Ellen Chat Conversation

The Lord has established a specific design for the management of the tithe, designating it as His own reserved fund to be brought into the storehouse or treasury. This fund is not to be treated with impulse or diverted to various channels based on personal preference, but is to be used systematically for the advancement of His cause (MYP 308). When individuals choose to direct these funds toward private organizations or other lines of work, they are meddling with resources that God has consecrated for a specific purpose, which can lead to the loss of heavenly treasure (Echoes June 21, 1905, par. 7). The primary biblical mandate for the tithe is the support of the gospel ministry and the sending of preachers to those in spiritual darkness (MYP 308).

Using this sacred fund for other purposes—even those that seem necessary or good—is considered a misapplication of resources that should remain in the treasury to ensure it is full for the Lord's service (PH157 7). When the tithe is diverted, the treasury becomes depleted, which discourages potential laborers from entering the ministry and hedges up the work of opening new fields (9T 249.3). Furthermore, the responsibility of the believer is to remain faithful to God's established order regardless of how they perceive the management of the church. Even if one is not in harmony with every action of their brethren or if conference business is not managed perfectly, it is not considered safe or right to withhold the tithe or direct it elsewhere (SpTA01b 27.1).

The act of withholding or diverting the tithe is described as robbing God, and those who do so risk the consequences of disobedience while missing out on the promised blessings of a full treasury (PH087 9.1) (CS 92.2). The Scriptures, particularly the instructions found in Malachi 3 and the Pauline counsel in 1 Corinthians 16, emphasize that the tithe is a separate, sacred fund (2TT 562.3). It is not to be used to settle personal debts or to support "other lines of work" that should be sustained through separate gifts and offerings (Echoes June 21, 1905, par. 7).

By following the divine plan and ensuring the tithe flows into the designated treasury, the channel between God and man remains open, and the ministry is properly sustained (T29 126.1).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the proper use of the tithe for the support of the ministry?How does the "storehouse" principle apply to modern church organization?What practical counsel did she give regarding the difference between tithes and offerings?

The biblical foundation for the management of sacred funds is rooted in the principle that God’s instructions are enduring and authoritative. The Old Testament provides essential lessons and figures that remain forceful and relevant for the church today, establishing a pattern for how God's people should relate to His requirements (17MR 6). These scriptural foundations are considered the "pegs" and "pins" of our faith that should not be moved or altered by human authority (17MR 6). Specific scriptures are often highlighted as being illustrative of a life dedicated to sharing God's messages and upholding His order. For instance, the proclamation of God's righteousness and faithfulness in the "great congregation" is a key biblical theme connected to the responsibility of sharing the truth as it has been revealed (LS 451.1).

This aligns with the mandate to bring all resources into the appointed treasury to support the public proclamation of the gospel (LS 451.1).

Furthermore, the New Testament reinforces the Old by providing the substance to the symbols previously established. The messages given to the church are intended to be preached in their original luster, ensuring that the foundation of faith remains firm (14MR 311). By following the biblical model of the storehouse, believers ensure that the truth is powerful in the conviction of others and that the work of God is not hindered by the diversion of funds to unauthorized channels (14MR 311).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the biblical storehouse mentioned in Malachi 3?How does the relationship between the Old and New Testaments affect our understanding of church order?What practical counsel did she give regarding the support of the gospel ministry through the tithe?