Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly apologized for previously teaching that failing to pay tithes would prevent believers from entering heaven.
In a candid admission during a sermon at the ongoing RCCG national youth convention, Adeboye acknowledged that his earlier statements were incorrect and not biblically supported.
“I want to apologize for saying that if you don’t pay tithes, you will not make heaven,” he declared. “That is not in the Bible. The scripture teaches us to follow peace with all men and pursue holiness, without which no one will see God.”
Adeboye used the moment to reflect on the possibility of being both right and wrong, drawing a parallel with changing scientific understanding over time. He explained that while tithing is important for spiritual growth and blessings, it is not a condition for salvation.
The pastor also emphasized the value of giving generously to God’s work, sharing stories of how faith and sacrificial giving have brought immense blessings to many. Nonetheless, he clarified that tithing should not be tied to fear or misconceptions about eternal life.
His message was clear: while tithing has spiritual benefits, it is peace, holiness, and living a life aligned with God’s word that ultimately leads to salvation, not financial offerings.