A recent sermon clip featuring Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, founder of Christ Embassy, has ignited heated debate among Nigerian Christians over the purpose and proper use of tithes in the church.
The viral video has surfaced amid ongoing discussions about whether tithing remains a valid practice in modern Christianity. Public figures such as media personality Daddy Freeze have openly rejected tithing, calling it unbiblical and misinterpreted.
In the sermon, however, Pastor Chris made it clear that tithes are not meant for charity, nor should they be used to help struggling family members or the poor. According to him, the tithe belongs strictly to God and should be brought to the church in accordance with Scripture.
“You see, God has his ways of doing things. He told you to take your tithe to the house of God; He didn’t say you should give it to your grandmother,” he said.
He went on to state that no matter how noble one’s intentions may be, using tithes for any other purpose outside the church is unacceptable.
“You cannot use your tithe to do good… That tithe belongs to God. It’s not yours to redirect.”
Pastor Chris emphasized that the principle of tithing is tied to divine order and prosperity, describing the “first fruit” as a sacred obligation that should not be reallocated.
“You cannot give your tithe to a suffering person… He lays claim to the first fruit, and that is your assurance of prosperity.”
His statements have drawn mixed reactions online, with many applauding his commitment to biblical principles, while others criticize what they see as a rigid and insensitive interpretation of Christian giving.
Why tithes shouldn’t be given to the poor— Pastor Oyakhilome
