Elder Jorge T. Becerra Speaks on Tithing at LDS General Conference

Apostle emphasizes putting God first through financial obedience

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:36pm

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Elder Jorge T. Becerra, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered a talk during the Saturday morning session of the church's 196th Annual General Conference in Salt Lake City. Elder Becerra's address focused on the importance of tithing and putting God first in one's life, drawing parallels to teachings from the Book of Mormon and the example of Jesus Christ.

Why it matters

Elder Becerra's message on tithing and spiritual blessings reinforces core LDS teachings about financial obedience and the role of sacrifice in deepening one's relationship with God. As a high-ranking church leader, his words carry significant weight and influence among the global LDS community.

The details

In his talk, Elder Becerra referenced the Book of Mormon story of the people of Gideon, who were warned against the 'dilemma of doublemindedness' that had afflicted their neighbors in Zarahemla. He taught that by focusing first on God and paying tithes and offerings, individuals can enhance their spiritual capacity and receive blessings they had not previously experienced. Elder Becerra pointed to the example of Jesus Christ as the perfect model of putting God the Father first, even to the point of sacrificing His own life.

  • Elder Becerra delivered his address during the Saturday morning session of the 196th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 4, 2026.

The players

Elder Jorge T. Becerra

A General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving as the second counselor in the Utah Area presidency.

Debbie I. Schneberger

Elder Becerra's wife, whom he met while serving as a young missionary in the California Arcadia Mission.

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What they’re saying

“From the beginning of time God has taught His children to put Him first in their lives.”

— Elder Jorge T. Becerra, General Authority Seventy

“Payment of tithes and offerings will enhance our spiritual capacity as we put God first and offer our 'firstlings of the flock.'”

— Elder Jorge T. Becerra, General Authority Seventy

“Jesus Christ is the perfect example of how to put God first in our lives.”

— Elder Jorge T. Becerra, General Authority Seventy

The takeaway

Elder Becerra's message on tithing and spiritual blessings underscores the LDS Church's longstanding emphasis on financial obedience and sacrifice as a means of deepening one's relationship with God. His words carry significant weight among the global LDS community and reinforce core teachings about the role of tithing in enhancing one's spiritual capacity.