By Jones Gadama

In recent years, the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church has adopted a practice that raises significant concerns among its members: the establishment of specific tithe goals or targets for individual congregations.

This approach, which places undue pressure on local churches to meet predetermined financial benchmarks, strays from the biblical principles that should guide the faithful in their giving. The imposition of tithe targets not only distorts the true meaning of tithing but also reflects a troubling shift towards a culture driven by financial metrics rather than spiritual growth and genuine generosity.

At the heart of the issue lies the fundamental understanding of what tithing is meant to represent.

In the Bible, tithing is presented as a voluntary act of worship and gratitude, a response to God’s blessings in one’s life. The scriptural basis for tithing is clear: it is an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and provision, where individuals are called to give a portion of their earnings—specifically, ten percent—as an expression of faith.

However, the introduction of tithe goals transforms this sacred act into a transactional obligation, where the focus shifts from personal conviction to meeting institutional demands.

The Bible does not provide any precedent for setting tithe targets. In fact, the practice of tithing as outlined in the Scriptures emphasizes personal responsibility and the individual’s relationship with God.

Each person is called to give according to their means, as stated in 2 Corinthians 9:7, which encourages believers to give “not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This principle underscores the importance of voluntary giving, free from external pressures or expectations. By imposing tithe goals, the SDA Church risks undermining this biblical foundation, creating an environment where members may feel coerced into giving rather than inspired to do so.

Moreover, the establishment of tithe targets can lead to a culture of comparison and competition among congregations. When churches are pitted against one another in a race to meet financial goals, the focus shifts from spiritual growth and community service to financial performance.

This competitive atmosphere can breed resentment and disillusionment among members, who may feel that their contributions are being evaluated solely on the basis of numbers rather than the heart behind the giving. Such a mindset is antithetical to the teachings of Christ, who emphasized the importance of the heart’s intent over outward appearances.

The consequences of this shift are far-reaching. When the church prioritizes financial targets over spiritual integrity, it risks alienating its members, particularly those who may be struggling financially.

For many, the pressure to meet tithe goals can lead to feelings of guilt and inadequacy, as they may not be able to contribute as much as others. This can create a sense of exclusion within the church community, where individuals feel judged based on their financial contributions rather than their faith and commitment to God.

The church should be a place of acceptance and support, not a space where members feel marginalized due to their financial circumstances.

Furthermore, the emphasis on tithe goals can inadvertently foster a culture of greed within the church. When financial success becomes a primary measure of a church’s health and vitality, it can lead to a distorted understanding of stewardship.

Instead of viewing tithing as a means of supporting the church’s mission and helping those in need, members may begin to see it as a way to achieve status or recognition within the congregation. This shift in perspective can erode the foundational principles of generosity and selflessness that should characterize the Christian life.

The biblical narrative consistently emphasizes the importance of caring for the marginalized and using resources to uplift those in need.

In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus teaches that acts of kindness towards the least among us are equivalent to serving Him. When the church becomes preoccupied with meeting financial targets, it risks neglecting its responsibility to serve the community and address pressing social issues.

The focus on tithe goals can divert attention and resources away from outreach programs, humanitarian efforts, and support for those who are struggling, ultimately undermining the church’s mission to be a light in the world.

It is essential for the SDA Church to reevaluate its approach to tithing and financial stewardship. Rather than imposing arbitrary goals, church leaders should encourage a culture of generosity that is rooted in biblical principles.

This can be achieved by fostering an environment where members feel empowered to give according to their means, without fear of judgment or comparison.

By emphasizing the spiritual significance of tithing and encouraging open discussions about financial stewardship, the church can help its members develop a deeper understanding of the role that giving plays in their faith journey.

Additionally, the church should prioritize transparency and accountability in its financial practices.

Members should be informed about how their contributions are being used and the impact they are making in the community.

By demonstrating a commitment to responsible stewardship, the church can build trust among its members and encourage a spirit of generosity that is motivated by love and gratitude rather than obligation.

The establishment of tithe goals within the SDA Church represents a departure from the biblical principles that should guide the faithful in their giving.

By imposing financial targets, the church risks distorting the true meaning of tithing, fostering a culture of comparison and competition, and inadvertently promoting greed. It is crucial for the church to return to its roots, emphasizing the importance of voluntary giving and the heart behind the act of tithing.


By doing so, the SDA Church can create an environment that nurtures spiritual growth, fosters community, and reflects the love of Christ in all aspects of its mission. The call for reflection is urgent, as the church must strive to align its practices with the teachings of Scripture and the values of the Kingdom of God.