Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the renowned founder of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly apologized for his previous statements on tithing. The apology, which has gone viral on social media, has reignited discussions about church finances and religious practices in Nigeria, drawing both praise and scrutiny from various quarters.
On a warm Sunday afternoon in Lagos, the air thick with humidity and anticipation, Pastor Adeboye stood before his congregation, his voice steady as he addressed a topic that has long been contentious in religious circles.
I’m going to be apologizing for saying, ‘If you don’t pay tithe, you won’t make it to heaven,'” Adeboye stated, his words echoing through the packed auditorium. “I’m sorry, that’s wrong, and it’s not in the Bible.”
The pastor’s admission sent ripples through the audience, with many congregants visibly moved by his candor. Adeboye went on to clarify, “What the Bible says is, ‘Follow peace with all men and holiness which no man shall see God’.”
This unexpected apology marks a significant shift in the narrative surrounding tithing, a practice that has been a cornerstone of many Christian denominations’ financial structures.
As news of Adeboye’s apology spread, reactions poured in from across Nigeria and beyond. Social media platforms buzzed with activity, with many praising the pastor for his humility and willingness to correct a long-held stance.
However, not all reactions were positive. Some critics questioned why it took so long for this correction to be made, given the financial impact on countless believers over the years.
Adeboye’s statement comes amidst a growing trend of Nigerian clergymen reassessing traditional church financial practices. In May 2024, an unnamed pastor in Abuja made headlines when he suspended the collection of offerings in his church, citing economic hardship faced by his congregation.
“We cannot continue to collect from those who have nothing,” the Abuja pastor declared, his voice filled with emotion. “Until the economy improves, we will find other ways to sustain our ministry.”
This bold move was met with widespread approval, with many calling for other religious leaders to follow suit.
Adding his voice to the conversation, Pastor W.F. Kumuyi, founder of the Deeper Life Bible Church, recently shared a sermon that further challenged conventional church financial practices.
Kumuyi advised his followers, “Give your offerings to the poor and unemployed in the community. Don’t just focus on building grand churches when your neighbors can’t afford basic necessities.
This shift towards community-focused giving represents a significant departure from traditional tithing practices, reflecting a growing awareness of socio-economic realities among religious leaders.
The discussion has even drawn commentary from unexpected quarters. Charles Oputa, better known as Charly Boy, a popular Nigerian entertainer and activist, recently posed a provocative question on social media regarding the purpose of religion.
Responding to a viral video of Pastor Adeboye requesting substantial offerings, Charly Boy wrote, “Is religion just another business? Are these ‘men of God’ really running a Jesus enterprise?
His comments, while controversial, highlight the growing scrutiny of church finances in the public sphere.
As the dust settles on Adeboye’s apology, questions remain about how this shift in rhetoric will impact church practices across Nigeria. Will other prominent religious leaders follow suit? How will congregations respond to these changes?
As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges, the role of religious institutions in addressing societal needs is likely to come under increased scrutiny. Adeboye’s apology may well be remembered as a turning point in this ongoing conversation.
Pastor Adeboye’s apology for his previous statements on tithing has opened up a broader dialogue about church finances and religious practices in Nigeria. As leaders like Adeboye and Kumuyi advocate for more community-focused approaches to giving, and voices from outside the church weigh in on the debate, it’s clear that the landscape of religious financial practices in Nigeria is evolving. Only time will tell how these changes will shape the future of faith and finance in Africa’s most populous nation.
