Givers Embassy Church, a new denomination with roots in a complete ban on tithes and offerings, is a cause for celebration for many Nigerians.
One would wonder why this is newsworthy, but Nigerians generally believe that the subject of tithes and offerings has been used by churches to take advantage of defenseless members.
The prevalent notion that donating tithing or offering is a command that, if observed, brings God’s wrath was refuted by Dr. Edward Olutoke, prevalent Overseer of Givers Embassy Church.
READ ALSO: Age is just a number: 81-Year-Old drummer inspires many as he serves his local church
Nigerians were led to believe that giving gifts and tithes was the only way to win God’s favor, confidence, and acceptance.
Churches ought to address spiritual needs
Christians in Nigeria voluntarily gave to support the expansion and development of their congregations.
Church leaders used the money they received from tithes, levies, the planting of seeds, harvest bazaars, and other activities that drain the congregation’s resources to fund extravagant lifestyles rather than caring for the flock.
At Givers Embassy Church, Dr Olutoke said “in our church, there is no giving of tithes or collection of offerings.”
He claimed that rather than taking advantage of its members’ resources, the church sought to empower them and address their spiritual needs.
“At Givers Embassy, we believe in redefining the traditional concept of church, embracing a holistic approach that addresses the spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of our congregation.”
“We strive to create an atmosphere where people can experience spiritual growth, find purpose, and unlock their full potential. Our ultimate goal is to make a positive impact on society by empowering individuals to live meaningful, fulfilled lives.”
A new way to help members
The church established an Employment Academy under what it refers to as “the poverty fighting squad” in order to fulfill its purpose. The academy will seek out unemployed but trainable members of the congregation, engage them in productive work, provide them with training, and provide financial assistance as they follow their many callings.
He explained that the church’s unique style of worship emphasizes the value of contributing to society while relieving its members of the obligation to make tithes and contributions. He pointed out that the church is supported by the divine triad in Isaiah 43.21, Luke 4.18, and John 14.26.
Olutoke acknowledged the early missionaries’ contributions and dedication to enhancing the lives of the local populations.
“When one looks back, one will discover that early missionaries built schools and hospitals which the poor masses had access to but unfortunately, today, schools and hospitals owned by different churches are out of the reach of their poor members whose offerings and tithes were used to establish these facilities.”
He concluded, “Today, you’ll see a lot of Pastors buying private jets with fleets of cars in their garages while their members wallow in poverty and this is what Givers Embassy is out to correct, apart from the urge to stop the reckless and sometimes insensitive exhibition.”
Givers Embassy will open its Lagos worship centre at NUT Pavillion, Alausa, Ikeja.
READ ALSO: No be Nollywood o: Church on fire as pastor cast out marine spirit physically
I took his name to Cele church: Lady shares relationship testimony
Meanwhile, a Nigerian lady has responded to the controversial topic causing buzz online on how and why the Pastor of Salvation ministries, David Ibiyeomie hated celestial churches.
In a video, the pastor while addressing his congregations revealed that most celestial prophets went the extra length in achieving their desires for a fellow human either good or bad.
In response to the video, @Joyssparkle narrated her own version of how a girl in a hairdressing salon gisted them on how her boyfriend, whom she dated for 8 years, cheated on her and how she retrieved him back.
Recommended posts:
“I stopped going to the church because the pastor only knows how to use one and not help”: Nigerian man narrates ordeal
HAPPY 61st ANNIVERSARY TO AFRICAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH…🎈🎊
Celestial prophet gives Pastor David Ibiyeomie 14 days to apologize
Apostle Johnson Suleman: A close look at one of Nigeria’s most controversial pastors
