{"id":791,"date":"2024-05-03T11:07:04","date_gmt":"2024-05-03T18:07:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/novus2.com\/righteouscause\/?p=791"},"modified":"2024-05-03T21:56:56","modified_gmt":"2024-05-04T04:56:56","slug":"10-of-my-income-100-of-my-choice-unveiling-the-mormon-tithe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/novus2.com\/righteouscause\/2024\/05\/03\/10-of-my-income-100-of-my-choice-unveiling-the-mormon-tithe\/","title":{"rendered":"10% of My Income, 100% of My Choice? Unveiling the Mormon Tithe."},"content":{"rendered":"

Y’ALL ARE DOING MALACHI ALL WRONG!<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

A key Old Testament reference used by the LDS Church for tithing is Malachi 3:10-12:<\/p>\n

Blessings of Paying an Honest Tithe<\/strong><\/a>.
\nMalachi 3:10\u201312 teaches us the following principle: If we return to God and pay our tithes and offerings, then the Lord will pour out blessings upon us.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The Application of Malachi 3:9-10 in a Modern Context.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Book of Malachi mentions the concept of tithing, where Israelites were instructed to bring a tenth of their produce to the temple (Malachi 3:9-10). This passage is often cited to support the practice of tithing within the LDS Church. However, understanding the historical context is crucial to determine its present-day relevance.<\/p>\n

Understanding the Original Context.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Book of Malachi addresses the Israelites during their Second Temple period. The passage criticizes their neglect in bringing tithes, leading to a lack of resources for the temple and its \u03bb\u03b5\u03b9\u03c4\u03bf\u03c5\u03c1\u03b3\u03bf\u03af (leitourgoi<\/strong><\/a>, meaning ministers, servants, or caretakers). As a consequence, God promises blessings upon them if they resume this practice (Malachi 3:10). The “storehouse” mentioned refers to a specific location within the temple for storing these offerings.<\/p>\n

Tithing and the New Testament.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The arrival of the New Testament church and the spread of the faith beyond Jewish communities presented new questions about following the Mosaic Law. While some practices were carried over, tithing wasn’t explicitly mandated for new believers (Acts 15:19-21). The emphasis in the New Testament shifted towards voluntary giving based on individual means and the needs of the community (examples in Acts 4:34-37).<\/p>\n

Modern Application of Giving.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The core principle derived from these passages is the importance of supporting the church and those in need. While the specific practice of tithing might not be universally applicable, the concept of generous giving remains a cornerstone of religious stewardship. Many modern churches often encourage members to prayerfully consider their financial resources and determine a giving pattern that aligns with their means and the needs of the church community.<\/p>\n

Of course, with that whole “Restored Gospel” and all, the\u00a0 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a little more regimented philosophy of Tithing…<\/p>\n

Let’s dive into the Mormon version of “The Tithe.”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
\r\n
\r\n \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

In an 1899 Conference talk, President Lorenzo Snow said \u201c\u2026I plead with you in the name of the Lord, and I pray that every man, woman and child who has means shall pay one tenth of their income as a tithing\u2026\u201d The Church later altered Snow\u2019s revelation, removing the essential words \u201cwho has means,\u201d commanding all to pay, even those who struggle to provide basic food, utilities and health to their families.<\/p>\n

Latter-day Saint (LDS) Church apologists justify the obligation to tithe within their religion by interpreting the principle of tithing as a continuation of biblical teachings and commandments rather than strictly adhering to the Old Mosaic Covenant or Jewish law. Here are some key points they often emphasize:<\/p>\n

Continuation of Biblical Principles:<\/strong> LDS Church teachings emphasize a belief in the continuity of God’s laws and commandments throughout history. While the specific regulations of the Old Mosaic Covenant may apply indirectly to Latter-day Saints, they view the principle of tithing as a timeless commandment that has been reaffirmed and reiterated by prophets and leaders throughout biblical and modern-day scripture.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Since the angel Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith 200 years ago and shared about the Book of Mormon, the Restoration of the gospel has been ongoing, historians say.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/p>\n

