Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly apologized for previously claiming that Christians who do not pay tithes might not enter heaven. The 82-year-old cleric, known as “Daddy GO,” addressed the issue during the RCCG Youth Convention in October 2024, admitting that his past statement was incorrect.
“I apologize for saying that if you don’t pay tithe, you may not make it to heaven. That’s wrong, and it’s not in the Bible,” Adeboye said, explaining that the correct biblical teaching is to “follow peace with all men and holiness, without which no man shall see God.”
In a 2020 sermon, Adeboye had suggested that paying tithe was a requirement for salvation, a statement that generated significant debate within Christian circles. However, during his recent address, he acknowledged that his earlier teaching was mistaken and expressed regret.
Adeboye also touched on the topic of tithing more broadly, stating that while 10% is often viewed as the standard contribution, he believes that those who are able should give more, suggesting amounts of 20%, 30%, or even 40%. He described the 10% tithe as a starting point for beginners and emphasized the importance of financial commitment in one’s faith.
“It is possible to be right and wrong at the same time,” Adeboye said, referring to his earlier position on tithing. He further indicated that he plans to offer a more detailed explanation of his views on tithing in the near future, once he receives divine direction.
The apology has sparked widespread discussion on social media. Many applauded Adeboye for owning up to his mistake, while others expressed concern about the call for increased tithing, especially given Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
Despite the controversy, Pastor Adeboye remains a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s Christian community, with his leadership continuing to influence millions of believers globally.
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