Based on the writings of Ellen White, the tithe is designated primarily for the support of the ministry. However, she does not state that *only* those who preach can be supported by it. There are specific instances where she broadens the definition of "ministry." Here’s a breakdown of her counsel: ### The Primary Purpose of Tithe Ellen White is very clear that the tithe's main purpose is to support the ministers of the gospel. She cautioned against diverting it to other uses. * **On diverting tithe:** "One reasons that the tithe may be applied to school purposes. Still others reason that canvassers and colporteurs should be supported from the tithe. But a great mistake is made when the tithe is drawn from the object for which it is to be used—the support of the ministers." (9T 248.4) * **God's plan has not changed:** "God has not changed; the tithe is still to be used for the support of the ministry. The opening of new fields requires more ministerial efficiency than we now have, and there must be means in the treasury." (GW 227.2) ### An Exception: Bible Teachers in Schools Ellen White identified a specific group, other than pastors, who should be supported by the tithe: qualified Bible teachers in schools. * **Bible teachers' salaries:** "The best ministerial talent should be employed in teaching the Bible in our schools. Those selected for this work need to be thorough Bible students and to have a deep Christian experience, and their salary should be paid from the tithe." (6T 134.3) ### What Tithe Should Not Be Used For She also specified certain activities for which the tithe should not be used. * **Political speech:** "The tithe should not be used to pay any one for speechifying on political questions." (GW 393.1) In summary, while Ellen White emphasized that the tithe is sacredly set apart for the "support of the ministry," her application of the term "ministry" included not only pastors but also those with "ministerial talent" who were dedicated to teaching the Bible in schools. She explicitly stated that other important lines of work, such as general school expenses, canvassers, and colporteurs, should be sustained by other means, like offerings, but not from the tithe.