Restoration of Gospel Principles:<\/strong> Latter-day Saints believe in the restoration of the gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith. They assert that tithing was restored as a principle of the gospel in the early 19th century, based on revelations received by Joseph Smith, such as Doctrine and Covenants section 119. Therefore, they see tithing as a contemporary commandment for all believers, not just those under the Old Mosaic Covenant.<\/p>\n

Obedience to Past and Modern-day Prophets:<\/strong> LDS Church members are taught to follow the guidance of all prophets and apostles, who are believed to receive revelation and guidance from God. These leaders have reiterated the principle of tithing as a commandment for Latter-day Saints, emphasizing its importance in spiritual growth and blessings.<\/p>\n

Blessings and Spiritual Benefits:<\/strong> Apologists often highlight the spiritual benefits and blessings associated with faithful adherence to the principle of tithing. They teach that tithing is a means of expressing gratitude to God, supporting the work of the Church, and receiving spiritual blessings and protection.<\/p>\n

Overall, LDS Church apologists justify the obligation to tithe within their religion by framing it as a continuation of biblical principles, reinforced by modern-day revelation and guidance from church leaders. They emphasize the spiritual significance and blessings associated with faithful observance of this commandment, regardless of one’s cultural or religious background.<\/p>\n

Let’s embark on a journey of Spiritual Archaeology. Grab your shovel.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Church News: The Mormon tithe<\/strong><\/a>.
\nThe Church News<\/strong><\/em> is an official publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jointly published by the Deseret News and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its content supports the doctrines, principles and practices of the Church.<\/p>\n

\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lorenzo Snow was an American religious leader who served as the fifth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1898 until his death in 1901.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/p>\n

In early May 1899, 85-year-old Church President Lorenzo Snow felt directed by the Lord to travel 300 miles from Salt Lake City to St. George in the southwestern corner of Utah \u2014 without knowing why.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can scarcely express the reason why we came,\u201d he told a congregation of Latter-day Saints gathered in the red sandstone St. George Tabernacle on May 17, 1899, \u201cyet I presume the Lord will have somewhat to say to us.\u201d<\/p>\n

The answer came as a powerful spiritual manifestation to President Snow during his remarks. Pausing unexpectedly, with a countenance filled with light, the Prophet spoke on the importance of paying a full tithe, declaring that the time had come for every Latter-day Saint to obey this law and promising blessings to those who did so, according to \u201cSaints, Vol. 3.\u201d<\/p>\n

Speaking at the St. George Tabernacle again the next day, President Snow said, \u201cThe time has now come for every Latter-day Saint who calculates to be prepared for the future and to hold his feet strong upon a proper foundation, to go and do the will of the Lord and to pay his tithing in full. That is the word of the Lord to you, and it will be the word of the Lord to every settlement throughout the land of Zion.\u201d<\/p>\n

Despite the Saints\u2019 exile from Missouri, they continued to tithe and offer resources to build the Nauvoo Temple. Snow was not the first Church leader to teach about tithing, but he was the first prophet that emphasized it as a law.<\/span><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“A LAW?” … You’ll want to hold that thought.<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

LDS Newsroom: Tithing and Charitable Donations<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n

\"\"<\/a>
At its headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah, is the world’s largest LDS Temple. The temple was dedicated in 1893 and required forty years to be completed.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/p>\n

For Latter-day Saints, tithing is a natural and integrated aspect of their religious belief and practice. By the biblical definition, tithing is one-tenth, and Church members interpret this as a tenth of their \u201cincrease,\u201d or income, annually. It is paid on the honor system. No one asks to see income statements or pay slips.<\/p>\n

Tithes and other charitable donations help the Church carry out its mission of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ, caring for the poor, and strengthening members\u2019 faith and commitment to Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n

