Pastor David Ibiyeomie, founder of Salvation Ministries, has cautioned Christians against purchasing Christmas clothes before paying their tithes, describing the practice as dangerous.
The cleric gave the warning during a church sermon on Sunday in a video that has since gone viral on social media. Addressing his congregation ahead of the festive season, Ibiyeomie urged believers not to prioritize buying Christmas outfits over fulfilling their tithing obligations.
“The year is ending; don’t buy Christmas clothes when you have not paid tithe. It’s dangerous. It’s very dangerous,” he said.
He further cautioned Christians against withholding or diverting their tithes during the Christmas period, warning that failure to pay them could expose believers to misfortunes.
The warning reignites debate over tithing and its place in Christian practice.
His framing of unpaid tithes as “dangerous” links financial giving to spiritual safety.
Critics may argue the message prioritises church income over family welfare during a costly season.
Supporters may see it as a call to honour God before material indulgence.
The viral response shows how tithing remains one of Nigeria’s most contested religious topics.
