The sermon surfaced shortly after Atsu was confirmed dead following the devastating earthquake in Turkey, a timing that many found insensitive given his widespread reputation for benevolence.
: Cites giving tithes to "the stranger, the orphan, and the widow" so they may eat and be satisfied.
The sermon sparked significant backlash across social media. Critics pointed to various biblical passages that emphasize caring for the poor: The sermon surfaced shortly after Atsu was confirmed
: Many social media users defended Atsu's legacy, noting that his philanthropy helped free innocent prisoners and supported many families, which they argued is the true essence of religious service.
: The pastor argued that while Atsu was known for his extensive charity work—including visiting hospitals and orphanages—these deeds would not earn him a "heavenly reward" because they were not done through the church. Critics pointed to various biblical passages that emphasize
The social media post refers to a controversial sermon by , the leader of Shiloh Prayer Service in Ghana. In a viral video from February 2023, the pastor claimed that the late Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu should have given his tithes to the church rather than spending them on philanthropy for the poor. Key Points of the Sermon
: Prophet Eliezer insisted that the Bible gives precise instructions for tithes to be brought to the "house of the Lord" (the church) so there is food in His house, rather than being given directly to those on the roadside. Public Reaction In a viral video from February 2023, the
: He stated that "poor people can't save you" and suggested that if Atsu had donated his money to the church instead of "wasting" it on the needy, God might have intervened to save him during the 2023 earthquake in Turkey.