Additionally, tithing funds the construction and maintenance of Church facilities. These buildings provide the infrastructure for delivering both physical and spiritual relief to community members.<\/p>\n

All funds given to the Church by its members are considered sacred. They are voluntary offerings that represent the faith and dedication of members and are used with careful oversight and discretion.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Wikipedia: Tithing in<\/a> Mormonism<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The adoption of tithing and fast offerings as the economic foundation of the LDS Church marked a shift from the earlier communal period of the law of consecration to a system designed for economic stability. During the early Utah period of church history, tithing could be paid in various forms. “Property tithing” included all property that one owned upon time of conversion. This form of tithing was renewed in the September 1851 conference because of unsatisfactory returns. “Labor tithing” was a donation of every tenth day devoted for working on church projects. Tithing could be paid in its original form, such as in livestock, produce, or slaves. Donations in the form of United States currency, local scrip currency, or gold dust were also accepted.<\/p>\n

The LDS Church entered a debt crisis following the panic of 1893. Lorenzo Snow became the church’s president in 1898 and worked to solve the church’s money problems. With tithing donations declining, Snow traveled to southern Utah in 1899 and urged members to pay tithing. He returned to Salt Lake City and continued preaching its importance to church leaders, causing tithing revenues to increase.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

LDS Gospel Classics: Our Law of Tithing<\/a><\/strong>.
\nBy President Howard W. Hunter (1907\u20131995)<\/p>\n

\n

\"\"<\/a>
As an Elder, Hunter also served as Church Historian from 1970 to 1972.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/p>\n

The tithe is God\u2019s law for His children, yet the payment is entirely voluntary. In this respect it does not differ from the law of the Sabbath or from any other of His laws. We may refuse to obey any or all of them. Our obedience is voluntary, but our refusal to pay does not abrogate or repeal the law.<\/p>\n

If tithing is a voluntary matter, is it a gift or a payment of an obligation? There is a substantial difference between the two. A gift is a voluntary transfer of money or property with-out consideration. It is gratuitous. No one owes the obligation to make a gift. If tithing is a gift, we could give whatever we please, when we please, or make no gift at all. It would place our Heavenly Father in the very same category as the street beggar to whom we might toss a coin in passing.<\/p>\n

Blessings Will Come.<\/p>\n

A testimony of the law of tithing comes from living it. Like all other of God\u2019s laws, when we live them we receive the blessings.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Sinclair Digital Media, KUTV, Salt Lake City, UT.
\nNew historical information reveals the original meaning of LDS tithing<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

The LDS church is shedding more light on the faith’s longtime practice of tithing, answering a long-standing debate about how it is referred to in the faith’s scriptures and what it means today.<\/p>\n

Tithing requires members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to pay one-tenth of their income to the church. That money is then used to fund church operations.<\/p>\n

But while tithing has root in Mormon scripture, an LDS historian says the way it was calculated in the late 1830s was far different than what is practiced today.<\/p>\n

Steven Harper, a former BYU professor who now works at the LDS Church History Department, said tithing was originally based on net worth – not income.<\/p>\n

In an article published on LDS.org, Harper said the practice took shape in July 1838 when the faith’s founder, Joseph Smith, said he received a revelation about it. This came as the church was looking to raise money to build a new temple, Harper said.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Edward Partridge Sr. (1793 \u2013 1840) was one of the earliest converts to the Latter Day Saint movement and served as the first Bishop of the Church and was given the responsibility to administer the law of consecration among the Saints.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/p>\n

In the revelation as recorded in Mormon scripture, tithing was explained to mean members would give “all their surplus property” to the bishop at the time, Edward Partridge, and thereafter “pay one-tenth of all their interest annually.”<\/p>\n

Current LDS leaders say interest is typically interpreted as “income.” But that’s not what it has always meant.<\/p>\n

