In the winter of 1858-59 instruction was given to the effect that the Bible contained a complete system for the support of the ministry, and that if our people would study the subject from a scriptural standpoint they would find that system. Accordingly a Bible class was held in Battle Creek, over which Elder J. N. Andrews presided. After careful and prayerful study of the Scriptures, an article was prepared and published in the Review of Feb. 3, 1859, presenting a plan that embraced the principle of tithing. An address on that subject was submitted to a large gathering of our people, assembled in a general meeting in Battle Creek, Mich., June 6, 1859, and unanimously adopted by a vote of the entire assembly. GSAM 349.1