Dr. Becky Enenche, wife of Pastor Paul Enenche of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, has ignited widespread debate across social media with her remarks on tithing. Dr. Enenche stated that missing a single tithe payment resets one’s spiritual progress to zero, effectively nullifying all prior tithes paid. Her statement has sparked intense conversations online, with many weighing in on the obligations and implications of tithing within Christianity.
The discussions highlight differing perspectives on religious giving, with some defending its theological importance while others criticize what they perceive as an overemphasis on financial contributions at the expense of spiritual growth and community support. The discourse has been especially active on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, where reactions have been varied and passionate.
Dr. Dickson, who goes by the username @Wizarabi, expressed strong criticism, writing, “Pray tell, Why would a church be having financial target? Big churches in Nigeria with branches, do set financial target for the branch to meet. Is that the gospel? Na why Jesus wipe people oraimo cord inside church. A place of prayer has been turned to a market place.”
Another user, Oke-Oghene (@Andyatunwa), echoed similar sentiments: “Setting financial targets isn’t even the bigger picture. Pastors are sacked when the targets are not met and exceeded. It’s very disgusting. The focus has shifted from the gospel of salvation and love to building business empires.”
Inibehe Effiong, a lawyer and human rights advocate, added to the conversation, stating, “I have never taken the message of forced or compulsory tithing seriously. You can talk to me about seed offering and I will respond according to my conviction. I believe giving to the needy and investing in the betterment of mankind are profound acts of service to God. I don’t pay tithes, and fearmongering will not change my belief. The idea that only those who pay tithes will go to heaven or prosper is laughable to me. If a Church is embarking on a project and needs financial support, I can donate to the development of the project. However, I prefer providing needed material support directly than giving money. Nigerian pastors should stop using fear to extort people.”
Biblical references were also brought into the discussion. A user known as Wannabe Political Saviour quoted scripture, writing, “Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God that he has given you.” — Deuteronomy 16:17 (ESV).
Adding to the dialogue, Ayokanmi (@newlordchubby) asked, “Point I have been trying to make for a few days now, when did Christianity shift from preaching salvation to ‘it’s a must to pay tithe’? When did we even get here?”
Another user, Fontaine (@TheAlchemist_), suggested a financial motivation behind the emphasis on tithing, stating, “You just know church revenue has gone down with the way they’re emphasizing sacrifice and tithing.”
The ongoing debate underscores deep divisions within the Christian community regarding financial practices and the role of money in religious institutions. While some view tithing as an essential act of faith and obedience, others call for a return to the core teachings of Christianity focused on salvation, love, and community support. As the conversations continue, they reflect a broader questioning of religious traditions and their modern applications in an evolving society.
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