In response to the ongoing debate over tithing, journalist and Bible teacher Lanre Ogundipe has voiced concerns regarding recent statements made by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Ogundipe's commentary has stirred important discussions about authenticity in faith practices within the Christian community in Nigeria.
Ogundipe, who has refrained from engaging in the controversial discourse surrounding tithing, referenced insights he gained nearly two decades ago during discussions with Rev. (Dr.) Paul Jinadu, an esteemed leader within the Christian faith. He emphasized that recent events evoke thoughts from that dialogue, indicating a recurring need for introspection among Christian leaders.
The controversy intensified following a video in which Adeboye issued what was termed a "public apology" for earlier statements asserting that believers who refuse to tithe would not enter heaven. Ogundipe scrutinized the message, suggesting that it failed to convey genuine remorse and instead seemed to reinforce Adeboye's stance on tithing. He pointed out that the pastor's words were laden with manipulative undertones rather than clear contrition.
“My aim is not to condemn or judge the pastor but to illuminate the need for the body of Christ in Nigeria to renounce misleading doctrines and commercialized interpretations of the faith,” Ogundipe stated. He urged the Christian community—regardless of their denomination—to embrace a return to the foundational teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing a collective need for repentance.
Referencing biblical accounts, Ogundipe warned against the dangers of ignoring divine messages, drawing parallels between the Amalekites' fate and the current situation of the Nigerian church. He called on leaders to recognize that persistent sin could lead to judgment, echoing sentiments from scripture that emphasize the consequences of turning away from God.
In his critique, Ogundipe noted that a subsequent video from Adeboye failed to address the core issues at hand, reiterating a belief in mandatory tithing. “Such statements indicate that there remains a lack of full understanding of the Gospel's message among many prominent pastors in Nigeria,” he remarked.
He reiterated a call for humility and repentance among church leaders, invoking Psalm 51:7, which speaks to God’s desire for a broken and contrite heart. Ogundipe urged pastors to refrain from manipulating scripture and to seek God’s guidance genuinely.
“We must strive for a revival rooted in authenticity, free from distortions that hinder the true expansion of God’s Kingdom,” he concluded, hoping for a return to the genuine faith initially passed down to believers.