“No Offering Goes to Heaven”: Pastor Abel Damina Stirs Controversy With Bold Truth About Church Giving

In a message that has ignited widespread discussion across religious and social media circles, Nigerian pastor and outspoken theologian Dr. Abel Damina has challenged a long-standing perception within the Christian faith, declaring unequivocally that “No offering goes to heaven.” The senior pastor of Power City International made this statement during a recent sermon, adding, “Every time we gather offering in church, it is men that spend it.” The comment, though direct, has resonated with many who have long questioned how financial contributions to churches are used, while simultaneously drawing criticism from those who feel his words undermine sacred aspects of giving.

Pastor Damina, known for his critical theological approach and no-nonsense style of preaching, did not mince words as he dismantled the idea that offering is a direct transaction with heaven. He stressed that offerings collected in churches are entirely handled by human beings on earth and not mystically transported to the heavens as some believers might imagine. According to him, this reality is a basic truth that should be acknowledged and understood by every churchgoer. His message was not necessarily an attack on the act of giving but rather a call for clarity, honesty, and accountability in the way religious institutions present and manage offerings.

This revelation comes at a time when there is increasing scrutiny of church finances in Nigeria and beyond. With the rise of megachurches and the visible wealth of some clergy members, congregants and critics alike have questioned the transparency of how church funds are collected, managed, and disbursed. Pastor Damina’s comments add a bold voice to a conversation that is often treated as taboo in many religious settings. His candor has earned him a reputation as a reformist who seeks to demystify and reframe traditional Christian doctrines to reflect practical realities and biblical accuracy.

While some have praised Damina for saying what many have quietly believed, others have accused him of sowing seeds of doubt in the minds of faithful givers. Religious giving is considered an act of worship in many Christian circles. For some, it’s an expression of faith and trust in God’s provision. However, Damina argues that spiritualizing the logistics of offering collection can mislead believers into thinking their money is literally transferred to a celestial account. He insists that recognizing the human element in offering management does not diminish the spiritual intention behind the act but rather encourages stewardship and responsibility within the church.

The controversial quote has gone viral on social platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, sparking intense debates. Some users applauded the pastor for shedding light on what they consider to be manipulative teachings that exploit the generosity of believers. Others felt the statement, though factual, lacked pastoral sensitivity and could be misinterpreted by new believers or those already skeptical of organized religion. “Finally, someone is saying it as it is. We’ve been brainwashed for too long,” wrote one commenter on Facebook. Another added, “Yes, offerings don’t fly to heaven, but does that mean we stop giving? What about supporting the work of God?”

Interestingly, Pastor Damina did not discourage giving altogether. In fact, he emphasized that giving is biblical and necessary for the growth and maintenance of the church. What he challenged was the notion that the act of offering is some kind of direct heavenly transaction. “Offerings are used to pay bills, fund missions, buy equipment, support pastors, and run church programs,” he explained. “There is nothing mystical about it. God doesn’t need your money. The church does. Be clear on that.”

His interpretation is grounded in a theological perspective that aims to strip away myths and traditions that have no scriptural basis. He pointed out that in the New Testament, believers gave freely and joyfully, not under pressure or false spiritual promises. He urged churches to teach giving with honesty, focusing on generosity, love, and purpose rather than fear, guilt, or the promise of supernatural financial returns. According to him, manipulating believers to give through emotional or spiritual coercion is both unethical and unchristian.

For many, Damina’s message is a breath of fresh air in a religious climate where prosperity preaching still holds sway. His call for financial transparency and doctrinal accuracy is one that resonates especially with younger generations who value authenticity and accountability in religious leadership. At the same time, his teachings have made him a target of criticism from more traditional or conservative sectors of the Christian faith who view such declarations as irreverent or disruptive.

This isn’t the first time Pastor Damina has stirred the waters with his teachings. Over the years, he has challenged doctrines like tithing, deliverance, and generational curses, encouraging believers to search the scriptures for themselves and question teachings that seem inconsistent with the New Covenant of grace. His approach is scholarly, bold, and often controversial, but undeniably impactful in encouraging believers to think critically about their faith.

As reactions continue to pour in, one thing is clear: Damina’s statement has forced a broader conversation about the nature of giving in the church. Should churches do more to educate their congregations on how funds are used? Should believers demand financial reports and transparency from their leaders? And most importantly, how can the church maintain a healthy balance between spiritual principles and earthly administration?

Whether one agrees with Pastor Damina or not, his message has spotlighted an uncomfortable truth that many have either ignored or accepted without question. By stripping away the mystical aura surrounding offerings, he has brought attention to the very real, tangible responsibilities that come with giving — and receiving — in a religious context. He insists that being spiritually minded does not mean being financially naïve.

As churches around the world continue to evolve and adapt to changing times, voices like Damina’s may become increasingly relevant. His emphasis on doctrinal accuracy, financial accountability, and honest teaching might just be what the church needs in an era where blind faith is no longer enough. His message serves as a wake-up call to both leaders and laity: faith must not only be heartfelt but also informed, responsible, and grounded in truth.