Billy Graham on tithing: Christians should tithe as a way to 'give to God's work'

Famous evangelist Billy Graham encouraged believers to tithe not only to help supply the needs of the church but also to glorify God by expressing thanks through giving.

Writing in an online news column, Graham answered a question about a church's fund raising campaign.

"Our church has just been through its annual drive to raise money for its budget, and to be honest I got tired of hearing our preacher talk about money all the time. Did Jesus ever pressure people to give money?" the question stated.

Graham explained that Jesus never pressured or even asked anybody to support his ministry financially, although the Bible mentions that His work was supported by some wealthy women. However, this does not mean that it's wrong for churches to be reminded about giving, Graham said.

He reminded that according to the Apostle Paul, financial giving "is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God."

Regarding church leaders who put too much emphasis on giving and raising funds, Graham said the issue is between them and God. He encouraged believers to not be discouraged from being generous and said that Jesus should be the example of every Christian. Jesus, who owned everything, gave up everything including His own life so that the mankind would be saved.

The evangelist reminded readers that everything they possess is given by God, and that includes money.

"We can't take credit for it, nor should be use it selfishly or thoughtlessly," he wrote.

Because money comes from God, one should strive to use it wisely and in a way that honors God, according to Graham. By giving to God's work through tithing, one can give back to God "a portion of what He has already given us," he added.