, things are going wrong. We seem to be in financial ruin and there is a lot of stress with other things now. Why is it that before we paid out tithing, things seemed easier. Now that we are, nothing seems to be going right. We are not receiving answers to our prayers and we don’t feel we are receiving the blessings we need.

Tyler

Answer

Dear Tyler,

Perhaps the difficulties that you are now going through are the specific blessings that you now need. Do you think that those who obey the Lord’s commandments spend the rest of their lives on a soft feather bed? The very purpose of this life is to overcome difficulties. How could faith ever be developed if there were no need to trust in the Lord because there were no opposition to righteousness? The Lord said—

For he will give unto the faithful line upon line, precept upon precept; and I will try you and prove you herewith.

 

And whoso layeth down his life in my cause, for my name’s sake, shall find it again, even life eternal.

 

Therefore, be not afraid of your enemies, for I have decreed in my heart, saith the Lord, that I will prove you in all things, whether you will abide in my covenant, even unto death, that you may be found worthy.

 

For if ye will not abide in my covenant ye are not worthy of me (D&C 98:12-15).

You have applied a very short term measuring stick to the promise of blessings for obedience to principle. You didn’t pay tithing for two years, and now you have paid it for about three months, and you believe that you should be sitting on a cloud. Be faithful in obedience to the Lord’s commands. What did the Lord say to Cain?

If thou doest well, thou shalt be accepted. And if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door (Moses 5:23).

The Lord is talking about being accepted into His kingdom for obedience to commandment or to have sin lie at the door (perhaps dressed in the luxuries of life) for disobedience. Pay your tithing and take your lumps!

Gramps

Dear gramps,

Do we have to pay tithing from gift cards? For example, if someone gets me a £20 gift card then should I be paying £2 tithing? I know it’s not physical money but it’s still money being spent on a card.

Renata

Answer

Renata,

I appreciate your conscientiousness to obey the Lord and tithe on all your income.  But I’m afraid I have no counsel to give you on this matter.  The general authorities of the past couple of decades have made it a point to be fairly hands-off when counseling on the principle of tithing because it is supposed to be

“Between you and the Lord, and no one else.”

So, I shouldn’t give you any more advice on such outliers as gift cards.  When wondering about the less common sources of increase such as this, you’ll really have to just ponder and pray about it yourself.

As long as you do so with honesty and sincerity before the Lord, I’m sure you’ll make the right decision.

Gramps

Question

Gramps,

Answer

Hello John,

The Church offers a variety of self-reliance courses to better ourselves, one of which is called “Personal Finances for Self-Reliance”. This course should be taught locally in your area along with other members in your Stake. There you can learn a variety of skills that can better address your individual personal circumstances. They will discuss a variety of topics such as:

– Creating a Budget
– Sticking to a Budget
– Understanding Debt
etc.

I would contact your Bishop to figure out when the next meeting will be held in your Stake. They typically run a couple times a year. In the meantime you are welcome to read the manual now in advance to give you a head start and begin learning solid financial principles immediately: Personal Finances for Self-Reliance

Warm Regards,

Gramps

Hey Gramps!

Could you explain why the LDS Church asks for 10% of members income considering what is written in the Book of Mormon chapter 8:32-33.

 32 Yea, it shall come in a day when there shall be churches built up that shall say: Come unto me, and for your money you shall be forgiven of your sins.

 33 O ye wicked and perverse and stiffnecked people, why have ye built up churches unto yourselves to get gain? Why have ye transfigured the holy word of God, that ye might bring damnation upon your souls? Behold, look ye unto the revelations of God; for behold, the time cometh at that day when all these things must be fulfilled.

I’m confused.  Many thanks.

Shell

Answer

Dear Shell,

The scriptural importance and benefits of a person’s paying tithes and offerings, are well-established (see. e.g, Malachi 3; Luke 21:1-4; D&C 64:23; D&C 85:3).  That, in this dispensation, it is the Church’s prerogative to receive and administer those tithes, seems equally clear (see D&C 119; D&C 120; D&C 97).