“Bishop Partridge understood ‘one tenth of all their interest’ annually to mean 10 percent of what Saints would earn in interest if they invested their net worth for a year,” Harper wrote. He cited an example from Partridge who was reportedly in the room when Smith received the revelation.<\/p>\n

“Though the Saints’ original understanding of tithing need not (and, in fact, does not) control how tithing functions today, it is fascinating to see the radically different understanding our religious forebears had of tithing,” wrote Sam Brunson, associate professor of law at Loyola University Chicago, in an online blog post.<\/p>\n

Today, Mormons simply pay ten percent of their income to the church, although there is still some debate among members as to whether to pay on gross or net income, how to pay tithing on investments, and whether tithing applies to monetary gifts.<\/p>\n

Paying tithing is considered one of the more important commandments in the church as members cannot enter LDS temples without doing it.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Which is the richest church in the world?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:<\/strong><\/span>
\n$100+ billion net worth<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

LDS website: How Are Tithing Funds Used<\/strong><\/a>?<\/p>\n

Tithing is the Lord\u2019s law of finance for His Church. Tithing donations are always used for the Lord\u2019s purposes, which He reveals through a council of His servants. Some of these uses are:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Building and maintaining temples, chapels, and other Church buildings.
\n\u2022 Supporting the activities and operations of local Church congregations.
\n\u2022 Supporting the programs of the Church, including education and family history research.<\/p>\n

Tithes are paid privately, and information about donations is kept strictly confidential.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

\u261dThat is the entire explanation of how tithing funds are used.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Should we be asking questions like this?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

The Salt Lake Tribune: Do Latter-day Saints have to buy their way into heaven with tithing? Asking for \u2026 um, a friend<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Why does God ask for money?<\/p>\n

The Almighty certainly does in the Latter-day Saint tradition. There have been times in the church\u2019s history when cash was tough to come by and every little bit counted. But in a religion that not just believes in ongoing revelation to prophets and apostles but also stresses it in a major way, times have changed. The church\u2019s fortunes (emphasis on fortunes) have changed, too. This particular religion has an estimated $100 billion, maybe even $150 billion, in its reserves \u2014 with more in other vaults.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>So the same outfit that once was cash poor and in desperate need is now richer than Egypt\u2019s old King Farouk.<\/p>\n

The church now has, as the saying goes, more money than God. That\u2019s a curious thing.<\/p>\n

If it\u2019s true, then why are church members, in order to be in good standing, taught to fork over 10% of their income every year? It\u2019s hardly an original question. It\u2019s been asked before or most assuredly whispered or wondered about, even in church hallways.<\/p>\n

Does God \u2014 all-powerful, all-perfect, all-knowing, all-wise \u2014 really need money? Does God need Sister Thompson\u2019s and Brother Perkins\u2019 money, more than their kids need their money? Do the believers need to forthrightly give it \u2014 or much of it \u2014 to one particular organization, a wealthy outfit worth billions and billions and billions, in exchange for their eternal well-being and welfare? Does it buy a nonstop ticket to God\u2019s great glory?<\/p>\n

Not rebelling here, simply asking, again, for a friend, trying to understand.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

That part about having “More money than God.”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Religion News Service: On Mormon tithing and a $100 billion investment fund<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s been nearly three years since I made the decision to stop tithing to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and two years since I first wrote about it. As I explained at the time, I was shaken, even devastated, by the news that my church was hoarding more than $100 billion in an investment fund with no immediate plans to use the money to help people. That war chest is in addition to the church\u2019s extensive real estate holdings and other assets. According to the original report about it in The Washington Post, the only times any assets had been withdrawn from the $100 billion investment fund were to shore up two of the church\u2019s for-profit ventures, including a life insurance company and an upscale shopping mall in Salt Lake City.<\/p>\n

I\u2019m not saying the church does not engage in any charitable activities. It absolutely does. Just last week I received an email press release about the church giving $10 million to fight polio around the world.<\/p>\n

