"Tithes are not to be used for funeral contributions" — Ola Michael

Ola Michael

Media personality Ola Michael has sparked fresh debate on the role and management of tithes within churches, arguing that the practice has drifted from its original spiritual purpose.

Speaking during a discussion on United Showbiz, Ola Michael asserted that tithes are not meant to be used as funds for social occasions or the welfare of church members, including funeral contributions. According to him, the core purpose of tithing is to support church operations rather than serve as a financial pool for miscellaneous activities.

He further expressed concern about what he described as a growing trend where Christians feel pressured or compelled to give tithes, suggesting that the practice is gradually shifting believers away from genuine faith-based giving. In his view, tithing should remain a personal act of faith between the individual and God, rather than an obligation monitored by church authorities.

Ola Michael also criticized the documentation of tithes, arguing that keeping detailed records undermines the spiritual essence of the practice. He noted that when churches track contributions, it transforms a faith-driven act into one of accountability, which he believes contradicts the intended purpose of tithing.

Adding to his concerns, he alleged that some churches use financial records as a basis for administrative decisions, including the transfer of pastors. According to him, pastors who fail to meet certain financial expectations are sometimes reassigned from major congregations to smaller, rural branches.