Mormon 8:32-33 does not strike me as being directly applicable to the LDS Church (or any church, for that matter), unless one can first establish at least one of the following:

1.  That the church purports to offer forgiveness of sins in exchange for nothing more or less than monetary payment;

2.  That the church has been built up for the specific purpose of getting gain; or

3.  That the church has “transfigured the holy word of God”.

I do not believe that any of those three conditions applies to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gramps

Gramps,

 I have asked many questions of you. Some you answered, some not. This very important question affects a lot of people.  I try so hard to follow D&C 119 and Section 83.  A lot anonymously (not bragging). But my inspiration leads me to think the Church could help us prepare. The leaders, out of necessity, are becoming administers to business. I consider meeting my obligation to Sec.119 by directly (anonymously)  paying tithes to our very old, special needs people

 I pay full Tithe to Church. It spends millions on  property, buildings, businesses, investments. (some of bad repute). Church says prepare economic crisis. Church could use millions on farms, ground, store houses stuffed with needful stuff. In my area good members are poor. I pay more anonymously.  I  feel I need to pay more directly to the poor and not the church. Will God recognize this as my Tithe? God will know. Church will not know, is that important?

Jon

Answer

Jon,

I think you’re skipping verse 1 in section 119.

“Verily, thus saith the Lord, I require all their surplus property to be put into the hands of the bishop of my church in Zion,”

It is a mistaken approach to personally interpret scripture in opposition to the teachings of those anointed to lead God’s Church in these latter-days. The proper way to pay tithing has been clearly established. Paying it in some other way and then calling it tithing is inappropriate and will not count as tithing. Yes, credit given where credit due, if we help the poor it is good. It is, in fact commanded of us that we do so if able. But this is a separate command from tithing. Tithing is to be paid to the bishop – 10% of our increase. That is the law.

Concerning the leaders becoming administrators to business, I have to ask in response, what’s the problem with that? Certainly you must understand that as the Church has grown into the size it is, that the administrative side of it would also have need to grow as well.

That being said, I reject the implication that business is all, or even primarily, the concern of our leaders. A simple look at President Monson’s travel schedule over the past years indicates a very different story. Most of his time is spent in temple dedications, missionary visits, and conferences of various sorts. This would be true for any of the general leaders. They are engaged in the Lord’s work. The fact that a portion of that work is to manage the temporal affairs of the Church does not take away from anything.

And I ask you as well, who are we to determine how the Lord will spend His funds? Are we called to make that determination? Do we have the authority or spiritual link to claim superior knowledge and understanding concerning the Lord’s will as to His kingdom on the earth.

There has been a fair amount of controversy, for example, in the recent past over the downtown Salt Lake shopping mall. Many accusations have sprung up around the web against the Church and the use of its funds. But I have to wonder, why is consideration never given to the idea that it was the Lord’s will. Somehow many of us seem to think we know better than the prophet, better than the apostles. Somehow we think ourselves more enlightened, more holy, and more in tune with God’s true will.

But we are not. Let’s show a bit of faith here that God is leading His Church. Let’s trust and sustain those He has chosen to do so, in both their efforts on the spiritual front and the temporal front of God’s kingdom.

President Gordon B. Hinkley addressed the church’s involvement in commercial business in October of 1985

.

“Why is the Church in commercial business of any kind?

 

Essentially, the business assets which the Church has today are an outgrowth of enterprises which were begun in the pioneer era of our history when we were isolated in the valleys of the mountains of western America. For instance, a newspaper was then needed to keep the people advised of what was going on at home and abroad. The result was the Deseret News,which has been published now for 135 years. In the 1920s, government officials encouraged newspapers to set up radio stations. That was in the infancy of the broadcasting industry. One such radio station was established by the Deseret News here in Salt Lake City. From that has grown, by the natural process of development, holdings of a number of broadcasting properties.

 

As all of you will recognize, the ability and the facilities to communicate are among our great and constant needs. The ownership of these properties, both newspaper and broadcasting facilities, while they are operated as commercial entities, both directly and indirectly helps us in our responsibility to communicate our message and our point of view.

 

The Church was a pioneer in the sugar beet industry to help our farmers who needed a cash crop. One of our present properties is an outgrowth of that.