Such efforts are beautiful and important \u2014 and not nearly enough. $10 million is a fair amount of money, but not in comparison to the billions that the church takes in each year (estimated to be around $7 billion, which more than covers its annual expenses with enough left over to continue investing).<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

$100 billion you say?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Whistleblower Details New Allegations About $100 Billion LDS Fund<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>A former employee of a $100 billion investment fund owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has submitted a memorandum to the U.S. Senate Finance Committee and its subcommittee on taxation and IRS oversight about the operations of the Salt Lake City-based Ensign Peak Advisors Inc.<\/p>\n

The 90-page memorandum obtained by ReligionUnplugged.com and embedded in this story \u201csummarizes evidence of false statements, systematic accounting fraud, private inurement violations of the Internal Revenue Code and other federal statutes and a \u2018Klein conspiracy\u2019 by Ensign Peak Advisors, Inc. (\u2018EPA\u2019) and others.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor at least 22 years, EPA and certain senior executives have perpetrated an unlawful scheme that relies on willfully and materially false statements to the IRS and the SEC, so this for-profit, securities investment business that unfairly competes with large hedge funds can masquerade as a tax-exempt, charitable organization,\u201d the memorandum says. \u201cEPA\u2019s senior managers for years have regularly permitted large assets to simply \u201cdisappear\u201d from EPA\u2019s books and have failed to apply basic internal controls to themselves.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Just gonna throw this out there…<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

LDS Newsroom: Tithing and Charitable Donations<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Tithes and other charitable donations help the Church carry out its mission of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ, caring for the poor, and strengthening members\u2019 faith and commitment to Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n

In addition to helping the Church care for the well-being of the less fortunate, Latter-day Saints make charitable donations because they believe in fulfilling God\u2019s commandment to tithe and give to the poor.<\/p>\n

All funds given to the Church by its members are considered sacred.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Let’s get back to digging…<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Mormon Think: Tithing<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

We don’t know what the current practice is, but according to Michael Quinn, the apostles exempted themselves from tithing in August 1844 [Well, isn’t that special?]:<\/p>\n

In August 1844 the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles issued an epistle which required all Mormons to immediately pay ‘a tenth of all their property and money . . . and then let them continue to pay in a tenth of their income from that time forth.’ There was no exemption for Mormons who had already paid one-tenth of their property upon conversion. In January 1845 a Quorum of Twelve’s epistle reemphasized ‘the duty of all saints to tithe themselves one-tenth of all they possess when they enter into the new and everlasting covenant: and then one-tenth of their interest, or income, yearly afterwards.’ However, two weeks later the Twelve voted to exempt themselves, the two general bishops Newel K. Whitney and George Miller, and the Nauvoo Temple Committee from any obligation to pay tithing. This was due to their services to the church.<\/p>\n

Apostle John E. Page’s enforcement of the full-tithing requirement for the rank-and-file led to his disaffection from his own quorum. Exempted from tithing himself, Page felt guilty about collecting tithing from others such as one Mormon who gave $4 which was “the tenth of all” the man and his impoverished family possessed. Upon abandoning the Quorum of the Twelve in 1846, Page complained that he “believes that many paid tithing & in consequence of [this, were in] want of money enough to procure misc. necessaries of life.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Reference: D. Michael Quinn, “The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power,” chapter 6<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

D. Michael Quinn, LDS CHURCH FINANCES<\/strong><\/a>.
\nFROM THE 1830s TO THE 1990s
\nChurch finances have not always been as they are today.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

\n

\"\"<\/a>
Excommunicated in 1993, D. Michael Quinn was once among Mormonism\u2019s most celebrated historians, lauded for his memory, work ethic and charisma. He was a professor at Brigham Young University (BYU) from 1976 until he resigned in 1988. \u201cHe may know more about the Mormon past than anybody alive,\u201d<\/em> Jan Shipps, a Methodist and a preeminent scholar of Mormon history, said in 2013. Quinn passed away in 2021 at the age of 77.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/p>\n

