The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has reiterated his stance on tithing, clarifying that he never advised Christians to stop paying their tithes. This clarification comes after his recent apology, where he stated that anyone who fails to pay tithes would not make it to heaven.
During the October Holy Ghost Service held at the Redemption City along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State, on Saturday, Adeboye addressed the misunderstandings surrounding his comments.
Apology Misinterpreted
Pastor Adeboye expressed surprise at how quickly misinformation spread online regarding his remarks on tithing. He stated, “The issue of tithing became contentious, and I decided to apologise for anything I might have said wrong. Yet, within an hour, it was being circulated online that I said Christians should stop paying tithes.”
Encouragement to Give More
The cleric explained that his intention was to encourage believers to increase their giving beyond the traditional 10% tithe. He referenced a personal encounter at Kenneth Hagin’s church, where he learned of a man whose financial situation improved significantly after he committed to tithing 90% of his income.
“I’m close to giving 90 percent but I am far from 10 percent,” Adeboye said. “It is wrong to limit yourself to 10 percent when God can take you to a higher percentage. As you grow in the Lord, you should grow in praising Him, winning souls, and in giving.”
Minimum Tithe and Further Clarification
He emphasized that the 10% tithe is merely the minimum expectation from God, stating, “From now on, begin to increase what you give.” Adeboye lamented that the only aspect of his message that garnered attention online was his apology, leading to the misconception that he no longer endorses tithing.
In conclusion, Pastor Adeboye firmly reiterated that the practice of tithing remains an integral part of Christian faith, and he encourages believers to view it as a starting point for their generosity.