Promoting tithe consciousness among administrators, pastors, church treasures, and members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kenya

Abstract

The SDA Church in Field A in Kenya could have been in a better financial position if all its 60,000 members faithfully and regularly gave their tithes. This study attempts to find a biblical-theological interpretation of tithe in order to promote tithe consciousness in Field A and in the SDA Church in Kenya. Tithe is holy and belongs to God (Lev 27:30-33). The tithe was reserved for the Levites and the priests (Num 18:21-28). A "second tithe" was levied for religious festivities and charity (Deut 14:22-29). Jesus approved the giving of tithe (Matt 23:23). The Apostle Paul stated that those who preach the gospel are to live by the gospel (1 Cor 9:14). The proceeds of the gospel could have included tithes and offerings. Ellen G. White, a prophetess in the SDA Church, upheld the biblical law of tithe in her and practice. A pastoral action is suggested for (a) church members, (2) church treasurers, (3) pastors, (4) administrators, and (5) SDA Church in general. The strategy for the members is to be impremented in successive phases. The goal is to double Field A's tithe in two years' time if not sooner after launching the first phase. As the church is dynamic, the strategies need to be appraised at regular intervals.