In January 1845, a Quorum of the Twelve epistle reemphasized “the duty of all saints to tithe themselves one-tenth of all they possess when they enter into the new and everlasting covenant: and then one-tenth of their interest, or income, yearly afterward. Two weeks later, the Quorum of the Twelve voted to exempt themselves, the two general bishops (Newel K. Whitney and George Miller), and the Nauvoo Temple Committee from any obligation to pay tithing. This was due to their services to the Church.<\/p>\n

Five years later, Brigham Young provided a penalty for those Mormons who didn’t comply with the published definitions of tithing. In September 1851, a special conference at Salt Lake City voted to accept excommunication as punishment for non-payment of tithing and non-observance of the Word of Wisdom’s prohibition of tobacco and spirituous drink.<\/strong> Neither requirement was enforced consistently or often. Nevertheless, in 1854 the Deseret News printed a notice by the bishop of the Salt Lake City Nineteenth Ward that Enoch M. King was disfellowshipped “for repeatedly refusing to conform to the rules of said Church, in the law of Tithing.” In October 1858, a bishop’s meeting asked Presiding Bishop Edward Hunter: “Are all to be cut off who do not pay their Tithing? Answer, deal according to circumstances, and the wisdom God gives.”<\/p>\n

On this matter, Apostle Erastus Snow was more zealous than most. In 1868, he gave orders to southern Utah bishops to excommunicate everyone “who will not keep the word of wisdom, Pay their Tithing & donate of their substance to help bring the Poor Saints from the old country.”<\/strong> A local Mormon estimated that enforcement of Snow’s instruction “would cause 3\/4 of this community to be cut off from this church.”‘<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Does it seem like everybody has questions?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

The Salt Lake Tribune: Does the tithing requirement for entry into LDS temples amount to Mormons buying their way into heaven?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

No payment? No entrance.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can earn [a place in the presence of our Father in Heaven],\u201d LDS apostle Marion G. Romney once said, \u201cby observing faithfully day by day, and year by year, the law of tithing and the other requirements of the gospel of Jesus Christ.\u201d<\/p>\n

Should Mormons\u2019 place in the afterlife, though, be determined, at least in part, by the dollars they give here and now? Should blessings of the temple be withheld from those who can\u2019t \u2014 or won\u2019t \u2014 pay?<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

\r\n
\r\n \r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div><\/p>\n

Perhaps the First Presidency and the<\/strong><\/span>
\nQuorum of the Twelve could have a special prayer meeting and<\/strong><\/span>
\npetition God to clear up the confusion.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\n

Even those folks at FAIR admit to some “alterations” regarding the definition of TITHING…<\/p>\n

FAIR: Tithing<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Yes, the definition of tithing has changed over time.<\/strong><\/span> From the Church’s founding until 1838, “the words tithe and tithing as used in the Church referred to any voluntary offering, regardless of the amount.” Beginning in 1831, “the Saints had been instructed to consecrate all of their property to the Church. This effort was moderately successful at first, but, ultimately, unsuccessful business and banking ventures undertaken by Church leaders, as well as nationwide economic problems, failed to produce the necessary funding to carry out the various divinely mandated endeavors. In an effort to cover Church expenses, Edward Partridge, in consultation with his first counselor and the manager of the Missouri storehouse, had suggested in late 1837 that each household donate 2 percent of its net worth each year.”<\/p>\n

In 1838 “questions arose about the best way to meet the Church\u2019s financial needs and the role donated funds should play.” In response to these questions, the Lord instructed that “first, the Saints should make a one-time donation of all their surplus property; ‘and after that,’ the revelation said, ‘those who have thus been tithed shall pay one-tenth of all their interest annually.'” By 1841, the requirement for an initial donation of all surplus property “shifted to donating one-tenth of Saints\u2019 net worth at the start of the Nauvoo Temple\u2019s construction or when they joined the Church,” while the requirement of donating “10 percent of their increase or income each subsequent year” continued unchanged. This practice of tithing continued through the end of the 19th century. At some point around the turn of the century, the practice of donating 10 percent of net worth upon joining the Church was discontinued. Today, “tithing is [defined as] the donation of one-tenth of one’s income to God’s Church.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Mormon Youth: Tithes and Offerings<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

