Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly apologized for a previous statement in which he suggested that Christians who don’t pay tithe might not make it to heaven.
In a video circulating on social media, the 82-year-old cleric addressed his congregation, acknowledging that his earlier claim was incorrect and a misinterpretation of the Bible.
“I apologize for saying ‘If you don’t pay tithe, you might not make it to heaven.’ I’m sorry, that’s wrong, and it’s not in the Bible. What the Bible says is ‘Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see God’,” Adeboye said.
Adeboye admitted that his statement was a mistake and clarified that the Bible does not specifically mention the need to pay tithes to enter heaven.
The pastor also touched on the concept of tithing itself, explaining that while some members of his church pay 10%, others may choose to give 20% or even 30%. He referred to 10% as a starting point for beginners.
In his own words, Adeboye added, “It is possible to be right and wrong at the same time. I will prove it to you. I’m a scientist, so I know that for years we believed light travels straight. Later, we discovered light travels in waves. It is wrong to limit you to 10 percent when someone is talking of 20, 30, 40 percent. 10 percent should be for beginners. I believe God will give me an opportunity very soon to give you the details.”
Social Media Reactions to Adeboye’s Apology
Adeboye’s apology sparked discussions across social media platforms. Some praised him for owning up to his mistake and offering an apology, while others criticized his suggestion of committing more than 10% of earnings to tithe, especially during the current economic challenges in the country.
Here are some reactions from users on X regarding Adeboye’s apology.
I want to congratulate everyone who dragged Pastor Adeboye for his unbiblical, cynical, & greedy teaching that you must pay tithes to make heaven.
— Seun Osewa 🇳🇬 (@seunosewa) October 4, 2024
That it took so long for him to repent suggests that he doesn't have a close relationship with the Holy Spirit. Think about it. 🤔 https://t.co/56MEkGKNBo
Pastor Adeboye apologizes for an error, you are still dragging him. God will deliver you from the spirit of Pharisees.
— THE ENLIGHTENED ONE (@realdongabriel) October 4, 2024
Economy is biting hard, so it’s understandable why Pastor Adeboye wants to jack up tithe from 10% to 40%.
— Máfejópamí (@VillageParrot) October 4, 2024
You will hate to hear it but many of you will continue to tell you that tithes are fraudulent and not mandated for Christians. It was law for the Israelites, not you!
Pastor Adeboye first said if you don’t pay tithe you won’t make heaven/be financially stable .. God then whispered to him to apologize, he realized his mistakes, and did as instructed. To err is human, to forgive is divine.. Praise master Jesus .
— TONEE C (@toneecofficial) October 4, 2024
— Ecclesiastes 7:20 pic.twitter.com/M5eiuJxQuT
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