Why It’s Time for the LDS Church to Reconsider Tithing Requirements and Settlements
By Bobby Darvish – darvishintelligence.blogspot.com
Introduction
As a former Muslim, now a proud member of the Christian LDS Church, I've had the unique experience of examining faith practices from vastly different perspectives. While the LDS Church holds a deep place in my heart, one aspect that I feel merits serious reconsideration is our practice of tithing, especially in its current, compulsory form. Tithing is a valuable principle rooted in the teachings of the gospel, but it should never be a barrier to temple access or spiritual progression. This article will explore why tithing should become anonymous and voluntary, not tied to temple worthiness or a settlement meeting, particularly given the church’s significant wealth and the economic hardships affecting its members.
The Original Intent Behind Tithing in the Church
In early LDS doctrine, tithing was established as a means to support the needs of a young and growing church. Early Saints sacrificed to build a foundation that would carry the message of the gospel to all corners of the earth. The LDS Church today, however, stands as one of the wealthiest religious organizations in the world, with an estimated $100 billion in investments and assets. The church’s wise and responsible financial stewardship has created a robust safety net, ensuring that its mission will continue without interruption for generations. This financial security means that, as members, we should re-evaluate whether mandatory tithing still aligns with the original spirit and need behind the practice.
The High Cost of Faith Amid Economic Hardship
Today, many members of the church face mounting financial challenges. Inflation rates have skyrocketed, making basic necessities a struggle for many. Housing, healthcare, and education costs have all increased substantially, leaving families financially stretched. For some, meeting the tithing requirement is a hardship, yet they are compelled to choose between financial stability and temple access. This choice can cause unnecessary stress, detracting from the spiritual peace that temple worship is meant to provide. The commandment to tithe should not be a burden but a means of building faith. For many members, particularly those facing financial struggles, making tithing voluntary and anonymous would provide spiritual empowerment without the stress of a mandatory financial obligation.
The Case for Anonymous and Voluntary Tithing
One of the key aspects of Christian giving is that it should be done in private, as Jesus taught in Matthew 6:3-4: "But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret." Making tithing anonymous aligns with this principle. Additionally, anonymous giving removes the potential for judgment and comparison among members. When we make tithing voluntary and anonymous, we encourage a purer form of giving, motivated by personal conviction rather than obligation.
Furthermore, making temple access contingent upon tithing status raises theological and ethical questions. Faithfulness should not be measured by one’s financial contributions but by their commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ and their personal spiritual growth. By separating tithing from temple access, we allow members to pursue spiritual worthiness without financial constraints.
The Current Financial Position of the Church
While the church’s substantial wealth is a testament to sound management and forward planning, it also means that members are no longer required to bear the same financial sacrifices as the early Saints. The Church’s investments, reportedly over $100 billion, generate significant income that supports its missions, humanitarian efforts, and educational programs. With this foundation, mandatory tithing is no longer essential to sustain the church’s activities. Instead, funds can be directed toward areas of real need, such as supporting members in financial distress or expanding outreach programs. This approach would honor the sacrifices of early Saints while respecting the realities of modern economic pressures.
The Role of Faith and Agency in Tithing
One of the central tenets of the gospel is agency—the freedom to choose and act according to one’s beliefs and convictions. Tithing, when made voluntary, becomes an exercise in true agency. Members who choose to tithe will do so out of love and devotion rather than obligation, making their offerings more meaningful. This shift also allows members to assess their personal financial situation and contribute in a way that aligns with both their faith and their responsibilities to their families. Making tithing voluntary and separating it from temple eligibility will strengthen the church community by emphasizing spiritual commitment over financial contribution.
Conclusion
As a member of the LDS Church, I am deeply grateful for the blessings and spiritual guidance it has provided in my life. However, I believe it is time for the church to revisit its approach to tithing. In light of the church’s considerable financial security and the economic challenges facing members, transitioning to a model where tithing is anonymous, voluntary, and unlinked from temple access is both compassionate and faithful to gospel principles. This change would allow members to focus on their spiritual journey without financial concerns, thereby strengthening their connection to the church and fostering a more inclusive community for all Saints.
Citations:
"LDS Church and Tithing," LDS Church History Library, accessed [date].
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/tithing."Church Finances," LDS Church Newsroom, 2023.
https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-finances.Matth. 6:3-4, The Holy Bible, New Testament, King James Version.
Hardy, Grant. Understanding the Book of Mormon: A Reader’s Guide. Oxford University Press, 2010.
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