 

A beautiful hotel was constructed adjacent to Temple Square seventy-five years ago to provide a comfortable hostelry for visitors to this city.

 

Merchandising interests are an outgrowth of the cooperative movement which existed among our people in pioneer times. The Church has maintained certain real estate holdings, particularly those contiguous to Temple Square, to help preserve the beauty and the integrity of the core of the city. All of these commercial properties are tax-paying entities.

 

I repeat, the combined income from all of these business interests is relatively small and would not keep the work going for longer than a very brief period.

 

I should like to add, parenthetically for your information, that the living allowances given the General Authorities, which are very modest in comparison with executive compensation in industry and the professions, come from this business income and not from the tithing of the people.”

Gordon B. Hinkley also addressed the church’s downtown Salt Lake efforts in 1999:

“We have a real estate arm designed primarily to ensure the viability and the attractiveness of properties surrounding Temple Square. The core of many cities has deteriorated terribly. This cannot be said of Salt Lake City, although you may disagree as you try to get to the Tabernacle these days. We have tried to see that this part of the community is kept attractive and viable. With the beautiful grounds of Temple Square and the adjoining block to the east, we maintain gardens the equal of any in the world. This area will become even more attractive when the facility now being constructed on Main Street is completed and the large Conference Center to the north is finished.

 

Are these businesses operated for profit? Of course they are. They operate in a competitive world. They pay taxes. They are important citizens of this community. And they produce a profit, and from that profit comes the money which is used by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Foundation to help with charitable and worthwhile causes in this community and abroad and, more particularly, to assist in the great humanitarian efforts of the Church.

 

These businesses contribute one-tenth of their profit to the Foundation. The Foundation cannot give to itself or to other Church entities, but it can use its resources to assist other causes, which it does so generously. Millions of dollars have been so distributed. Thousands upon thousands have been fed. They have been supplied with medicine. They have been supplied with clothing and shelter in times of great emergency and terrible distress. How grateful I feel for the beneficence of this great Foundation which derives its resources from the business interests of the Church.”

We also know that Joseph Smith in his role as leader of the Church planned cities and business, so it cannot be rightly viewed that the Church has corrupted some idealistic utopia that Joseph originally envisioned.

In fact the Lord addressed the Church’s need to deal with things “in the earth, and under the earth” in D&C 88:78-80

“Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand;

 

“Of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—

 

“That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you.”

Your efforts to support the poor are commendable. But do not use one commandment to justify disobedience to another.

Gramps

Gramps,

My church recently leader told me I had to pay my tithing to “him.” He told me to put it in an envelope and mail it to his home. I don’t feel comfortable about this. I used to pay it directly to the church, but recently, I have also been wondering if what I sacrifice of my family’s financial resources really even goes to the Lord. It seems like a lot of tithing goes to pay salaries for those who work in the church office building and at the different BYUs. Many of these church employees get generous compensation and some of the best employer insurance out there on the market for their families, while my wife can’t even get coverage, because we are below the poverty line and fall through a crack in the Obamacare system. I contacted both the federal and state government about the issue and they said nothing can be done unless she gets pregnant and has another baby, but even then the insurance will only last until she has a baby. I know the church won’t help my wife get coverage that’s fair and affordable either, yet they use our “widow’s mite” for their own employees. Can I go dig a hole and bury my tithing up to the Lord like Moroni did the golden plates, so I, at least, have some peace of mind who it’s going to?

Anonymous

Answer

Anonymous

If you mean your Bishop when you say ‘Church Leader’ then he’s actually correct. The Bishop is accountable for all tithes paid by members of his congregation. Mailing the tithing to the Bishop’s house is actually not uncommon at all in the church.

For the rest of your question, let me gently offer to you some of the items tithing funds are used for;

-Building and maintaining meetinghouses, stake centers, and temples as well as other Church facilities that are focused on the religious teachings and actions of the Church and its members.

-Printing lesson manuals used on Sunday, including the ‘Teachings of the Prophets’ series that has been ongoing for some years now. This also includes all the manuals for Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Principles, the Primary and Youth programs, etc. The reason all of these are provided to the members at no cost is because the money to print them came from tithing. In effect, we already paid for them.

