Pastor Adeboye’s Apology on Tithing Sparks Reactions Among Religious Leaders

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has drawn widespread reactions after apologizing for a controversial statement made years ago regarding tithing. Religious leaders from the Catholic Church and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), among others, have welcomed his apology, noting that it reflects a positive step towards theological clarity.

Reverend Father Anthony Godonu, Director of Social Communications for the Lagos Catholic Archdiocese, commended Adeboye for retracting his earlier statement that those who do not pay tithes will not enter heaven. Father Godonu emphasized that Adeboye’s previous teaching contradicted the Catholic Church’s stance on salvation, which is not tied to financial contributions. “The Catholic Church teaches that following Jesus Christ and doing the will of the Father is what leads to salvation, not monetary offerings,” Godonu stated. He added that Adeboye’s admission signifies his acceptance of biblical truth, referencing John 8:32: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Similarly, Bishop Abraham Olaleye, former Vice Chairman of the PFN, praised Adeboye for addressing what he termed an “error” in the original teaching. According to Olaleye, Christians live under the dispensation of grace, and salvation is based solely on belief in Jesus Christ, as stated in John 3:16. He clarified that tithing is rooted in Old Testament law, specifically meant for the tribe of Levites in Israel, and should not be applied to modern Christian practices.

Other prominent religious figures also weighed in on the matter. Reverend Prince Obed Ezeonye of Excellent Glory Christian Centre commended Pastor Adeboye’s humility in admitting his mistake, highlighting that the apology demonstrates a willingness to learn. “This is meekness of the highest order,” he said, noting the significance of such an action coming from a high-ranking pastor with a large following.

Reverend Peter Gabriel Elumeze of Activation Church Global shared similar sentiments, emphasizing that Adeboye’s apology reflects his genuine pursuit of God’s will. “If he had crooked intentions, he would not have tendered an apology,” Elumeze remarked, pointing out that Adeboye’s actions set an example for other church leaders.

Pastor Kenny Adenugba of the Commonwealth of Grace (COG) also lauded Adeboye for retracting his previous statement. He noted that many modern-day ministries have distorted the concept of tithing, turning it into a means of financial gain. Adenugba described Adeboye’s apology as a mark of leadership, saying, “It takes a true leader to admit their errors, especially one with such influence.”

The debate surrounding tithing has been a point of contention among Christians. Pastor Olukayode Oyedepo of the Loveesquad Community Church pointed out that tithing, as practiced in the Old Testament, was a Jewish tradition intended to support the Levites. He emphasized that Christians are not bound by Old Testament law, which has fueled the ongoing controversy over its relevance in contemporary Christian worship.