Chapter 13—Will a Man Rob God?
The Lord has made the diffusion of light and truth in the earth
dependent on the voluntary efforts and offerings of those who have
been partakers of the heavenly gifts. Comparatively few are called to
travel as ministers or missionaries, but multitudes are to co-operate in
spreading the truth with their means.
The history of Ananias and Sapphira is given us that we may
understand the sin of deception in regard to our gifts and offerings.
They had voluntarily promised to give a portion of their property for
the promotion of the cause of Christ; but when the means was in their
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hands they declined to fulfill that obligation, at the same time wishing
it to appear to others that they had given all. Their punishment was
marked in order that it might serve as a perpetual warning to Christians
of all ages. The same sin is fearfully prevalent at the present time, yet
we hear of no such signal punishment. The Lord shows men once with
what abhorrence He regards such an offense against His sacred claims
and dignity, and then they are left to follow the general principles of
the divine administration.
Voluntary offerings and the tithe constitute the revenue of the
gospel. Of the means which is entrusted to man, God claims a certain
portion—a tithe; but He leaves all free to say how much the tithe is,
and whether or not they will give more than this. They are to give
as they purpose in their hearts. But when the heart is stirred by the
influence of the Spirit of God, and a vow is made to give a certain
amount, the one who vowed has no longer any right to the consecrated
portion. He has given his pledge before men, and they are called
to witness to the transaction. At the same time he has incurred an
obligation of the most sacred character to co-operate with the Lord in
building up His kingdom on earth. Promises of this kind made to men
would be considered binding. Are they not more sacred and binding
when made to God? Are promises tried in the court of conscience less
binding than written agreements with men?
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