Tithing funds are sacred funds, and not a penny of them is spent lining anyone’s pockets, let alone the Bishop. In fact, none of the leaders of the Church are paid until you get to the general level of authority such as a Seventy, Apostle or First Presidency. Even at that, their stipends are very modest, and are provided from other sources of income besides tithing.

What might interest you is that the Church owns a sizeable array of profitable businesses that have little if anything to do with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. These businesses must support themselves, pay for themselves, and pay their employees. An example would be KSL Radio in Salt Lake City.

Now, regarding the Church office building and those who work there, I can assure you that your tithing funds are not given to them, or used for any of their benefit packages. Once again, the Church owns other profitable businesses that they can morally and legally be used to pay for such expenses outside of tithing funds.

Look at your tithing slip and notice the different categories that people can select when filling it out. Any funds that are directed to specific areas must be used there and nowhere else. For instance, if I were to put, say, $120 in tithing, $40 in fast offering, and another $40 in the missionary fund, then that’s where the money must go. Nobody in the church has the authority to move the money from one category to another.

Every year, the Church conducts a very thorough financial audit on itself. The Church Auditing Department is an autonomous group of financial experts such as bankers and accountants. The only people they must answer to are the First Presidency. They have open access to all the financial records of the Church for the purpose of their audit. During General Conference, they present their report to the Church as a whole regarding the financial status of the Church.

Now, having said all that, let me tell you something in a different light.

When you pay your tithing, even if someone should misuse the money, or outright steal it, the blessings of paying your tithing in faith and obedience to the laws of God are still yours. You cannot be held accountable for what someone else may or may not do with your tithing money.

I’m not saying it never happens. We are, all of us, weak and mortal. Money can be a very tempting thing to steal in any situation. What I am saying is that you should not feel that you are in any danger should your tithing be stolen or misused.

I can assure you that if and when abuse of tithing funds is discovered, the problem is remedied quickly and completely. For instance, suppose a Bishop pockets tithing to help pay for his car. As soon as it is discovered, the Church would immediately remove him from the calling, suspend his membership and report the crime to legal authorities. Once the law has had its say, the Church will evaluate the outcome and determine if further actions are needed, up to and including excommunication.

Such an action on the part of a Bishop could be seen as fraud, theft, and maybe even other serious breaches of law.

While I said earlier that it certainly could happen, I feel impressed to tell you it is likely a very very rare thing to have happen. If you are still concerned, speaking with your Stake President might help. Certainly I advise you to pray about it. Heavenly Father will lead you to the answers and peace of mind you are seeking as soon as He sees that the time is right. I pray you will learn and grow even stronger in your faith in Christ as well.

May God be with you always.

Gramps

*note to add* While this Q&A was posted in 2014, it still contains some relevant information pertaining to financial funds donated.  However, most members now choose to pay their tithes and offerings online instead of handing an envelope to a member of the Bishopric.

Liz

__________________

Liz,

Before I answer your question I would like to express my gratitude for your understanding of our obligation before the Lord to pay our tithing.

My recommendation would be to speak with the missionaries regarding your questions and concerns. Ask if they would be willing to speak with their mission president. The mission president has been given specific authority, keys, to discern and to given authorization should he feel the individuals situation is suitable still for baptism. In your case, it would be great to hear from him and his thoughts.

I am reminded of the words of the Lord given to Nephi, that the Lord has not given us a commandment that we would be unable to accomplish (1 Nephi 3: 7), although as with Nephi it may not be without much difficulty until the light shines.

In the meantime, while you are anticipating the conversation with our missionaries, it is important to note our obligation to honor the debts we have incurred and to pay them off. As Latter-Day Saints we have been taught, “We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.” (Article of Faith #12) In other words, as members of the church, we deliberately hold ourselves to the standards of civil law wherever we live, whatever nation that may be. Continue to be honest in your debts, this is right, or as Christ said, “Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Cæsar the things which are Cæsar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.” (Matthew 22: 21)

Gramps

Janet

____________

Yes! By the way, in my opinion, there’s no better way to show an active testimony of tithing than by paying tithing.

-Gramps