Introduction

Where shall I send my tithe? I no longer have confidence in church leadership. May I give it to anyone who claims to preach ‘the straight testimony’ of the Adventist faith? May I assist self-supporting units with it? In other words, am I free, as a church member, to direct my tithe into any channel I see fit? Can I expect the Lord’s approval of such a course of action?HUT 39.7

These are practical questions—and sincere. Unfortunately, they reflect an uncertainty among some of our members over the role and function of the organized world church of Seventh-day Adventists. Since we are a Bible-based church, we believe that Israel’s experience with organization and tithing can provide sound insights to assist modern Adventists in resolving such questions.HUT 39.8