Can Holding Callings in the LDS Church Without Paying Tithing Be Valid?
The question of whether an individual can continue to hold callings in the LDS (Latter-day Saints) Church without paying tithing is a complex one, deeply rooted in both spiritual and practical considerations within the Church's teachings. The Scriptures, particularly Malachi 3:8-12, provide a significant framework for understanding tithing and its importance.
Understanding Tithing in the LDS Church
Within the Scriptures, God speaks through the prophet Malachi, emphasizing the importance of tithing. Malachi 3:8-12 states, in part, 'Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.' These verses highlight the divinity of tithe and offer as a way to express a dedication to the Lord and a willingness to support the Church's work and the needs of others.
The Context of Tithing in the LDS Church
The principle of tithing, as prescribed throughout the Bible and elaborated in the Doctrine and Covenants, is based on the belief that Jesus is the High Priest of the New and Everlasting Covenant. Tithing is seen as a symbol of trust in His leadership and His role in providing for all the needs of the House of Israel. It is also a customizable observance where individuals can contribute 10% of their income, or 'their first increase,' to support Church programs and projects.
The LDS Church uses tithing to fund a wide array of social and humanitarian programs, educational assistance, and the construction and maintenance of places of worship, as well as to provide for the spiritual and physical needs of members within the Church.
Spiritual Objections and Practical Concerns
While the spiritual dimension is a significant factor in the decision to pay tithing, there are also practical considerations. A Bishop, the head of a local Church leadership in the LDS tradition, may be responsible for leading, guiding, and serving individuals in various capacities, from organizing community service projects to overseeing spiritual growth and development. The time and effort required for these roles can be substantial, often requiring the Bishops to dedicate over 20 hours a week in service to others.
From a spiritual perspective, tithing is seen as a way to show that you are devoted to the Lord and willing to support the work of the Church. By paying tithing, members demonstrate their commitment and trust in the divine plan. Not doing so could be viewed as a lack of faith or an unwillingness to participate in the ongoing work of the Church.
Utilitarian arguments also come into play. The argument that '10 of nothing is still nothing' reflects the idea that without tithing, the Church may not have the resources to continue its vital work, including caring for the poor and needy. This can be viewed as a practical consideration, as the absence of tithing could potentially hinder the effectiveness of the community's charitable efforts.
Conclusion and Reflection
Whether or not one pays tithing, the fundamental principle that sustains and strengthens the LDS community is the collective belief in serving others and blessing the world through their actions and spirit. As long as a person is fulfilling their callings with integrity and dedication, their commitment to the welfare of the community and individuals remains essential. The discussion of tithing, therefore, is not merely financial but is a reflection of one's spirituality, faith, and willingness to participate in the ongoing work of the Lord's kingdom on earth.
Ultimately, whether you choose to pay tithing or not is a personal decision that should be guided by one's faith, understanding of the Lord's commandments, and a desire to support the Church's mission. The blessings promised by the Lord, as stated in Malachi 3:10, are profound and far-reaching, and it is through these blessings that individuals and communities are called to reach out to one another and build up one another.