Prepared by William Earnhardt for Sabbath School class, January 21, 2023.

Main Theme: Giving is the very nature of God and those who belong to Him.

Read in Class: Genesis 14:18-20 and Hebrews 7:1-9. What is the common thread of these passages?

Study: What was Abram’s response to meeting Melchizedek? What does this teach us about how far back in history the practice goes?

Apply: Why is it important to understand that tithing, like the Sabbath, was not something that originated in the ancient Israelite legal or even religious system? What message should we, who live after the cross, take from this truth?

Share: Your friend tells you tithing is only an Old Testament practice. What do you tell your friend? See 1 Corinthians9:13-14 and Matthew 23:23.

Read in Class: Leviticus 27:30 and Numbers 18:21,24. Define the common thread of these passages?

Study: What does God propose to do with the tithe?

Apply: Acts 20:35 says it’s more blessed to give than to receive. How has God bless you by returning your tithes and offerings?

Share: Your friend says pastors are lazy and only work one day a week. They do not deserve to be paid. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: 1 Kings 17:9-16. Define the main idea of this passage.

Study: What was the widow’s situation before Elijah came to her? What did the prophet ask her to do first before taking care of herself and her son? What can we learn from this about putting God first in our giving?

Apply: Salvation is by faith and trusting in Jesus. How does returning tithes and offerings reveal how you trust Jesus?

Share: Your friend says he does not have the money to tithe now, but will later when he gets more money. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 and Matthew 25:19-21.

Study: When are we called upon to give an account of our management of God’s funds? What is said to those who have been financially faithful?

Apply: How faithful have you been in your giving? Could Jesus say to you today, “Well done thou good and faithful servant?”

Share: What other ways can you support pastors and Bible workers in your area besides making sure they have a decent salary? Can you reach out to your local pastors and Bible workers this week and let them know you appreciate them and are praying for them? Maybe even pray with them?