A sermon that went viral on TikTok has Kenyan Christians locked in a heated debate over a contentious question: should the faithful tithe on borrowed money? The sermon, delivered by Rev. Lydia Kahiga of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA), urged congregants to give 10 percent of their loans as an offering, sparking a theological firestorm that has exposed deep divisions among clergy on matters of faith and finance.

The core of the debate is whether a loan, which is a debt, can be considered an 'income' or 'increase' subject to tithing. Rev. Kahiga's position is that dedicating a tenth of a loan to the church is an act of faith that can provoke divine intervention in clearing the debt. "Go and count all your debts that you have... If it reaches Sh152,000, go out there and ask God to bless you with Sh15,200 only, then bring it immediately to the altar," she preached in the widely circulated clip.

A Doctrine Divided

This teaching has drawn sharp criticism from other religious leaders who argue that a loan is a liability, not a financial gain. Rev. Dr. Humphrey Mwangi Waweru, an Anglican theologian, strongly countered this view, suggesting that such teachings border on manipulation. He emphasized that giving should be cheerful and not coerced, warning against pastors who focus on money over spiritual well-being. This sentiment is echoed by many who believe tithing applies to income or profit, not debt that must be repaid with interest.

The controversy touches a raw nerve in a country where household debt is rising amid a challenging economic climate. For many Kenyans, the debate is not merely theological but deeply personal, raising critical questions about financial stewardship and church accountability.

• Pro-Tithe on Loans: Proponents, like Rev. Kahiga, argue it is an expression of faith that God will provide for the repayment.
• Against-Tithe on Loans: Opponents argue that a loan is a debt, not income. Tithing on it, they claim, is financially unsustainable and not scripturally sound.
• The Believer's Dilemma: The public is divided, with some supporting the pastor's view as a spiritual directive, while many others dismiss it as a misinterpretation of scripture designed to increase church collections.

The Kenyan Wallet and the Altar

This clash occurs as many Kenyans navigate financial pressures, often relying on loans from banks and mobile apps to make ends meet. The question of whether to add a 'tithe' on top of these debts is a significant burden. Critics argue that such teachings could push already indebted individuals into deeper financial distress under the guise of religious obligation.

The discussion also revives a long-standing debate on whether tithe should be calculated on gross or net income, a topic that remains a point of contention in many churches. As the digital sermon continues to fuel conversations from pulpits to social media, it is clear that the line between divine instruction and financial prudence is becoming increasingly blurred for many believers across the nation.

Ultimately, as the debate rages, many are calling for clearer guidance from church leadership, rooted in both scripture and the economic realities facing their congregations. As Rev. Waweru noted, the focus should be on worshipping God and helping the poor, not just on monetary contributions.