If you don’t pay tithe, you cannot go to heaven. That is criminal” — Odumeje criticises churches over tithing teachings
“If you don’t pay tithe, you cannot go to heaven. That is criminal” — Odumeje criticises churches over tithing teachings
Anambra-based cleric Prophet Odumeje has sparked reactions online after criticising churches that make tithing a major focus of their teachings, particularly when it is presented as a condition for salvation or receiving blessings from God.
In a video circulating on social media, Odumeje argued that Christians should not be made to believe that failing to pay tithes would prevent them from entering heaven or receiving divine blessings.
Odumeje speaks on tithing
The prophet questioned the practice of placing excessive emphasis on tithe payments during church teachings, insisting that giving should be a personal matter between an individual and God.
He said:
> “If you don’t pay your tithe, you cannot go to heaven. If you don’t pay your tithe, God will not bless you. I am not here for that kind of nonsense.”
Odumeje clarified that he believes tithing is real but argued that it should not overshadow other aspects of Christian teaching.
He added:
> “If you want to pay God’s tithe, it’s between you and God. Tithe is real, but that is not why you’re being in church to be teaching.”
‘That is criminal’
Odumeje further described it as “criminal” for churches to place excessive emphasis on tithing by presenting it as a requirement for receiving blessings from God.
He said:
> “That is criminal. And God can never perform the kind miracle he is performing in those kind of churches.”
The cleric also alleged that some churches experience financial prosperity because their members have been subjected to what he described as brainwashing.
He stated:
> “They will be prospering because you submitted to their brainwash. That’s all.”
Odumeje’s comments spark discussion
The prophet’s remarks have added to ongoing conversations about tithing, church finances and the role of giving in Christian worship.
While Odumeje maintained that tithing should remain a personal decision, his comments have drawn attention to differing views among Christians about the practice and how churches should teach it.
AB
