WEEK # 40

TITHING

" By this principle (tithing) the loyalty of the people of this Church shall be put to the test.  By this principle it shall be known who is for the kingdom of God and who is against it."    (Joseph F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, p. 225).

" The principle of tithing should be more than a mathematical, mechanical compliance with the law. . . .  If we pay our tithes because of our love for the Lord, in complete freedom and faith, we narrow our distance from him and and our relationship to him becomes intimate.  We are released from the bondage of legalism, and we are touched by the spirit and feel a oneness with God.

"The payment of tithing strengthens faith, increases spirituality and spiritual capacity, and solidifies testimony"  (Howard W. Hunter,  "The Windows of Heaven,"  Improvement Era, June 1964, p. 476).

Questions and Activities

• What is the law of tithing?
• How does tithing develop unselfishness?
• How are tithing funds used?
• What is the history and future of the law of tithing?
• Share with your family experiences that have strengthened your testimony of the law of tithing.
• What blessings come from paying a full tithe?
• What is the importance of our attitude in paying tithing?
• What is your testimony of the law of tithing?  Record this in your journal.

Topical Guide

Consecrate

Consecration

Family, Managing Finances in

Tenth

Tithing

Scriptures

Jacob 2:18-19

3 Nephi 24:6-12

D&C 64:23-25; 119

Genesis 28:22

Numbers 18:26

2 Chronicles 31:5

Malachi 3:8-12

Luke 21:1-4

Bible Dictionary

Tithe

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 32

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 26