The Support of Missions by A. G. DANIELLS

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Nov 26, 1908

The Support of Missions

By A. G. DANIELLS

WHAT does the command to preach the gospel to all the world mean to those who can not go? Have they any sacrifice to make?—Surely they must have. It is impossible that all the sacrifice pertains to those who go. Those who stay must remember with affection and solicitude those who go. They must pray that, as the work develops, the Lord will send more laborers to join them in carrying the increasing burdens. They must pray for the support of those who are giving their lives to the work.

Besides praying for their support, those who remain at home must give of their means to support those who have gone to the front. This is a vital, fundamental point in the great, pressing problem of foreign missions.

The Scriptures plainly teach that man is only a steward of that which comes into his hands. A steward must do with that entrusted to his care as he may be directed by the real possessor. God has given very definite and positive instruction with reference to the use of a portion of the goods with which he entrusts men. He says: “All the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s: it is holy unto the Lord.” Lev. 27:30. To those who have not recognized God’s reservation of the tithe, he says: “Ye have robbed me . . . in tithes and offerings. . . . Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat [supplies] in mine house.” Mal. 3:8-10.

The purpose for which the tithe of all that God gives us is to be used, is the support of those who give their lives to the work of the gospel.

Seventh-day Adventists observe the tithing system, and pay a tithe of their earnings. Accurate accounts are kept of all tithes received by the treasurers, and they disburse these funds by order of boards of management. All accounts are audited annually by auditors appointed by the people, and full financial reports are given in the church papers.

But in addition to the payment of tithes for the support of gospel workers, there are demands for large gifts to provide church buildings, and educational, hospital, and publishing facilities in mission fields. These demands are imperative. A full, complete work of evangelization can not be done without them. It is for this work in behalf of the needy millions that we ask for gifts from those who are enjoying the blessings of the gospel of Christ.

A. G. DANIELLS,

President of the Seventh-day Adventist General Conference.