Houston megachurch pastor Keion Henderson has sparked controversy after a sermon discouraging his congregation from giving to the poor. In a recent sermon at The Lighthouse Church & Ministries, Henderson told his followers there is no divine blessing in charity, unlike tithing. His remarks have stirred widespread criticism, both from his church and the larger Christian community.
“There is no blessing connected to blessing the poor, other than getting back what you gave to them,” Henderson said during the sermon. He added that “multiplication is segregated for tithes and offerings,” emphasizing that tithing to the church is the only way to receive a multiplied blessing.
Pastor Keion Henderson Faces Public Backlash
Henderson’s comments quickly circulated online, with many expressing outrage. A social media user criticized his stance, saying, “Tithes go to you, sir. You’re not getting my money. I will give to the poor.” Others felt that the pastor was using his platform to manipulate congregants into prioritizing church donations over helping those in need.
Pastor John Wesley of Truth Unveiling Ministries disagreed with Henderson’s message, stating that it goes against biblical teachings. “It’s more blessed to give than to receive,” Wesley said, quoting Acts 20:35. He also referenced Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:45, where the Lord warns against neglecting the hungry and needy.
Clarification From The Church
In response to the backlash, The Lighthouse Church released a statement defending the message Henderson gave to the congregation. Brian Smith, a church spokesperson, explained that the sermon was misunderstood. “The point was that tithing and charitable giving should not be mutually exclusive. The Bible speaks of multiplication through tithing,” Smith said. He further noted the church’s long history of charitable giving, highlighting their $451,000 in donations this year alone.
Despite the church’s clarification, many remain unconvinced. Pastor Sydney Hart of Beulah Missionary Baptist Church commented on the issue, saying, “Giving to the poor is viewed as lending to God Himself, and God promises to reward the giver.”
For many, the message Henderson was sending felt like a departure from the biblical principles of charity and compassion for the less fortunate.