Tithe
The returning of a faithful tithe (10% of income) is following a Biblical principle which demonstrates a person’s relationship with God. The tithe received is used as the financial basis for funding the denomination’s evangelistic outreach program. The tithe is not kept by the local church but is forwarded to the Arizona Conference for allocation as per denominational policy.
The Bible, in Malachi 3:10, instructs us to “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now here with, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” While tithe paying is not held as a test of fellowship the practice of systematic giving yields great spiritual rewards which are not received in any other way.
Freewill Offerings
In addition to returning a faithful tithe, members are encouraged to support various foreign mission projects as well as provide revenue for local church ministries. Funds are also required to maintain the church equipment and facilities. When a high percentage of church members contribute an amount equal to a second tithe, both the local church and the mission outreach programs are usually able to fulfill their respective objectives.
