Tithing and Consecration

It is easy to turn to the scriptures and say: this is what it says, so we ought to follow this to the letter. Of course, the scriptures say many things, and we habitually pick and choose what to follow literally.  Take, for example the doctrine on tithing. The revelation on tithing we have (D+C 119) states quite clearly that we ought to pay a tithe on our surplus property.  All these pointless debates over net or gross can be dispensed with by turning to the written revelation itself.  However, again, context is important. We ought not be Pharisees and become rigid doctors of the law. We ought to strive to uncover the message in tithing – it’s not about ‘fire insurance’ or ‘learning how to sacrifice’.  Look at the revelations on consecration. Think about the two together.  Think about what the Lord was wanting us to think about when we implemented these.  Our failure to learn consecration resulted in giving us a watered-down version (tithing).  Until we learn the lesson of tithing, we cannot follow consecration proper.  Tithing is not a ‘lower’ law – it is part of consecration, and points to its deeper meaning. But tithing is also easier to follow and implement. If done correctly, our thinking will naturally be led to a deeper understanding of consecration, allowing us to realise its purpose as a natural part of our spiritual development.  The ‘little season’ refers to a change in our thinking – or in biblical terminology, a repentance process. Only until our own season has changed within are we prepared to understand and undertake the tasks the Lord would have us do.