When we pay tithing, the Lord blesses us more, so we\u2019re really not losing anything. There are many stories of people paying their tithing when they didn\u2019t think they could afford to who receive far more money that month than they expected, or who have other people come to their aid, or who get a new job when they need one. Not all blessings from paying tithing are material. Blessings can come in the form of having a new and better understanding of something or someone, or simply of coming closer to God through obedience. Obedience always, always leads to blessings.<\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

\r\n
\r\n <\/p>\n

And the stories of this<\/strong><\/span>
\nnot happening? What about those?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div><\/p>\n

This 2012 article from NBC would qualify in some circles as a “Revelation.”<\/p>\n

NBC News: Mormon church earns $7 billion a year from tithing, analysis indicates<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

If the Mormon church were a business, wealthy adherents like Mitt Romney would count as its dominant revenue stream.<\/p>\n

Its investment strategy would be viewed as risk-averse.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>It owns about $35 billion worth of temples and meeting houses around the world, and controls farms, ranches, shopping malls and other commercial ventures worth many billions more.<\/p>\n

Only about 40 percent of Mormons counted by the church actually attend weekly services in the United States and Canada, and in many countries, including Mexico and Brazil, only a quarter of nominal members are active, according to Cumorah, an independent research group headed by a devoted, active Mormon.<\/p>\n

Concerned or disgruntled current and former Mormons complain that the church spends too much on real estate and for-profit ventures, neglecting charity work.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The Mormon church has no hospitals and only a handful of primary schools. Its university system is limited to widely respected Brigham Young, which has campuses in Utah, Idaho and Hawaii, and LDS Business College. Seminaries and institutes for high school students and single adults offer religious studies for hundreds of thousands.<\/p>\n

The church has plowed resources into a multi-billion-dollar global network of for-profit enterprises: it is the largest rancher in the United States, a church official told Nebraska’s Lincoln Journal Star in 2004, with other ranches and farms in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Australia and Great Britain, according to financial documents reviewed by Reuters.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

I’m sorry, but this is just ludicrous…<\/strong><\/span>\ud83d\udc47<\/h3>\n

LDS website: Why Tithing Settlements?<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Declaration of tithing status [see Wikipedia<\/strong><\/a>]. We are accountable for what we have been given by God. And we shall be judged \u201cout of those things which [are] written in the books, according to [our] works\u201d (Revelation 20:12; see also 3 Nephi 27:26). President James E. Faust said, \u201cOne of the great blessings the people of this Church have is to meet with the bishop once each year, settle their tithing, and report that what they had paid in contributions constitutes a tithe. It is also a great blessing for the bishops to have this experience.\u201d<\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

And tell us more about that issue of privacy.<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

An audit of personal and Church records. Reviewing your records of contributions helps you ensure they are correct. An important part of the Church\u2019s audit procedures is to have individuals check whether their personal records match the Church\u2019s<\/strong><\/span> and whether contributions were properly distributed in the categories selected on the donation slips.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

If Mormon lay people only knew…<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Mormonism Research Ministry: Tithing by Coercion<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Most people would be offended at any organization which teaches that in order to escape damnation, giving of your financial means is mandatory. Yet, this is exactly what Mormonism teaches.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mormonism teaches that there are three degrees of glory reserved for those who have passed on from mortality. These are called the celestial, terrestrial, and telestial kingdoms. Within the celestial there are three more levels. LDS leaders have proclaimed that what a person believes and does in this life will be tantamount as to which kingdom that person will abide in the next life. Interestingly enough, any level lower than the top level within the celestial kingdom has been described as damnation.<\/p>\n

