“Credibility is key and foundational to continuous giving by members” _ Abioye clarifies on tithes, others

Bishop David Olatunji Abioye, formally first vice chairman of the Living Faith Church Worldwide has commented on the contentious issue of tithing, citing poor management of church finances as a key factor in the skepticism surrounding the practice.

According to Abioye, transparency and accountability are essential in the handling of church resources.

He stressed the need for every Christian ministry to have clean and open financial records, allowing leaders to maintain open books to foster trust among congregants.

Abioye said that credibility is crucial in maintaining the trust of congregation members.

According to him, when people see how resources are being used, they are more likely to give generously.

The bishop’s comment is rife given the growing scrutiny of tithing practices, particularly among younger generations who demand greater accountability from church leaders.

He said: “Perhaps the reason why many people query the subject of tithing is because of poor management of God’s resources. Let us study properly. What are we to do when people give?

“If you cannot be trusted as a pastor or leader of any ministry, it will question people’s giving. This is where the major issue is and this is why I think people attack the subject of tithing.

“Because they think it’s only the pastor that consumes it. In every ministry there should be a financial record, clean enough and open to others. Maybe not to the entire church for the purpose of security, but you have leaders, open the books.

“Let people see what you are doing. Credibility is key and foundational to continuous giving of members. When people see what is being done with the resources they give, they’re inspired more to give. Credibility is very critical.

“When people can’t believe you, what you do with the resources, they start querying it. Especially in this very sensitive generation where people ask questions”.