Pastor Adeboye apologises over comment on non-tithers not making heaven

He recanted his earlier statement that non-tithers won’t make heaven, clarifying his stance and apologising for the misinterpretation.

[dropcap]P[/dropcap]astor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly apologised for his earlier statement that non-tithers will not make heaven.

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In a viral video, Adeboye retracted the controversial comment, which had sparked widespread debate among Christians.

Addressing the issue, Adeboye said, “I’m apologising for saying if you don’t pay tithe, you won’t make it to heaven. I’m sorry. What the Bible says is, ‘Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see God.’”

This apology comes amid ongoing debates over tithing in Nigerian churches.

Pastor Abel Damina, a prominent theologian and founder of Kingdom Life Network (KLN), has long criticised certain teachings of Nigerian Pentecostal pastors, arguing that they misinterpret the Bible for selfish reasons.

Damina’s stance challenges common teachings around tithing and other doctrines, questioning their biblical accuracy.

The issue of tithing has been a point of contention, with other notable pastors, such as David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries, presenting differing views.

Ibiyeomie previously claimed that Adam’s sin in the Garden of Eden involved touching the tithe, a statement that has also drawn scrutiny.

However, the Bible in Genesis 3:2-3 refers to God’s instruction to avoid eating from a particular tree, with no mention of tithing.

Adeboye’s apology is seen by many as a step toward re-evaluating traditional teachings within Nigerian Pentecostalism.

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Whether more pastors will follow his lead and reconsider such doctrines remains to be seen, but the discussion has reignited focus on accurate biblical interpretation in the church.