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Seriously, it’s complicated and requires a 10% surcharge.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

To clarify this we quote LDS Apostle Bruce McConkie. McConkie stated that salvation has varying degrees just as damnation has varying degrees. According to page 177 of his book Mormon Doctrine, he states that those who are damned are, \u201cThose who fail to gain exaltation in the highest heaven in the celestial world, even though they do gain a celestial mansion in one of the lower heavens of that world.\u201d He goes on to say, \u201cThe rejection of any covenant, the gospel, celestial marriage, or any other, assures the rebellious person of damnation.\u201d<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

If one hopes to obtain the celestial kingdom in the next life, he must practice what is known as \u201ccelestial law.\u201d In the words of third LDS President John Taylor, \u201cWe are told that if we cannot abide the law of the celestial kingdom we cannot inherit a celestial glory\u201d<\/strong><\/span> (Journal of Discourses 26:133).<\/p>\n

Brigham Young, Mormonism\u2019s second president, stated that if a person hopes to obtain the celestial kingdom, \u201cit requires a strict obedience to every point of law and doctrine and to every ordinance which the Lord reveals: in short, it requires a strict observance of every requirement of Heaven, to fully prepare a people for the possession and enjoyment of the celestial kingdom\u201d<\/strong><\/span> (Journal of Discourses 10:286).<\/p>\n

Having said all this, it should be noted that paying a full tithe is a requirement under celestial law.<\/strong><\/span> Said Mormon Apostle James E. Talmage,<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is important to know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has observed this requirement from the early days of its history\u2013not because it was operative in ancient Israel, nor because it was law and custom among the Jews in the days of Christ, but because it has been authoritatively established through modern revelation in the Church.\u201d<\/p>\n

Talmage then quoted Doctrine and Covenants 119: 3-4, which reads,<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd this shall be the beginning of the tithing of my People. 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 for ever, for my Holy Priesthood, saith the Lord.\u201d (The Vitality of Mormonism, pp.207 \u2013 208).<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

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DANG, those technicalities!<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

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Perhaps this official confirmation will be more convincing…<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Expired LDS Link:
\nThe Law of Tithing<\/strong><\/a>
\n\u201cSection 119, The Law of Tithing,\u201d Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual (2002), 292\u201394<\/p>\n

D&C 119:5\u20136. Warning<\/strong><\/span> to Those Who Disobey the Law of Tithing.<\/p>\n

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What happens if you miss a few payments?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Not only does disobedience influence one\u2019s blessings now, but it also affects one\u2019s future eternal inheritance. Elder Melvin J. Ballard gave this counsel: \u201cDo we not hope and expect to have an inheritance in the celestial kingdom, even upon this earth in its redeemed and sanctified state? [D&C 88:25\u201326; 130:9.] What are the terms under which we may obtain that inheritance? The law of tithing is the law of inheritance. It leads to it. No man may hope or expect to have an inheritance on this celestial globe who has failed to pay his tithing.<\/strong><\/span> By the payment of his honest tithing he is establishing a right and a title to this inheritance, and he cannot secure it upon any other terms but by complying with this and other just requirements; and this is one of the very essential things.\u201d (In Conference Report, Oct. 1929, p. 51.)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

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You be the judge!<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

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In this YouTube video, Nemo the Mormon<\/strong><\/em> asks some interesting questions and presents some excellent observations … particularly this quote from Joseph Smith:<\/p>\n

Furthermore, I want to say to you, we may not be able to reach it right away, but we expect to see the day when we will not have to ask you for one dollar of donation for any purpose, except that which you volunteer to give of your own accord, because we will have tithes sufficient in the storehouse of the Lord to pay everything that is needful for the advancement of the kingdom of God.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The FUTURE of Mormon Tithing.<\/p>\n